Who and What Is Asscher?
The Asscher brothers of Amsterdam first created the Asscher cut diamond in 1902. The brothers were renowned lapidaries, cutting some of the most exquisite gems in the world. They cut the world famous 3,015 carat Cullinan Diamond which is a part of the British Crown Jewels.
Asscher diamonds were extremely popular in art deco engagement rings during the 1920s. Unfortunately, the facility shut down in 1930 due to the Great Depression. They re-opened their doors in 1945 designing the Asscher cut for rings and other jewelry. Finding vintage Asscher cut engagement rings from that era would be an extraordinary find in deed!
What Are Asscher Cut Engagement Rings?
Asscher stones offer an extremely distinctive, unique shape which is square with deeply cut corners similar to an octagon. This cut is sometimes referred to as the Emerald Cut although it’s not your classic emerald cut.
How Are Asscher Cuts Created?
When looking deeply into the stone, the cut appears like a hall of mirrors. This effect is created by the stone’s unique cut which consists of a series of parallel steps. These steps cause an internal refraction and creating a diamond fire that is not present in a typical cut stone.
How Will I Know Asscher Cut Engagement Rings?
The Asscher cut diamond is exclusively patented and every genuine Asscher diamond has the Asscher insignia, along with a unique identification number, emblazon directly on the stone’s girdle. These marks may only be seen with high magnification. A jeweler should be able to show a potential buyer these marks in order to verify the diamonds authenticity.
Asscher Cut Engagement Rings: The Basics
This exquisite cut was redesigned and re-patented in 2001, in order to make counterfeiting more difficult. Most stones today have smaller corners and larger central tables (the flat top of the diamond).
Sixteen additional facets were incorporated for the increase of sparkle. The modern Asscher has 74 facets per stone. Adding a deep slice or cutlet at the base of both modern and vintage Asschers, emphasizing the depth of the stone and drawing one’s eye into the gem.
Vintage Asscher Cut Engagement Rings
Vintage engagement rings feature a heavier beveled corners affecting the Asscher diamond’s appearance. Because of advanced technology, older rings will not have the same precisions in cutting that modern pieces do. Modern rings will offer a higher sparkle because of added facets.
Those interested in finding an Asscher cut antique ring might luck out at estate sales or visiting antique shops.
The Quality of Diamond
Precise cutting is vital for quality in an Asscher diamond. Flaws are easily visible, such as in the emerald cuts, therefore choosing a quality stone is critical. High quality color and clarity should be first and foremost in order to receive the best effects.
As Asscher cuts are deeper than common cuts, many Asscher diamonds are somewhat smaller for easier cuts. Those interested in larger diamonds, the Asscher cut might not be an economically sound choice. The uniqueness of the cut and the intricacy will always outweigh the size of the stone for an exceptional look — even with smaller stones.
Every Asscher stones are certified through the Gemological Institute of America and/or the High Council of Diamonds in Belgium and Antwerp. Any jeweler offering an Asscher stone without certification is probably offering an counterfeit, so stay away from!
Settings
The Asscher diamond works best with the four-prong settings. As step cut diamonds don’t reflect as much light, the prong setting elevates the stone for more lighting. Other gems work well with accent stones and the like, but the Asscher diamond is so incredibly stunning, additional adornments are not needed and look amazing on their own.
Celebrities and Asscher Cut Engagement Rings
Many celebrities have chosen asscher cut as their choice for an engagement ring. Take a look at the beautiful possibilities from celebs to give you inspiration:
