HISTORIAL INSIGHTS

The Emerald-Cut Diamond: A Collector’s Guide to Timeless Elegance

Discover the history, style, and celebrity legacy of emerald-cut diamonds. Learn what makes emerald-cut engagement rings timeless and shop collector-worthy emerald-cut jewelry at Jewels by Grace.

What Is an Emerald-Cut Diamond?

The emerald-cut diamond is beloved for its elongated shape, step-cut facets, and large tablet hat gives off a mesmerizing “hall of mirrors” effect. Unlike brilliant cuts (round or princess) that maximize sparkle, the emerald cut focuses on clarity, color, and elegant geometry. It’s no wonder collectors and brides alike fall in love with its quiet sophistication.

A Brief History of the Emerald Cut

The story of the emerald cut goes way back to the 16th century, when clever gem cutters needed a shape for emeralds that wouldn’t chip so easily. Enter the step cut—practical and beautiful! Eventually, this style made its way to diamonds, and the rest is sparkling history. By the 1920s and 30s, the emerald cut became synonymous with Art Deco jewelry, influencing many antique emerald cut jewelry designs. The symmetry and clean lines of the Art Deco emerald cut suited Deco style perfectly. By 1940, the proportions of emerald cut diamonds were fully standardized.

Why Emerald Cuts Are So Special

  1. Clarity First – With fewer facets, inclusions and color are more visible, making clarity a top priority.
  2. Bigger Look – Thanks to that wide table, emerald cuts often look larger than other diamonds of the same carat weight.
  3. Elegant Style – Minimalist, refined, and forever chic. Perfect for vintage lovers and modern minimalists alike.
  4. Each emerald cut has its own little personality—no two are ever quite the same, and every stone has its own depth and charm.

Famous Emerald-Cut Diamonds in History

  • Grace Kelly’s Engagement Ring – A 10.48-carat Cartier emerald cut flanked by baguettes, gifted by Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956. It remains one of the most iconic engagement rings of all time.
  • Amal Clooney – Her 7-carat emerald cut engagement ring with tapered baguettes echoes Grace Kelly’s timeless style.
  • Paris Hilton – Known as The Paris, her 20-carat emerald cut diamond ring is a modern show-stopper.
  • Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Beyoncé, and Eva Longoria have also sported emerald-cut engagement rings.

Historic gems include theUncle Sam Diamond(12.42-carat emerald cut) and theGraff Pink(24.78-carat emerald cut fancy pink diamond).

Collectible Emerald-Cut Jewelry at Jewels by Grace

At JbyG, we hand-pick every emerald-cut engagement ring and band—each one has that special something collectors crave.

  • Emerald-cut diamond bands – perfect for stacking or worn solo for a sleek, minimalist look.
  • Vintage emerald-cut rings – antique styles with halos, baguette accents, or rose-gold settings.
  • Statement emerald cuts – large stones that command attention while keeping that understated elegance.

Tips for Choosing the Right Emerald Cut

  • Clarity over carat: Step cuts reveal imperfections, so prioritize clarity.
  • Length-to-width ratio: Classic emerald cuts fall between 1.3–1.5; choose what flatters your hand.
  • Setting matters! Protect those corners with prongs or a bezel, and if you love that Deco vibe, add some baguette side stones for extra flair.
  • Daily care: Keep it clean—fingerprints show more easily on that big open table.

Why Collectors Love Emerald Cuts

Emerald cuts are that rare breed—vintage and modern, glamorous and refined, all at once. From Grace Kelly to Beyoncé, this cut is all about lasting style and true taste, not passing trends. It’s the diamond for those who love craftsmanship and timeless beauty.

Favorite Emerald Cuts in Our Collection