HISTORIAL INSIGHTS

Asscher Cuts: The Vintage Romance Your Jewelry Box Has Been Dreaming Of

Explore the captivating charm of Asscher Cut diamonds, celebrated for their unique octagonal shape and mesmerizing light play. Discover how this vintage cut, with its geometric elegance, continues to enchant with its timeless appeal.

Introduction
If you’ve ever found yourself swooning over jewelry that feels like it belongs in a sepia-toned film, let’s talk about Asscher cuts. These diamonds don’t shout—they simply glow with a soft, quiet confidence. Born in the early 1900s, they’re the epitome of vintage charm: structured, geometric, and completely captivating.

The Story Behind the Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut first sparkled to life in 1902, thanks to Joseph Asscher, a master cutter from Holland. If his name sounds familiar, it’s for good reason—he was the trusted hands behind the legendary Cullinan diamond,the largest gem-quality diamond ever found). Talk about credibility!Here’s what sets this cut apart and makes us fall in love every time:

  • Shape: A deliciously square silhouette with softly cropped corners, giving it that dreamy octagonal look
  • Facets: 58 bold, step-like facets that ripple in concentric squares—like a hall of mirrors you could get lost in
  • Table & Crown: A petite table and a lofty crown, even higher than an emerald cut, which gives the Asscher its signature, mesmerizing play of light

Asschers truly had their moment in the Art Deco era—picture geometric skylines, perfect symmetry, the shimmer of jazz, and all the glitz of flapper nights. The Asscher was made for this world.

Asscher Cut vs Emerald Cut

These two cuts are like close cousins—both step cuts, but each with its own distinct personality and sparkle.

Shape – Rectangular with long lines. Square with cropped corners

Light Play – Elegant flashes along broad facets. Bold, dramatic “hall of mirrors” effect

Imperfections – Requires high clarity but slightly more forgiving. Even more revealing of inclusions and color

Style – Sleek, modern, minimal. Vintage, Art Deco, architectural

Famous Emerald Cut Diamonds That Set the Standard

To understand the Asscher’s place, you’ve got to see its sibling shine. Emerald cut diamonds have been the choice of icons for decades:

Grace Kelly – A Cartier emerald cut engagement ring, 10.48 carats, gifted by Prince Rainier III of Monaco. A fairytale classic.

Beyoncé – A jaw-dropping 24-carat flawless emerald cut engagement ring from Jay-Z. Regal and powerful.

Amal Clooney – A 7-carat emerald cut diamond set in platinum with tapered baguettes. Sophisticated and modern.

Paris Hilton – The “Paris” ring, an emerald cut center with baguette and trapezoid sides — extravagant and bold.

These rings prove just how much presence step cuts have—whether it’s an emerald or an Asscher, they always steal the show.

Why Collectors & Brides Love Asscher Cuts Today

Asschers are for the detail-obsessed, the lovers of history, and anyone who wants something a little different. Here’s why we’re seeing them everywhere again:

  • Vintage appeal: Strong Art Deco associations make them irresistible to antique jewelry lovers.
  • Architectural beauty: Bold geometry, perfect symmetry, refined elegance.
  • Statement piece: Not as sparkly as brilliants, but with so much more depth, drama, and that cool, sophisticated vibe.
  • Perfect in vintage settings: Halos, bezels, baguette flanks, or intricate Art Deco details.

Pro Tip:Asschers are honest little stones—they show everything. Go forclarity (VS2 or better)and goodcolor. A well-cut, clean Asscher is absolutely jaw-dropping in real life.

How to Choose the Right Asscher Cut Ring

  • Clarity first: VS1–VS2 or better keeps things crisp and clean—no hiding with these cuts.
  • Color matters: Warmer tones peek through more than in brilliants, so pick what makes your heart happy.
  • Cut quality: Symmetry, polish, and depth are critical — they make or break the hall-of-mirrors magic.
  • Carat size illusion: Asschers tend to look smaller face-up than round or oval diamonds of the same weight — consider upsizing slightly.
  • Settings to love: Art Deco halos, bezel frames, baguette or trapezoid side stones
Whether you’re drawn to emerald cut diamonds with their sleek elegance, or fall hard for the vintage drama of Asscher cuts, both offer history, sophistication, and undeniable presence. The right choice isn’t about trends — it’s about what makesyourheart skip a beat.

Favorite Asscher Cuts in Our Collection