Emerald Cut vs Princess Cut - Which Is Better?

While going for a ring, everyone wants to get the perfect one. It is a critical decision since you are spending a lot, not only money but also effort and time in it. 

You have to choose not just the gemstone but also the metal, and design of the ring. For choosing the perfect ring, you need to choose the right cut of the gemstone as well. Whether you are going for a diamond, blue sapphire, ruby stone or emerald, the cut of the gemstone will play a significant role in how the ring will look. The cut affects the overall appearance of the ring, it enhances the sparkle and brilliance of the gem. 

Among the many options that are available in the market today, the best are the princess cut and emerald cut. These two cuts are the most popular choices because of their distinct beauty. The distinct characteristics each cut offers make them the most trending. In this blog, we will explore these two gemstone cut types in brief, so that you can choose the most appropriate one for yourself. 

Let's get into each one by one first. 

What is an Emerald Cut?

Emerald cut as the name suggests was given to this cut because it was first experimented on emeralds and looks the best on them. It is an elegant shape that is known for its elongated form in rectangular shape. The emerald cut has bevelled corners and have step-cut facets which create a beautiful hall of mirrors-like effects in a series of parallel facets. 

The cut looks like a staircase and its facets have a subtle glow. 

The emerald cut was most traditionally used in the emerald stone so that their inclusions can be minimized. 

Key features of Emerald Cut:- 

Shape - Rectangular in Elongated form with bevelled corners. 

Facets - Step-Cut Facets (in Parallel lines)

Know more - Emerald cut engagement rings - Get Your Perfect Ring!

What is a Princess Cut?

The princess cut is a modern cut that is contrasting, it is a bold cut in the square form. It has sharp corners.

This cut was introduced in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity because of its unique and alluring look. It has numerous facets, more than 58 and is arranged in such a way that the brilliance of the gem is enhanced. This cut is mostly known to hide the inclusions very well and enhance the natural fire of the diamond. 

Key Features of the Princess Cut:-

Shape - Square shape with sharp corners 

Facets - Brilliant Cut facets

Also Read - Gemstone Shapes vs Gemstone Cuts

Differences Between Emerald Cut and Princess Cut

Now, we know about the basics of both cuts, so let's go deeper into the entails and explore the key differences between the emerald cut and the princess cut: 

So, Is princess cut or emerald cut better?

Know for yourself: 

Emerald Cut Vs Princess Cut - Shape/Structure 

The most apparent difference between the princess cut and the emerald cut is their shape. The emerald cut has a rectangular shape and step-cut facets, while on the other hand, the princess cut has a square shape in brilliant facets. 

This is the most significant difference as well which makes these two cuts very different from each other. 

Brilliance and Sparkle 

The brilliance and sparkle of the gemstones whether it is diamonds or coloured gemstones, come from the cut of the stone. 

Emerald cut step facets make it look like a hall of mirrors and produce brilliant sparkle which highlights the natural beauty of the gemstone. 

On the other hand, princess cut is known more for enhancing the fire of a gem. The numerous facts of the cut maximise the reflection and refraction of light. 

Clarity 

One of the most important factors that you must check out before you buy a gem is its clarity and the clarity of the gem is also affected by its cut. A cut can highlight or hide the inclusions or flaws of a gem. 

Flaws are more visible in emerald cut rather than princess cut because of the elongated form. So if you are going for an emerald cut, the gem needs to be of a higher quality. 

The princess cut will mask the minimal inclusions and so a medium or low-quality gem will also look good in it. 

Read more about it here - Understanding Gemstone Clarity: What Does It Mean and Why It Matters?

Proportions and Symmetry

Proportions and symmetry are also important along with the cut. A well-shaped cut with precision will definitely increase the overall appeal of the gem. 

Emerald cuts have a length-to-width ratio ranging from 1.30 to 1.50, which creates a sophisticated elongated form. 

Princess cut has a length-to-width ratio close to 1.00 and if the symmetry is precise, the balanced proportions will create a harmonious look.

Princess Cut vs Emerald Cut - Price 

Why is emerald cut more expensive?

Emerald cuts are often more expensive than princess cuts because it is very hard to cut the gems in this type of cut. They are more labour-intensive and need a lot of accuracy and precision as well as expertise. 

So, the gem cut in emerald cut of the same size can be more expensive than that of princess cut. 

Which One to Choose?

You have to choose one of these two cuts based on your preferences, the design of the ring and your budget. Here are some points to keep in mind while choosing your desired cut:- 

Personal Preference: Elegance vs Sparkle

If you prefer your ring to be more sophisticated then an emerald-cut gem is the ideal choice. Also, if you want a gem that looks larger then this cut is the one for you. 

On the other hand, if you want your gem to have a brilliant and modern look, then a princess cut is the one you should go with. 

Consider the Setting and Style of the Jewelry

The overall style of the jewellery is the most important point that you should keep in mind. If you are going for a vintage look then emerald cut gemstone is best. If you want an intricate design than a princess cut is the best one. 

Importance of the 4 Cs (Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat)

The four Cs are important to consider when choosing a gemstone and by extension the cut of the gemstone. 

For an emerald cut, you should choose a medium or high-quality gem while for the princess cut you can go for any quality.

Colour and carat weight preference is totally up to you. 

Further Reading - The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Metal for Rings

Conclusion

Both the cuts are brilliant and which one is better depends on the styling of the ring. Every individual have their distinct taste and preferences, so you can choose one accordingly but make sure that between these two cuts, you also choose the size and quality of the gem accordingly. 

If you need more assistance or want expert advice, then you can contact us. Our expert team at Navratan will help you choose the best stone for you in the right cut, color, clarity and size.