When it comes to selecting a diamond that embodies both timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship, the Royal Asscher Cut and the Royal Asscher Emerald Cut stand as two of the most distinguished step-cut designs in the world. Both originate from the Royal Asscher heritage, a legacy spanning over 170 years, and while they may share a foundation in step-cut geometry, their personalities, aesthetics, and brilliance differ in meaningful and inspiring ways.
Royal Asscher Cut
The Royal Asscher Cut is an evolution of the original Asscher Cut invented by Joseph Asscher in 1902. It was reimagined and patented by the Asscher family in 2001, introducing a new standard of precision with 74 beautifully proportioned facets. This square-shaped diamond features clipped corners and a deep crown that intensifies light reflection, producing the iconic “hall of mirrors” effect.
The Royal Asscher Cut is bold, symmetrical, and brilliantly engineered for maximum fire. It is a cut deeply associated with history, from royal commissions to legendary diamonds like the Cullinan, and is ideal for those who appreciate architectural elegance with vintage soul.
Royal Asscher Emerald
In contrast, the Royal Asscher Emerald Cut offers a more contemporary perspective. Designed by Mike Asscher, this rectangular step-cut diamond has 81 facets, including seven on the pavilion to deepen its visual dimension. The elongated silhouette provides a sleek and refined profile that appeals to those drawn to clean lines and understated glamour.
The Royal Asscher Emerald Cut may reflect light more subtly than its square counterpart, but its depth and clarity offer a mesmerizing visual journey, like a “hall of mirrors” with a modern accent.
So, What’s the Difference Between the Royal Asscher Cut and the Royal Asscher Emerald?
From a technical standpoint, both cuts are masterclasses in balance and symmetry. While the Royal Asscher Cut emphasizes intense fire and optical depth within a compact square frame, the Royal Asscher Emerald Cut version uses its extended length to create a more graceful visual flow across the finger. This makes the emerald variation particularly flattering on wider or shorter hands, as it subtly elongates the appearance of the fingers. For those comparing carat sizes, it's worth noting that a rectangular diamond often appears larger than a square of the same weight, due to its greater surface area — meaning a 1.5 carat Royal Asscher Emerald cut diamond ring can look slightly more prominent than a 1.5 carat Royal Asscher Cut.
Stylistically, the Royal Asscher Cut pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired settings, halo designs, or classic solitaires, offering a bold yet balanced presence. The Royal Asscher Emerald Cut, on the other hand, shines in sleek solitaires, east-west settings, and modern engagement ring styles that highlight its linear elegance. Both cuts are rare, but off course the Royal Asscher Cut is based on the original design that was invented by the Asscher family itself, then and now, making it one of the most distinguished diamonds available today.
Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to your aesthetic preference. If you’re drawn to a diamond that delivers radiant brilliance with historical prestige, the Royal Asscher Cut is the perfect match. But if your taste leans toward minimalist sophistication and modern design, the Royal Asscher Emerald Cut offers a timeless alternative.
Whichever cut you choose, you are not just selecting a diamond — you are becoming part of a legacy. At Royal Asscher, each stone we craft carries the precision, innovation, and integrity that have defined our name since 1854.