Asscher Cut Diamond

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Asscher Cut Diamond – a Square Jewel

 

Every diamond is special, but some, such as the Asscher Cut Diamond, are undoubtedly more special than others.

 

Square cut diamonds are becoming an increasing popular choice for those seeking something other than the traditional round brilliant for their engagement ring or Valentines Day memento.  Although it is rare and often more expensive than similar stones with an alternative cut – or perhaps because of those very qualities – the Asscher cut diamond has a unique appeal all its own.

 

The cut was developed at the start of the 1900s by Joseph Asscher, a third-generation diamond cutter who was already a leading light in the industry who knew only too well that his future reputation depended upon him coming up with something truly world class.

 

By successfully combining various aspects of existing designs – the versatility of the square, the long facets of the Emerald Cut and the soft edges of the Round Brilliant, Asscher managed to exceed the expectations of all those who saw his creation. Immediately popular, the company soon patented the design so that it would forever be associated with his family name.

 

A square with trimmed edges and unique pattern of facets, the Asscher cut diamond is like nothing else on the market. Like all the more unusual cuts, the Asscher cut diamond needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

 

 

Celebrities love the Asscher Cut Diamond

 

The extreme rarity of such cuts along with the premium price they attract means they are popular with celebrities who are on the look out for something out of the ordinary. Kate Hudson, Reese Witherspoon and Kate Beckinsale are just some of the famous names who have received engagement rings featuring an Asscher cut diamond.

 

The design of the cut means that such diamonds are less forgiving in terms of colour and clarity than other designs. This means that stones cut into Asscher diamonds are likely to be closer to colourless and flawless than many others. This too has a significant affect of their value.

 

Having peaked in popularity during the 1920s, the Asscher cut diamond can often be found in antique pieces of jewellery where they will usually attract a price premium of up to 20 per cent.

In 2001, following two years of intensive research and development, a new version of the cut was produced, taking advantage of modern technology to introduce additional facets which increase the amount of brilliance. The move was a response to the increasing popularity of the Princess Cut, another square design, which now rivals the Round Brilliant as the number one choice.

 

The new design is perfectly symmetrical and has to have proportions that fall within strict parameters with every facet is measured for absolute accuracy. Known as the Royal Asscher Cut, it has a high crown with a total of 74 facets compared to the original Asscher which has just 58.

 

Because the design is protected by a worldwide patent, every genuine Asscher cut diamond carries a special mark that can be used to confirm its origins. This can not be see with the naked eye and does not affect the look of the stone but allows purchases to be sure they are buying the real thing.

 

Asscher stones are often bought loose allowing the purchaser to choose their ideal setting. Going down this path also allows the diamond to be more closely inspected to see that if fulfils all the expectations of the eventual wearer. A particular advantage of doing this is that, prior to being set, the true natural beauty of the stone can be viewed from angles that might later be obscured.

 

But rest assured, regardless of the setting, the Asscher cut diamond never loses its ability to dazzle all those who see it.