What is the Most Expensive Emerald Cut?

Emeralds are one of the most valued gemstones in the world of jewelry, known for their intense green color and dazzling brilliance. However, the value of an emerald is not only determined by its purity and color but also by the type of cut it has received.

In this article, we will explore what an emerald cut is, the different types of cuts that exist, and which are the five most expensive emerald cuts and why.

What is an Emerald Cut?

The cut of an emerald refers to the way the stone has been shaped and faceted. This process is crucial as it determines how light interacts with the emerald, directly affecting its brilliance and beauty. A good cut can highlight the depth of color and clarity of the stone, while a poor cut can diminish its value.

Types of Emerald Cuts

There are several types of cuts used for emeralds, each with its own characteristics and benefits. The most common include:

1. Emerald Cut: This is the most classic and popular cut for emeralds. It has a rectangular shape with trimmed corners and a series of facets on the sides, which allows for maximizing color and minimizing inclusions.

2. Oval Cut: This cut is ideal for highlighting the purity and uniform color of the emerald. Its elongated shape and well-distributed facets increase the brilliance and elegance of the stone.

3. Round Cut: Although less common in emeralds due to its tendency to show inclusions, this cut can be stunning when done correctly, offering exceptional brilliance and fire.

4. Pear Cut: With a teardrop shape, this cut is perfect for pendants and rings. It is appreciated for its ability to make the emerald appear larger than it is.

5. Heart Cut: This is a romantic and rare cut for emeralds, standing out in custom and high-end jewelry pieces.

6. Marquise Cut: Also known as navette, this cut has an elliptical shape with pointed ends. It is popular because it can make the stone appear larger and elongated and is highly appreciated in rings and pendants.

7. Square Cut (or Princess Cut): This cut has a square or rectangular shape with brilliant facets that maximize the brilliance. It is less common in emeralds, but when found, it can be very valuable.

8. Asscher Cut: Similar to the emerald cut but with more facets, giving it more brilliance. It has a square shape with trimmed corners and is highly appreciated for its vintage and elegant style.

9. Radiant Cut: Combines elements of the emerald cut and the brilliant cut, with a rectangular or square shape and trimmed corners. It has additional facets to maximize brilliance, making it very attractive.

10. Triangular Cut (or Trillion Cut): This cut has a triangular shape with curved or straight edges and is known for its ability to maximize the brilliance and color of the emerald. It is ideal for modern and avant-garde pieces.

11. Cabochon Cut: Unlike faceted cuts, the cabochon is a smooth, polished cut without facets. It is ideal for showcasing emeralds with rich color and deep inclusions that would be less attractive in a faceted cut.

12. Cushion Cut: It has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and large facets that highlight the brilliance and clarity of the stone. This cut is classic and timeless, suitable for high-quality emeralds.

The 5 Most Expensive Emerald Cuts and Why

1. Emerald Cut: This cut remains the most expensive and appreciated due to its ability to highlight the color and clarity of the emerald. Its classic and elegant design makes it highly desired in the high jewelry market.

2. Oval Cut: Emeralds with an oval cut tend to be very costly due to their rarity and how this cut maximizes the brilliance and uniform color of the stone.

3. Pear Cut: This cut is especially expensive for high-quality emeralds because of its ability to make the stone appear larger and more dazzling, increasing its appeal.

4. Heart Cut: The rarity and difficulty of achieving a perfect heart cut make these emeralds extremely valuable. Additionally, their romantic appeal increases their demand.

5. Round Cut: Although less common, the round cut in high-quality emeralds can reach high prices due to its exceptional brilliance and fire, being highly sought after by collectors and lovers of high jewelry.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national high jewelry.

Currently, she is working for one of Bogotá's most important jewelry stores, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has 2 physical branches in the capital city of Colombia, located in the city center.