When a man becomes the best in the world at an art, he is bound to create something beautiful that will last the test of time. This is the creation of the Asscher cut engagement rings from Joseph Asscher. This was after Joseph was asked to cut the largest diamond known at that time in the early 1900's. This was the Cullinan diamond. It was cut into 9 pieces by Joseph and further finished by him and his brother.
With the second largest piece it was decided to shape the stone of a new designed unique to the Asscher family. This was the creation of the Asscher cut. With 58 facets, some of them parallel to the crown, gave this new cut such a fire and brilliance that some have been acquired to be part of the Crown Jewels of England.
The parallel cuts are what really set this type of stone apart from the rest. It resembles a miniature hall of mirrors in each stone.
By reflecting the light in this way, more fire can be seen from each diamond.With today's modern equipment and advanced techniques, the Asscher family decided to change the cut slightly. They increased the facets from the long standing 58 to 74. This has not only improved the quality of the cut but also the brilliance and sparkle of this stone. When compared to a marquise's number of facets at 56, they already had more and now leave that cut far behind them when it comes to exhibiting fire from the stone.
But like all valuable item, this cut has many forgeries, some are quite good but not original. Authentic Asscher cut engagement rings not only have the family crest embossed on the stone itself but a certificate accompanies the ring. If your jeweler does not have the certificate and cannot show the crest, look for another ring to find the real thing.
Asscher Cut Engagement Rings - European Charm