The Santorini
Specifications
Why We Love Asscher Cut Diamonds
Asscher, or square emerald, is a step cut diamond. Their large step facets, higher crown, and smaller table allow them to produce more brilliance than their emerald cut counterparts. The cropped corners give the Asscher cut a somewhat octagonal shape.
The Art Deco Icon
Asscher cut diamonds are the epitome of Art Deco elegance. Created in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland, this distinctive square step cut features a mesmerizing "hall-of-mirrors" effect combined with exceptional brilliance. The Asscher cut's geometric beauty and vintage charm make it perfect for those seeking sophisticated, timeless style.
Why Choose Asscher Cut Diamonds?
Art Deco Elegance
Asscher cuts embody 1920s glamour with their geometric, symmetrical design. They're the ultimate vintage-inspired choice.
Unique Brilliance
The higher crown and smaller table create more brilliance than emerald cuts while maintaining the elegant step-cut aesthetic. You get both sparkle and sophistication.
Octagonal Shape
The cropped corners create a distinctive octagonal appearance that's both elegant and practical (corners are less prone to chipping).
Mesmerizing Depth
The concentric square facets create an infinite "hall-of-mirrors" effect that draws the eye into the diamond's depths.
Asscher Cut Characteristics
Shape
Square with deeply cropped corners, creating an octagonal outline. Typically 1.00-1.05 length-to-width ratio for perfect square appearance.
Facet Pattern
Step-cut facets arranged in concentric squares. Original Asscher cuts have 58 facets; Royal Asscher cuts (modern version) have 74 facets for increased brilliance.
Crown & Table
Higher crown and smaller table than emerald cuts, creating more brilliance and fire while maintaining the step-cut elegance.
Pavilion
Deeper pavilion than emerald cuts, contributing to the mesmerizing depth and brilliance.
Asscher Cut Quality Factors
Clarity - Critical
Like emerald cuts, the large step facets make inclusions highly visible. For Asscher cuts, prioritize clarity:
- VS2 or higher strongly recommended
- VS1 or VVS2 ideal for best appearance
- The step cuts create a window into the diamond's interior
Color
Step cuts can show color more easily. Consider G color or higher for white gold/platinum settings, or embrace warmer tones in yellow/rose gold.
Cut Quality
Look for excellent symmetry—critical for Asscher cuts. The concentric square facets must be perfectly aligned to create the mesmerizing effect.
Length-to-Width Ratio
1.00-1.05 for perfect square appearance. Ratios outside this range will appear rectangular rather than square.
Asscher Cut History
Created in 1902 by Joseph Asscher of the renowned Asscher Diamond Company in Amsterdam. The cut gained fame when Joseph Asscher was chosen to cleave the legendary 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond in 1908.
Asscher cuts reached peak popularity during the Art Deco era (1920s-1930s) and experienced a revival in the early 2000s. Today, they're beloved for their vintage charm and distinctive appearance.
In 2001, the Asscher family introduced the Royal Asscher cut—a modified version with 74 facets for increased brilliance while maintaining the classic Asscher aesthetic.
Asscher vs. Emerald Cut
Shape
Asscher: Square with cropped corners (octagonal)
Emerald: Rectangular with cut corners
Brilliance
Asscher: Higher crown, smaller table = more brilliance
Emerald: Larger table = more emphasis on clarity
Facet Pattern
Asscher: Concentric squares creating infinite depth
Emerald: Parallel rows creating hall-of-mirrors
Overall Effect
Asscher: More sparkle, vintage Art Deco appeal
Emerald: More elegant, elongated sophistication
Best Settings for Asscher Cuts
Solitaire
Classic four-prong or bezel setting showcases the Asscher's geometric beauty.
Halo
Surrounded by smaller diamonds for Art Deco glamour and added sparkle.
Three-Stone
Flanked by trapezoid or baguette diamonds for vintage elegance.
Bezel Setting
Modern bezel complements the Asscher's geometric lines while protecting corners.
Asscher Cut Diamond Care
- Clean regularly with warm water and mild soap
- Safe for ultrasonic and steam cleaners
- Cropped corners make Asscher cuts durable for everyday wear
- Professional inspection annually to check prongs
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Swiss Craftsmanship
Our Asscher cut diamond jewelry is handcrafted in Switzerland by master artisans who understand the precision required to showcase these geometric gems. Settings are designed to protect the corners while maximizing the mesmerizing step-cut effect.
Perfect For
- Art Deco and vintage-inspired aesthetics
- Those seeking sophisticated, geometric elegance
- Engagement rings with distinctive character
- Those who love emerald cuts but want more brilliance
- Showcasing exceptionally clear diamonds
- Unique, conversation-piece jewelry
View Asscher cut engagement rings or contact us to create a custom Asscher cut piece.
Payments Plans
Installment payments are available for Swiss residents, with 0% interest on purchases up to CHF 5,000 at checkout. For higher-value pieces, please contact us to arrange a personalized payment plan.