What Is an Asscher Cut Diamond?
The asscher cut — also the square emerald cut — is a square step-cut diamond developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Amsterdam. 58 large facets in concentric squares with deeply cropped corners give the signature hall-of-mirrors effect rather than concentrated brilliance. A signature Art Deco shape; the patented 74-facet Royal Asscher arrived in 2001.
- Best ratio — 1.00–1.05 for the most flattering square outline.
- Clarity is critical — large open step facets reveal inclusions; we recommend VS2 minimum, VS1+ above 1.50ct.
Why ATL Luxury Jewelry for Your Asscher Cut Engagement Ring
Center stones over half a carat come with a GIA report (natural) or an IGI report (lab-grown). We pay particular attention to clarity and color, which matter more for step cuts than brilliant cuts — and source both natural and lab-grown stones across the full quality spectrum, including genuine certified Royal Asscher stones on request. Every ring includes lifetime cleaning and prong-tightening. We also custom-design matching diamond wedding bands and ring enhancers sized to nest perfectly with asscher engagement rings.
Asscher Cut Diamond Rings by Carat — 1ct, 2ct, 3ct, 5ct

- 1 carat — ~5.5mm × 5.5mm; the entry size where the concentric step-cut geometry is clearly readable.
- 2 carat — ~7mm × 7mm; substantial presence with the hall-of-mirrors effect at its most striking.
- 3 carat — ~8mm × 8mm; makes a statement.
- 5 carat — ~10mm × 10mm; dominates the finger with classic art-deco impact.
All sizes come in natural and lab-grown. Lab-grown asscher cut diamonds typically cost 50–70% less than natural stones of equivalent grade — making larger sizes (3ct+) significantly more attainable. We source stones at your target carat, clarity, color, and length-to-width ratio for you to see in person.
Asscher Cut Engagement Rings by Metal — Gold, Platinum, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold

Metal choice matters especially for asscher cuts because the step faceting shows the metal color through its open facets. Available in 14K or 18K gold (white, yellow, rose) and platinum — 18K offers richer color saturation than 14K.
- Platinum & white gold — the period-correct art-deco pairings; cool, architectural, emphasize the geometry and pair seamlessly with colorless (D–F) centers. Platinum is the historically authentic choice (1920s originals were set in platinum for delicate millgrain and filigree).
- Yellow gold — vintage Edwardian warmth; harmonizes with slightly warmer (G–J) diamonds while masking subtle warmth.
- Rose gold — a romantic contemporary twist on the classic art-deco silhouette.
Asscher Cut Setting Styles
The cropped corners of an asscher cut eliminate the chipping vulnerability that princess cuts have — but the open step facets demand setting choices that frame, rather than overwhelm, the architectural geometry. The most enduring options:
- Four-prong solitaire — one prong at each cropped corner — the classic art-deco look that emphasizes the asscher’s square symmetry. Often paired with a thin polished platinum band for maximum period authenticity.
- Bezel — a continuous platinum or gold rim follows the asscher’s octagonal silhouette. The most secure setting style, with a sleek modern aesthetic that works beautifully in both period and contemporary contexts.
- Three-stone with baguette or trapezoid side stones — the truly period-correct art-deco pairing. Baguette step-cut side stones echo the asscher’s faceting; trapezoids complement the cropped corners. Browse three stone rings.
- Halo — a pavé diamond halo enhances the asscher’s geometric symmetry and adds significant visual size. Particularly striking in white gold or platinum. Browse halo settings.
- Hidden halo — a ring of small diamonds tucked under the asscher center stone, invisible from above but sparkling from the side profile. A modern signature look that adds dimension without disrupting the art-deco geometry. Browse hidden halo.
Related Collections
Emerald Cut Engagement Rings
The asscher’s rectangular cousin — same step cuts, elongated silhouette.
Princess Cut Engagement Rings
The other major square diamond cut — brilliant faceting, sharp corners.
Cushion Cut Engagement Rings
A pillow-soft square brilliant — romantic alternative to the geometric asscher.
Vintage & Art Deco Engagement Rings
The asscher is the defining art-deco diamond cut. Explore the full vintage collection.
Three Stone Engagement Rings
Asscher three-stones with baguette flanks are the iconic art-deco pairing.
Diamond Wedding Bands
Baguette eternity and straight diamond bands designed to nest with asscher engagement rings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Our Atlanta Showroom
See Asscher Cut Engagement Rings in Person
Our Snellville showroom — minutes from Atlanta, Lawrenceville, and Stone Mountain — carries a curated selection of asscher cut center stones and finished engagement rings. Book a private consultation, or call us to source a specific asscher diamond (including genuine Royal Asscher certified stones) for you to see in person.
1905 Scenic Hwy N Ste 230, Snellville, GA 30078 · (704) 684-7530
