Help with depth % on Emerald Cut

[wally100]

Hi,
I posted some specs a few days ago on an Emerald Cut I put on hold at a local B+M.

1.50 F VS1
7.51x5.70x4.18
Depth 73.3%
Table 66%
Girdle: Thin to medium
Culet: none
Polish: VG
Symmetry: Good
Fluorescence: Faint

No crown measurements.
I believe this stone mostly fits in the 2A to 2B category, except for the depth % which is 3A (I think)

Maybe someone more familiar with the AGA criteria can explain to me what the potential downside of a larger depth % is.

I have looked at over a dozen stones and this one seemed to have a lot more sparkle than many I have seen. I would hate to pass it up because of a number that I do not understand very well.

 

[canadiangrrl]

Wally, if the stone speaks to you, then by all means, buy it. Your eyes should ultimately be the final judge.

However, the depth percentage is pretty deep, and it would suggest that it's going to appear smaller than a 1.50 EC with a more ideal depth percentage. Fancies are hard to judge, though, and I'm certainly no expert.

I'd suggest taking a look at Jonathan's site, Good Old Gold. The last time I checked, he had a couple of really nice emerald cuts listed.

Best of luck!

 

[wally100]

Thanks,
I'm starting to get a better sense for these values. The depth % actually refers to the depth compared to the width, so if a stone is too deep, it's like wasted weight, when a shallower stone of same weight would appear larger. I'm sure there are changes in light return as well, though I am having a hard time finding detailed information about how this affects Emerald cuts specifically. By comparison there is a wealth of information about RBs (not surprisingly).

I have looked at Jonathan's site and he seems a little short on ECs in my size range at the moment. Maybe I will try contacting him directly.

 

[Hest88]

Wally, I'd also contact Jonathan directly. He has access to a lot of stones he doesn't post.

As to light return, the extra depth will create the same adverse effect it would in a RB; you're going to lose light through the pavillion. It's hard enough getting a well-cut EC so it's important to maximize all the important factors.