Asscher cut diamonds are square step cut diamonds that include a flat table, large step facets, an octagon shape, large crown, and cropped corners. If you like the look of emerald, princess, and cushion cut diamonds, then the Asscher cut diamond may be perfect for you.

One of the newer shapes, the Asscher cut was created by Joseph Asscher in 1902. The popularity of the cut really took off in the 1920s when the Art Deco movement emerged.

Asschers are not the most expensive diamond shape available (that award goes to the round brilliant), but they can still command a high price. While Asschers don’t create as much diamond waste as their round brilliant counterparts, the faceting style demands high clarity and color ratings, especially if you want the best diamond money can buy. Additionally, Asscher cuts appear smaller than other diamonds of the same carat weight. So if you’re interested in getting a rock that delivers wide finger coverage, you may have to size up more than if you were purchasing another shape.

Not to fear though, there are several things you can do to save your change and still find your Asscher diamond. The most effective way to afford a larger and high quality diamond is to consider lab grown diamonds rather than naturally mined diamonds. Despite being identical in chemical and physical properties, lab diamonds are around 20-40% more affordable than natural diamonds. Thanks to being made in a lab, lab grown diamonds don’t need to pass through many hands and stages before ending up on your finger. Plus, unlike natural diamonds that are dug out of the earth which takes skilled labor and funds, lab grown diamonds are made in an efficient and streamlined manner in a lab, thus saving you money.

Another way you can save money and find your dream diamond is to consider the four Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat.

Let’s talk about cut. Unlike round diamonds, Asschers don’t automatically receive a cut grade from a grading facility, thanks to the wide variation of diamond shapes and because round is the only shape to receive standardized grades and guidelines. If you’re looking to save money, this can work in your favor. Instead of paying attention to the grade that the diamond has received within its fancy designation, consider the depth and how the windmill in the Asscher looks.

While Asscher cut diamonds do offer some sparkle, they don’t compare to brilliantly faceted diamonds. Instead, because of their step cut pattern, you can expect strong flashes of light and a dazzling hall-of-mirrors- effect. The Asscher cut is known for its unique arrangement of facets, typically in a square shape with cropped corners, resembling an octagon. It's a retro geometric shape that calls back to the Art Deco movement. Perfect for the vintage-loving bride.

Usually, when people talk about the sparkle of a diamond they are talking about the alternating rainbow flashes of light that move through and out the diamond. And while that is technically sparkle, it’s also important to mention light return, especially when talking about step cut stones like Asscher cut diamonds.

Light returns differently with step cut stones than with brilliant cuts. This is thanks to straight and long facets. When light enters a brilliant cut diamond it is dispersed and sent off into all directions, the majority of brilliant facets are cut triangularly, and these triangular facets reflect and disperse the light back out where it continues to bounce around before finally exiting the diamond. Because step cuts have fewer facets, and those facets are more linear, there is less light bounce and more reflection.

It's incredibly important to prioritize finding an Asscher cut diamond with superior light return. Angular spectrum evaluation tests create a visual guide of your diamond's cut grade. For Asscher cut diamonds, the ASET image becomes particularly valuable due to the step cut's distinct facets, as the ASET image helps assess the balance between brilliance and contrast in the diamond, aiding in the selection of stones with superior light return and a desirable play of light.

On average, when purchasing a 2 carat Asscher cut diamond, you can expect to pay anywhere between $1,300 and $28,000. We know, we know, that’s not really an answer, but take heart that means that there is most likely an Asscher cut diamond in your budget! Breaking it down further, the following can affect the cost of an Asscher cut diamond.

Natural vs Lab Created Diamonds: One of the biggest ways to save on diamonds is to consider purchasing a lab diamond. Despite being chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds, lab diamonds are generally around 20-40% more affordable. Much of this is thanks to the production process. You see, natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth’s crust over millions of years before being brought near the surface via kimberlite pipes. Mining these diamonds takes time, effort, and, of course, resources. And these resources don’t come cheap. On the other hand, lab diamonds are made through an efficient process in scientific laboratories. As a result, diamonds can be made much more quickly at a fraction of the cost of mining for real diamonds.

Know Your 4Cs: The price of a diamond can be significantly affected by its 4Cs, which include cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. For instance, a top-notch oval diamond that has excellent cut, color, clarity, and carat weight can be more valuable and costly than a lower-quality round diamond.

Understanding the 4Cs and which categories are most important for your diamond shape can be incredibly important when looking for a 2 carat Asscher cut diamond in your price range. In the Asscher’s case, it’s important to prioritize clarity, as the step cut facets will not be able to hide the same amount of inclusions as brilliantly faceted diamonds.

Other Factors: Apart from the 4Cs, other factors like market demand, diamond fluorescence, and pricing strategies employed by individual retailers can also influence the cost of Asscher and other fancy shaped diamonds. And when in doubt, trust Frank Darling-we can work within your budget to find and source the perfect 2 carat Asscher cut diamond for you.

The Asscher cut diamond is a darling of Art Deco lovers thanks to its unique square shape and elegant step cut facets. While Asscher cuts can work well with any (and we mean any) setting, there are a few standout options to consider.

One classic choice is the solitaire engagement ring setting, typically held in place with prongs or a bezel. The simplicity of this setting allows the unique shape of the Asscher cut to take center stage.

If you prefer a solitaire setting but want a bit more sparkle, you can add diamond details such as a pavé-studded shank. These additions add dazzling allure that we can't get enough of.

For those who love vintage-inspired looks, the Asscher cut pairs exceptionally well with ornate settings that call back to the grandeur of the 1920s. A three stone design with baguette stones or bullet diamonds framing your center Asscher is a stunning choice.

Lead an active lifestyle? Consider a bezel setting. This sleek contemporary setting securely holds the diamond with a metal rim, providing extra protection.

For a unique and eye-catching option, an architectural split shank setting is a great choice for Asscher diamonds. The split shank band divides as it reaches the center stone to create a captivating look with negative space.

Ultimately, you should go with whatever setting makes you the most happy. You should be excited to put your Asscher engagement ring on every single day.