2 replies to this topic

[djsmitty74]

I am looking to purchase an Asscher cut 0.5 to 0.7 ct size. I want to get the best cut , but not sure on what Depth % and Table % ranges I should be focusing on to get the best possible cut. I know to keep the L/W ratio 1.0-1.05mm.

Thanks for your help!!

[davidelevi]

Depth and table are not meaningful/useful for cut selection except in very broad terms. They may sort out obvious dogs, but will be of no help in figuring out what is good.

Bear in mind that many if not most of the diamonds you see advertised e.g. on the Diamond Finder will be available to them, therefore in many cases inventory choice is largely the same. Before you focus on choosing the diamond, focus on choosing the dealer:

1. Do you get along with them and their style? Do they seem to know what they are talking about?
2. Are they honest about what they sell (e.g. not spouting any nonsense about EGL being less expensive than GIA), and do they back their goods up with an unconditional return policy?
3. Can they provide the information you will need to choose the diamond - be it photos, videos, ASET images, Sarin scans, ...
4. Are they willing to find multiple stones for you to compare?

Once you have found a dealer for which the answers are "yes", work with them and use their skills, connections and advice to help you find the best stone.

Any "true" Asscher will be square by definition, so l/w will always be below 1.05. GIA will denote such diamonds as "square emerald cut".

Edited by davidelevi, 23 January 2012 - 08:08 PM.

[Liz]

For what it is worth, I happen to feel comfortable with Asscher's that fall in the range of a Depth between: 60% to 68% (generally lower is better). Asscher's are step-cut and depth isn't needed for light refraction (like it is in brilliant cut stones). You can get away with a low depth %, which in turn makes the diamond appear larger.

I like Table % under 68% for Asscher's.

Also, as an Asscher is a "step-cut" stone and therefore shows off clarity and lustre, be careful on color and clarity. You should be ok with an H or higher and VS2 or higher.