What is a baguette cut diamond?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A baguette cut is a small, elongated rectangular step-cut diamond or gemstone with only 14 facets and straight, unclipped corners, giving it a clean, architectural look. The name comes from the French word for the long thin bread loaf, which the shape resembles. Baguettes are rarely used as centre stones; they work best as accent stones running along the shoulders of a ring, framing a solitaire, or set channel-style in eternity bands. A tapered baguette has angled sides and is used to set around curved or pear-shaped centre stones.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a baguette cut and an emerald cut?
- Both are step cuts, but a baguette is much smaller and simpler, with only 14 facets and no cropped corners. An emerald cut is larger with more facets, cropped corners and greater depth, and is primarily used as a centre stone rather than an accent.
- Do baguette diamonds show inclusions easily?
- Yes, because step cuts have open, parallel facets that act like windows into the stone. For baguettes used as accent stones, clarity is important; SI1 or better is generally recommended so inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.
- What is a tapered baguette?
- A tapered baguette has sides that angle inward so the stone is wider at one end than the other. This shape is used to set around curved or non-rectangular centre stones, allowing the accents to follow the outline of the main gem cleanly.
Designing a ring
Talk through baguette cut with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio