What is a square cut gemstone?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A square cut is a broad term for any gemstone fashioned into a square outline, and it covers several distinct faceting styles. The most well-known is the princess cut, which has a square shape with brilliant-style facets that produce strong sparkle. The Asscher cut is also square but uses step-cut facets similar to an emerald cut, giving it a more mirrored, geometric quality. Square cuts sit cleanly in channel and bezel settings and have a modern, architectural appeal.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a square cut the same as an emerald cut?
- They are related but different. An emerald cut is rectangular with trimmed corners and long step-cut facets. A square cut with the same step-cut facets is usually called an Asscher cut, which has a square outline with those same hall-of-mirrors facets and distinctive cropped corners.
- What is the most popular square cut diamond?
- The princess cut is the most popular square diamond cut, known for its brilliant faceting and strong sparkle. The Asscher cut, with its more geometric step facets, has also grown significantly in popularity as a vintage-inspired choice.
- Does a square cut look bigger or smaller than a round diamond of the same carat?
- Square cuts often look slightly larger face-up than round diamonds of the same weight because the square shape has more surface area visible from above. This makes them an appealing choice for those who want maximum visual size for a given budget.
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