Asscher Cut Diamonds

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The first diamond cutters guilds were formed in Antwerp in the 1300s, when the diamond cutting More than 550 years later and less than fifty miles away, Asscher diamonds - one of the more unique diamond shapes – came into existence.

Asscher cut diamonds were the creation of two brothers working in a lapidary in Amsterdam just after the turn of the twentieth century. Asscher diamonds share some features in common with rectangular “emerald cut” diamonds (and in fact are sometimes classified as “square emerald cut”), but whereas the traditional emerald cut diamond has a wide flat face or “table” surrounded by a few narrow ridges, or “steps,” Asscher diamonds have more, wider steps. In fact, it is the stepped design as well as the more equilateral square or octagonal shape (traditional emerald cuts are more elongated) that define and identify Asscher cut diamonds.

Vintage Appeal

Art Deco was a movement in architecture, décor and fashion that was inspired by technology and the Machine Age, characterized by clean, minimalist lines and streamlined contours (in fact, the first streamlined cars and passenger trains were inspired by Art Deco).

It should come as no surprise that Asscher diamonds were quite popular during this period, along with emerald cut gems. Such diamond shapes were found in many engagement rings in the years following the First World War.

Fire and Brilliance

The main difference between emerald cuts and Asscher cut diamonds is in the trimmed corners and steps that create facets. While emerald diamonds have a quiet, sophisticated appeal that emphasizes the gem’s clarity, these diamond shapes have little sparkle. With more wide, parallel steps, elaborately trimmed corners and bevels, Asscher diamonds display more of what jewelers call “fire” and “brilliance” – the reflected light that makes round cut diamonds sparkle.

On the other hand, this particular cut also creates a hypnotic effect, like gazing into multiple mirrors. Asscher cut diamonds truly offer the best of both worlds.

Make Sure They’re the Real Thing

Asscher cut diamonds were not produced between 1930 and 1945 owing to a global economic slowdown and the invasion of the Netherlands by Germany. After the Allied victory in 1945 however, the Asscher family rebuilt their business and have continued to produce their unique diamonds for the past six decades.

The Asscher family has since patented this unique diamond cut; therefore, every genuine Asscher diamond will have a serial number and the family crest emblazoned on a hidden part of the stone. This watermark is impossible to see with the unaided eye, but should be visible to a professional jeweler using magnification.

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