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What is Step Cut Diamond?

Step cuts have a distinct geometric appearance. Learn about the cut and what to look for when choosing a step cut diamond.

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What are Step Cut Diamonds?

Among the many varieties of diamond cuts, the step cut has emerged as a popular choice for those who seek a unique and striking appearance. Step cut diamonds are different from other diamond cuts in that their facets are arranged in a series of steps, giving them a distinct geometric appearance. If you're considering purchasing a step cut diamond, it's essential to understand the characteristics that make them so special. In this ultimate guide to step cut diamonds, we'll cover everything you need to know about this stunning diamond cut. From the history and design to the different types of step cuts and how to care for your step cut diamond, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a step cut diamond.

A step cut diamond is a type of diamond cut that features linear facets that run parallel to the diamond's girdle. The facets on a step cut diamond are arranged in a series of rectangular or square shapes, giving it a unique geometric appearance. Unlike other diamond cuts, step cut diamonds do not have as much brilliance or fire. Instead, they have a more subdued sparkle that is often referred to as the "hall of mirrors" effect.

Step cut diamonds are typically used for emerald, baguette, and Asscher cuts. They are also commonly used in engagement rings, as they have a unique and bold appearance that is sure to make a statement. One of the benefits of a step cut diamond is that it can often make a diamond appear larger than it is due to its long lines and the way that it reflects light.

History of Step Cut Diamonds

The history of step cut diamonds can be traced back to the 16th century when diamond cutters began experimenting with different ways to cut diamonds. As diamond cutting technology improved, cutters began to experiment with more complex shapes and designs.

The step cut diamond was first introduced in the 1920s during the Art Deco era. This style of diamond cutting became popular in designs featuring geometric shapes and their ability to showcase the beauty of the diamond's natural color. Today, step cut diamonds continue to be a popular choice in engagement rings.

Types of Step Cut Diamonds

There are several different types of step cut diamonds, each with its unique characteristics and design. The most popular types of step cut diamonds include:

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Step Cut Diamonds

Like any diamond cut, there are both
advantages and disadvantages to choosing a step cut diamond. Some of the
advantages of step cut diamonds include:

Unique and striking appearance
Can make a diamond appear larger than it is
Less prone to chipping than other types of diamond cuts
Often used in vintage and antique iewelry

However, there are also some disadvantages to choosing a step cut diamond, including:

Less brilliance and fire than other types of diamond cuts
More visible inclusions
Can be more expensive than other types of diamond cuts due to the complexity of the cutting process

What to Consider When Buying Step Cut Diamonds

If you're considering purchasing a step cut diamond, there are several factors to keep in mind. One of the most important factors is the quality of the diamond's cut. Step cut diamonds require a high level of skill and precision to cut properly, so it's essential to choose a diamond that has been cut by an experienced and reputable diamond cutter.

In addition to the quality of the cut, you'll also want to consider the diamond's color, clarity, and carat weight. Step cut diamonds tend to highlight a diamond's natural color, so it's essential to choose a diamond with a high-quality color grade. Clarity is also important, as step cut diamonds tend to have more visible inclusions than other types of diamond cuts. Finally, you'll want to choose a carat weight that fits your budget and personal preferences.

Step Cut Diamond Grading

Like all diamonds, step cut diamonds are graded based on the "four Cs" cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The cut of a step cut diamond is especially important, as it can have a significant impact on the diamond's overall appearance. The color of a step cut diamond is also important, as step cut diamonds tend to showcase a diamond's natural color more than other types of diamond cuts.

About Diamond Color

Clarity is another important factor to consider when grading a step cut diamond. Step cut diamonds tend to have more visible inclusions than other types of diamond cuts, so it's essential to choose a diamond with a high clarity grade. Finally, carat weight is also important, as it can have a significant impact on the cost of the diamond.

About Diamond Clarity

Diamond Grading

The report identified the diamond's proportions, shape and cutting style, measurements, and the 4C's.

About the 4C's

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WHICH DIAMOND SHAPE LOOKS THE BIGEST?

Due to their higher sparkle, brilliant cut diamonds can appear larger than step cut diamonds. The spread of the table makes some brilliant cut shapes appear larger than others; marquise, oval, and pear diamonds appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BRILLIANT CUT, modified Brilliant Cut, AND STEP CUT DIAMONDS?

The only diamond shape to receive a ‘cut grade’ are round brilliant cut diamonds. A modified brilliant cut is a brilliant cut diamond that has been altered from the traditional round shape. ‘Brilliant cut’ diamonds are designed to exude the most sparkle. Step cuts feature larger, parallel facets that celebrate the clarity of the stone with more subtle flashes of light

About BRILLIANT Cut DIAMONDS

Which diamond shape is the most sparkly?

The round brilliant diamond is the most sparkly when graded triple Excellent (GIA) or Ideal (IGI). The diamond will have the optimal cut, symmetry, and polish. Multiple lines of symmetry and 58 facets work together to reflect light within and out of the diamond, making the round brilliant the sparkliest diamond shape. Typically, round brilliant diamonds are the most expensive diamond cuts, due to three factors; their unmatched brilliance, popularity, and the amount of diamond waste generated during cutting Round brilliants are the most popular shapes.

Which diamond shape is the rarest?

It is more difficult to find some diamond shapes than others. The demand for asscher diamonds and radiant diamonds is much lower than for other diamond shapes, making them rarer than most diamond cuts. They are followed closely by marquise and hearts.

What diamond shape is the most popular?

Due to many of the reasons already stated, the round brilliant diamond continues to be the most popular diamond shape in the United States. Followed by oval diamonds, pear diamonds, emerald cut diamonds, and cushion cut diamonds.