Square Emerald Lab Grown Diamonds

What is a square emerald cut diamond, and how does it differ from a standard emerald cut?

A square emerald cut is an emerald cut diamond with a length-to-width ratio of approximately 1.00–1.05, giving it a symmetrical, almost square footprint rather than the elongated rectangle of a classic emerald cut. Both share the same step-cut faceting architecture — parallel rows of rectangular facets, cropped corners, and a large, flat table — but the square format creates a distinctly different visual weight on the finger. Where a rectangular emerald cut elongates the appearance of the hand, a square emerald sits squarely and confidently, giving a more compact, architectural impression. The step-cut faceting of a square emerald lab grown diamond produces broad flashes of light rather than the scattered sparkle of a brilliant cut, making inclusions more visible and placing a premium on clarity. In lab grown form, the same facet geometry and optical behaviour is present — the origin of the crystal does not alter how light travels through the stone.

How to choose the right square emerald lab grown diamond: clarity, colour, and certification

Clarity is the first consideration when selecting a square emerald lab grown diamond. The step-cut faceting and open table act like a window into the stone — inclusions that would be masked by the faceting of a round brilliant are plainly visible here. VS2 clarity is generally the minimum worth considering, with VS1 and above preferred for stones above 1.0ct. Colour follows a similar logic: the broad, flat facets hold and reflect body colour more prominently than brilliant cuts, so near-colourless grades (F–H on the GIA scale) suit most square emerald lab grown diamonds well. Every stone in this collection is certified by GIA, HRD or IGI, so the cut proportions, table percentage, and depth are documented and independently verified. When purchasing a square emerald lab grown diamond loose, compare certificates side by side — small differences in table percentage (typically 60–72% for well-proportioned step cuts) affect both the light return and the perceived size of the stone.

What does a square emerald lab grown diamond cost in the UK?

Square emerald lab grown diamonds are priced significantly below their natural counterparts in equivalent grades, making a larger, higher-clarity stone achievable at a given budget. Price is governed by carat weight, clarity grade, colour grade, and the certification body. A well-specified 1.0ct square emerald lab grown diamond in VS1/F will sit well below what the same specification would cost in a natural stone. For context, Bridebook's 2026 UK average engagement ring spend of £2,247 covers the centre stone, the setting, and the hallmarking — with a lab grown square emerald, more of that budget can be directed toward carat weight or clarity. Buying the stone loose first, before selecting a setting, also allows for an accurate total-cost comparison across different specifications.

Setting a square emerald lab grown diamond: which ring styles work best?

The geometry of a square emerald lab grown diamond is well served by settings that respect its rectilinear lines. A four-claw or eight-claw solitaire in platinum or gold with straight or tapered claws follows the shape without competing with it. East-west orientations — where the stone is set with its length running parallel to the finger rather than perpendicular — suit the square emerald particularly well, as the near-equal proportions make the rotation visually coherent. Step-cut or baguette-cut side stones complement the architectural quality of the square emerald lab grown diamond; brilliant-cut shoulders introduce a contrast in light behaviour that can either provide textural interest or visual discord, depending on the setting design. When a square emerald lab grown diamond purchased loose is brought to President Jewellers for setting, the ring is produced via CAD design and a silver or wax sample for approval at our Hatton Garden workshop, with every finished ring hallmarked at the London Assay Office.

Caring for a square emerald lab grown diamond over time

A square emerald lab grown diamond is chemically and physically identical to a natural diamond — rated 10 on the Mohs scale — so the stone itself requires no special maintenance beyond periodic cleaning. The cropped corners of the square emerald cut are structurally important: they reduce the risk of chipping compared to a sharp-cornered princess cut, but the corners should be protected by claws or a bezel at those four points. Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe for square emerald lab grown diamonds set in platinum or gold, though any stone should be checked for loose settings beforehand. A gentle soak in warm water with a few drops of washing-up liquid, followed by a soft brush, is sufficient for routine care. Because the broad table of a square emerald lab grown diamond shows fingerprints and surface oils more readily than faceted brilliant cuts, a quick wipe with a clean cloth after wear keeps the stone looking its best.