The Art Deco diamond trend is making a bold return—and we’re here to tell you how to wear the beautifully vintage step cut diamond, which is making a comeback from the 1920s.
The 1920s weren’t just roaring—they were radiant. And one of the most iconic looks from that era is making a dazzling comeback: step cut diamonds. With their clean lines, sophisticated symmetry, and old Hollywood elegance, these gems are once again stealing the spotlight—and we’re here for it.
At Diamond Castle Jewelers, we’ve seen a renewed interest in this timeless cut. Whether you’re a vintage lover or just drawn to bold, refined design, step cut diamonds are a chic, classic choice that’s as captivating today as it was a century ago.
What Exactly Are Step Cut Diamonds?
Step cuts are diamonds with facets that run in straight, parallel lines, creating a sleek, mirrored effect rather than intense sparkle. Instead of the fiery brilliance found in round or oval cuts, step cuts shimmer with a soft, dramatic glow—more shine than sparkle.
This facet style is most commonly found in:
- Emerald cuts (rectangular)
- Asscher cuts (square-shaped with cropped corners)
- Baguette cuts (thin, rectangular—often used as accent stones)
Because of their open facet design, step cut diamonds showcase clarity beautifully. They offer a “window into the soul” of the stone, which is why they’re often chosen in higher clarity grades.
A Favorite Among Celebrities & Royals
There’s a reason stars and royalty gravitate toward step cut stones. They’re timeless, elegant, and bold in their simplicity.
- Beyoncé famously wears a 24-carat emerald cut diamond.
- Elizabeth Taylor’s Asscher-cut diamond was legendary—more than 33 carats of pure glam.
- Paris Hilton’s recent engagement ring featured an emerald cut flanked by baguette shield stones in a vintage-inspired setting.
These stones exude confidence and class—think of them as the little black dress of diamond cuts.
What’s the Difference Between Step Cut Styles?
- Emerald Cut: Rectangular with long, elegant facets. These are the most iconic of the step cut family—perfect for anyone seeking understated glam.
- Asscher Cut: Think of it as the emerald’s square sibling, with a slightly more vintage feel and dramatic depth.
- Baguette Cut: Slim and subtle, these are often used as side stones or accents in wedding bands. Their tapered versions (trapezoid baguettes) are perfect for framing a larger center stone.
At Diamond Castle Jewelers, we often recommend pairing a brilliant-cut center diamond with baguette or emerald-cut side stones for a modern twist on a vintage design.
Mixing Old School with New Love
If you’re set on a classic round brilliant for your engagement ring, consider adding a step cut wedding band to mix things up. Or explore custom designs that pair step cuts with modern halos, split shanks, or tension settings—just like Paris Hilton’s unforgettable sparkler.
Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, wedding band, or a one-of-a-kind anniversary gift, our team at Diamond Castle is here to help you find the perfect match.
Ready to embrace the elegance of a step cut diamond? Stop into Diamond Castle Jewelers and try one on in person. With our expert guidance and up to 50% off in-stock GIA-certified lab-grown diamonds, there’s never been a better time to bring home a piece of vintage-inspired brilliance.
