The Asscher cut is a unique shape with a very deep modified step cut that creates a mesmerising optical illusion known as the ‘Hall of Mirrors’ effect. This cut is perfect for those couples looking for a unique and individual style, and although this fancy diamond engagement ring cut reached its heyday during the Art Deco period, this elegant design has recently experienced a resurge in popularity.
The Asscher cut diamond was first created in id verification ring 1902 by Joseph Asscher, owner of the renowned Asscher diamond company that was responsible for cutting the famous 3,016-carat Cullinan Diamond for the British Crown Jewels. In 1980, Her Majesty Queen Juliana of Holland granted the Asscher Diamond Company a royal title in recognition of the role the Asscher family and company has held in the diamond industry. The Asscher cut has been exclusively patented, with every genuine Asscher diamond having the Asscher family insignia and a unique identification number emblazoned directly on the stone’s girdle. Incidentally this mark is only visible under high magnification.
There are two types of Asscher cuts that display a modified step cut and these are the standard 1902 Asscher cut and the Royal Asscher cut created in 2001. The Asscher cut is a distinctive shape that emphasises prismatic brilliance, has a rectangular-faceted pavilion in the same style as the emerald cut, and typically boasts 58 facets. This unique engagement ring cut, which allows for tremendous lustre, as well as a fascinating bottomless effect, is relatively rare and exclusive. Following considerable research and development, the 2001 redesign was made to be even more difficult for counterfeit cuts to be distributed. These modern stones have slightly smaller corners and a larger central table, along with sixteen additional facets for an even more brilliant shine.
This extremely stylish shape offers an air of antique vintage primarily because it incorporates the striking Art Deco design style of the 1920s, which was when the cut’s popularity peaked. This particular engagement ring cut has remained a rather rare commodity, with not all jewellers carrying Asscher cut stones. What makes this style even more unique is that there are no specific standards for its formation, and each stone is individually inspected and cut for maximum beauty according to the cutter’s discretion. This means that no two Asscher diamonds are exactly alike.