Asscher Loose Diamonds
Asscher Loose Diamonds History
The Asscher loose diamond cut was introduced in 1902, by the Asscher brothers. It is sometimes called the "square emerald cut" because it has the basic shape of emerald loose diamonds, but with cropped corners. Asscher Loose Diamond stones usually have 72 facets that are particularly wide and deeply clipped, creating an almost octagonal shape. Because of the position of the light, the diamond seems to glitter in "Hall of Mirrors Effect" that looks quite breathtaking, especially with high quality loose diamonds with very good clarity.
Asscher Loose Diamonds are the New and Trendy Shape for Engagement Rings
There was a time when Asscher loose diamonds where very rare, because of the small demand for them. But one episode of the hit series Sex & the City, and Kate Hudson receiving an Asscher cut engagement ring, made this diamond shape the talk of the town.
As brides rushed to the stores to ask for an Asscher cut diamond ring, the industry began making more and more designs. It is now considered the ring to have not as classic as the round loose diamonds or the princess cut loose diamonds, but nevertheless considered a very trendy piece of jewelry to own.
Asscher Loose Diamonds Design Considerations
Asscher Loose diamonds are generally smaller than the other kinds of cuts, and thus tend to flatter women with slender fingers (unless the design itself has "weight", such as when several loose diamonds are clustered or combined with other gems).
However, the dramatic cut of the Asscher loose diamond makes it a good stone to use as a solitaire, in a very simple setting that will show off the dramatic light and form.
But it's important to get very high quality loose diamonds if you plan to use an Asscher cut. It should have at least a "good" rating for cut, and "I" grade color. Ideally clarity should reach SI1, with a depth percentage of 67% to 72%. The table should fall within the ideal range of 54% to 61%.
To keep Asscher loose diamonds securely in place, it is necessary to use four-pronged settings.
Antique Asscher Diamonds
There have been various modifications of the Asscher design over the centuries. For example, the classic or traditional Asscher also called the Royal Asscher is cut in such a way to bring the eye to the heart or center of the stone. These follow very specific measurements and have a distinct look that marks them as antiques. They are usually octagonal with beveled corners, with a particularly deep crown and pavilion. This helps create what has been dubbed "The Hall of Mirrors Effect".
The antique Asscher loose diamonds jewelry can command a very high price today, not only because of the historical value, but the demand for vintage. These pieces are often seen worn by celebrities at red carpet events, and often appear in the haute couture fashion spreads in magazines. Many celebrities have also chosen the Asscher loose diamond cut for their engagement rings. These include Reese Witherspoon (4.5 carats) and Kate Hudson (5 carats). Kate's ring, given by rock star Chris Robinson, was designed by the famous jeweler, Neil Lane.
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