Not sure what to look for

[piapetunia]

Hi All, Newbie. I'm just starting my search for an emerald cut diamond. I've done my research and understand the basics of what I am looking for- ideal depth/table etc. I do find diamonds in the 1.4-1.5 l/w ratio the most attractive. I can't find any articles that discuss what to look for beyond the dimensions of the diamond when searching online and viewing images. When I'm looking at diamonds on line, I just don't know how to assess the brilliance/fire. What patterns should I be looking for in a preliminary search before requesting additional images? Can someone please describe or send me a link to what a fantastic cut emerald (brilliance, fire etc) might look like on James Allen or Blue Nile? Again, this is to understand how to narrow the field before asking for additional images/aset or purchasing to see in person.

For example, here is one diamond and I just don't know if the L shaped dark pattern should be an immediate concern in what otherwise looks like a diamond with a lot of life.
https://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD15893763?refTab=DIAMONDS&track=viewDiamondDetails
and here it is in another view
https://www.brilliantearth.com/loose-diamonds/view_detail/13825746/
and this one looks spectacular
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.85-carat-f-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-14478237

Thanks so much in advance!

 

[EClove]

I certainly am not an expert but went through some of this choosing my own emerald cut.

The big thing you want to look for on emeralds is the facets turning on and off - you don’t want them all off at the same time or the diamond can look dark / won’t sparkle. There’s some great threads on this I’ll try to link or tag you in.

I actually really like the first diamond you shared - the facets seem to have a great on off pattern. The second one you shared seems to all turn dark at one point (see image attached.)

The most important thing IMO is to make sure there’s a return policy or that you can see it in person. Fancy cuts are so hard to tell from online videos given that you can’t control the angle of viewing. I had to return the first one I purchased because it was too dark. You can also reach out to Jonathan at distinctive gems - he has gorgeous emeralds! @Rhino


Good luck!!