Rare, fancy and side stone cuts

Rare diamond cuts are uncommon cutting styles that are either historically significant, patented by specific brands, or require exceptional craftsmanship. Examples include the Ashoka, Eighty-Eight, Jubilee, Asprey, and Royal Asscher cuts. These cuts are found in less than 10% of all diamonds due to their specialized cutting requirements

The Round Brilliant cut is generally considered to sparkle the most with its 58 facets designed specifically to maximize brilliance. Among rare cuts, the Eighty-Eight cut with its 88 facets and the Jubilee cut with its unique structure are known for exceptional sparkle, with some rare cuts able to shine brilliantly even in low-light conditions

The Round Brilliant cut is typically the most expensive due to its popularity and the significant amount of rough diamond material lost during cutting. Among rare cuts, the Ashoka and Asprey cuts command premium prices due to their exclusive nature, patented designs, and the requirement for larger, high-quality rough diamonds

Yes, lab-grown diamonds can be fashioned into rare cuts. The same cutting techniques apply to both natural and lab-grown diamonds as they have identical chemical and physical properties. However, some patented cuts may only be available through specific retailers who have the legal rights to produce these designs.

Some diamond cuts are patented to protect their unique design and cutting techniques. For example, the Ashoka cut is patented by William Goldberg and the Eighty-Eight cut by Finesse Diamonds. For buyers, this means these cuts can only be purchased through authorized retailers who have the rights to sell these specific cuts, making them more exclusive and often more expensive.

Higher facet counts in rare cuts dramatically impact brilliance and light performance. The Eighty-Eight cut (88 facets) and PrincessPlus (100-115 facets) create more brilliance compared to traditional cuts. These additional facets can make diamonds appear up to 30-50% larger and brighter than conventional cuts of equal carat weight, as seen with the Ashoka cut's 62 facets versus the round brilliant's 58

The Ashoka cut is exceptionally rare because it requires a rough diamond of at least 3 carats that's essentially flawless, which accounts for less than 1% of all rough diamonds mined annually. This modified cushion cut features 62 facets, rectangular shape with rounded corners, and makes the diamond appear approximately 30% larger than traditional cuts of the same weight. Its name honors Emperor Ashoka Maurya and is said to have the ability to banish sorrow.

The Eighty-Eight cut was created after years of engineering research by Finesse Diamonds of New York. It features 8 sides and 88 facets, embracing Asian traditions that recognize the number 8 as a symbol of good fortune, luck, and prosperity. The cut's unique design creates mesmerizing brilliance through its octagonal shape and requires no special lighting to show off its fire and sparkle, making it one of the most distinctive patented diamond cuts available