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Very popular in the Art Deco style jewelry, the Asscher cut diamond is the forerunner of today's emerald cut and is sometimes called the square emerald cut. Not widely seen, an Asscher cut engagement ring offers a dazzling old world charm which is experiencing a revival in popularity.
The Asscher cut is named for Joseph Asscher, founder of the Royal Asscher Company, established in Amsterdam in 1854. A world-renown diamond cutter, Joseph created his famous and unique Asscher cut about 1902. Original Asscher cut diamonds are rare and found mostly in estate sales.
Asscher is most famous for his work on the 3,205 carat Cullinan diamond, the largest known diamond in history. British King Edward VII entrusted him with the cutting of the Cullinan which, after about six months of study, Joseph divided into three, each stone flawless.
One of these stones, also known as The Star of Africa, is set into the scepter of Edward VII. It weighs 530.20 carats and has 74 facets. All three stones are now part of the main exhibition of the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London.
One thing that makes the Asscher diamond cut so unique is that there are no absolute standard proportions so each diamond has its one-of-a-kind look. Aside from the obvious square shape and wide beveled corners, what makes the Asscher cut diamond so different is that it also features many parallel step facets which seem to create a pattern throughout the diamond. At the top is a very small facet called the table. The total depth of the Asscher cut needs to be deeper than the more modern emerald cut to accommodate these steps.
These precision cuts add dazzling sparkle to any Asscher cut diamond. Looking directly into the Asscher cut diamond this pattern creates a "Hall of Mirrors" effect or the illusion of an infinite hallway of reflecting mirrors. Precision cutting is extremely important with this cut as it is one is the easiest for seeing flaws and inclusions.
Because of its glittering allure and individuality, the Asscher cut is becoming the ring of choice for today's celebrities. Reese Witherspoon wears a four-carat Asscher cut engagement ring given to her by husband Ryan Philleppee. Likewise Kate Hudson's rock star husband Chris Robinson's choice of engagement ring was a five carat Asscher cut in Art Deco style. And finally, for her appearance at the 73rd annual Academy Awards, actress Sharon Stone chose an 11 carat Royal Asscher cut diamond ring to complete her stunning look.
If you're looking for an engagement ring that expresses your individuality, perfection and brilliance, maybe the sparkling fire of the Asscher cut is the one for you.