What cut is that? - The Asscher cut

Asscher cut is the name given to a particular square, step cut diamond with clipped corners.

They feature large, step cut facets, mimicking a 'hall of mirrors' style. The stunning lines of symmetry draw the eye down into the centre of the stone. If you look straight down on the Asscher cut diamond, it reveals an X shape made by converging equidistant facets, down to the bottom of the stone.

Its a stand-out diamond shape, both sophisticated and top quality - Asscher cuts need a very good high clarity stone to start with before cutting as these facets show any hint of colour or inclusion. 

Fans of its clean lines and modern look will be surprised to learn It was created over a century ago in 1902.  It took some time to gain favour in the tradition diamond market but found its niche in the roaring 1920s, with the rich and famous during the Art Deco era. 

So, if all other diamonds are named after their basic shapes; why is this one called an Asscher cut?
It was invented by legendary diamond cutter Joseph Asscher, -founder of I J Asscher Diamond Company (now the Royal Asscher Diamond Company).  They were exceptional diamond cutters based in Amsterdam and known for cutting some of the worlds most prestigious diamonds, such as the Cullinan diamond. This started at at a whopping 3,106 carats, then when on to be split into nine stones, the largest of which makes part of our Crown Jewels. 

I J Asscher Diamond Company caused a stir in the diamond world by patenting the Asscher cut diamond, from 1902 right up until just after world war II. No diamond cut had ever been under a patent before. The traditional Asscher cut design is no longer patented, though the company's Royal Asscher cut is - this has over 70 facets compared to the Asscher cut’s 50/58 facets.

Until fairly recently, the Asscher shape wasn't well known to the buying public and had an ‘exclusive’ status - as it wasn't generally available in stores. They make up less than 4% of all the cut diamonds in the world. We think they are stunning, breathtaking diamonds, and deserve to be the very centre of your jewellery collection! We can source Asscher cut diamonds for you and create a bespoke piece based on your requirements. Please contact us to speak to a diamond expert today.