An emerald cut lab-grown diamond is a rectangular stone with cut corners and long, step-like facets. Instead of the scattered sparkle of a round, it shows broad flashes of light and a clear, mirror-like depth. It is elegant, slightly vintage, and very good value in lab-grown.
This guide covers how an emerald cut looks, how big it is at each carat weight, which colour and clarity grades to choose, and what real emerald cut stones cost in our catalogue. For other elongated shapes, see our guides to oval and marquise lab-grown diamonds.
What is an emerald cut diamond?
The emerald cut is a step cut. Its facets run parallel to the edges in rows, like steps, which creates the "hall of mirrors" effect. The corners are cut off to protect the stone. The name comes from the gemstone, which is traditionally cut this way.
Because the large table works like a window, an emerald cut shows the inside of the stone more clearly than a brilliant cut. That makes clarity and colour more important.
How big is an emerald cut lab-grown diamond?
Approximate face-up sizes for well-proportioned emerald cuts with a ratio of about 1.4:1. The report measurements are authoritative.
| Carat weight | Approximate emerald cut size |
|---|---|
| 1.00 ct | about 7.0 × 5.0 mm |
| 1.20 ct | about 7.4 × 5.3 mm |
| 1.50 ct | about 7.8 × 5.6 mm |
| 2.00 ct | about 8.5 × 6.3 mm |
An emerald cut is deeper than an oval or marquise, so it can look slightly smaller face-up than those shapes at the same weight. Its long outline still makes it look larger than a round on the finger.
How to choose an emerald cut lab-grown diamond
Clarity: choose VS1 or better
The open facets make inclusions easier to see. VS1 or better is a safe choice for most buyers. VS2 can work when the inclusions are small and away from the centre.
Colour: G or better for white metal
Step cuts show body colour more than brilliant cuts. G or H is a good balance for white gold or platinum; D–F gives the crispest look. Our colour guide explains the grades.
Length-to-width ratio
The classic ratio is about 1.30 to 1.50. Lower ratios look closer to square, and higher ratios look longer and more slender.
Symmetry and steps
Look for even, parallel steps and a symmetrical outline. Clean, regular steps give the bold flashes that emerald cuts are known for.
What does an emerald cut lab-grown diamond cost?
These are real listings from our catalogue on 26 October 2026. Each listing shows its current price.
| Stone | Price on 26 October 2026 |
|---|---|
| 1.2 ct emerald, H colour, VS1 | €540 |
| 1.5 ct emerald, F colour, VVS2 | €590 |
| 1.5 ct emerald, H colour, VS1 | €620 |
| 2 ct emerald, H colour, VS2 | €660 |
| 2 ct emerald, H colour, VVS1 | €810 |
A €500 to €1,000 budget covers emerald cuts from about 1.2 to 2 carats with excellent clarity. Browse all emerald cut lab-grown diamonds, or 1-carat emerald cuts for smaller stones.
Best settings for an emerald cut
Four-prong solitaire
Claws on each cut corner hold the stone securely and keep its clean lines visible.
Three-stone
Tapered baguettes or small pears on either side suit the geometric style of an emerald cut.
Hidden halo or pavé band
These add sparkle to balance the calm, glassy look of the centre stone. Try combinations in our ring customizer, with settings from about €490.
Frequently asked questions
Do emerald cut diamonds sparkle?
They sparkle differently from round diamonds. Instead of many small flashes, they give broad flashes of light and contrast across the steps.
Are emerald cut diamonds cheaper?
They are often less expensive per carat than round diamonds, because less of the rough is lost in cutting.
What clarity should an emerald cut lab-grown diamond be?
VS1 or better is a safe choice, because the open step facets show inclusions more clearly than a brilliant cut.
How much is a 2-carat emerald cut lab-grown diamond?
On 26 October 2026, our catalogue had a 2 ct H VS2 at €660 and a 2 ct H VVS1 at €810. See our 2-carat price guide for other shapes.
Is an emerald cut good for an engagement ring?
Yes. It is a classic, elegant choice that looks large on the hand and suits both modern and vintage settings.
How we wrote this guide: written by the VAALBERG team. Prices are individual listings from our own catalogue on the date shown; sizes are approximate and the report measurements are authoritative.
