em·er·ald cut | ˈem-rəld kət
noun
A type of shape and cut, emphasizing long parallel step cuts with clipped corners to create an octagon shape
Emerald cut refers to a specific type of cut for either an emerald or diamond defined by the octagonal shape and long parallel step cuts. Emerald cuts are unique because most other cuts for diamonds especially are brilliant cuts, as opposed to a step cut. The result is a number of smaller rectangular facets on the face of the diamond. The brilliance is a bit more subdued as a result while looking more elegant as a whole. The stones often look larger as well because they have a wider surface area. An emerald-cut gem is most often rectangular but can be found square as well using the same type of technique.
