When choosing a gold emerald engagement ring, the shape of the diamond plays a significant role in not just the aesthetics—but also the value. Two popular choices, the emerald cut and princess cut, offer very different visual styles and pricing advantages. At KRK Jewels, we help you understand these differences so you can make a choice that balances beauty, meaning, and budget.
1. Visual Appearance
Emerald Cut:
Recognized for its elongated rectangular shape and step-cut facets, emerald cut diamonds offer a “hall of mirrors” effect—subtle, elegant, and timeless. They showcase clarity and clean lines more than sparkle.Princess Cut:
The princess cut is square or rectangular with sharp corners and brilliant-cut facets that offer intense sparkle. It’s ideal for those who love brilliance and a modern feel.
Verdict:
Princess cuts offer more sparkle; emerald cuts offer a more refined, vintage appeal.
2. Face-Up Size & Spread
Emerald Cut:
Due to their elongated shape and large table (top surface), emerald cuts tend to appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.Princess Cut:
Princess cuts have more depth, meaning more of the diamond’s weight is hidden below the surface. This can make them appear slightly smaller from the top.
Verdict:
Emerald cuts provide better size appearance per carat.
3. Price per Carat
Emerald Cut:
These diamonds are generally less expensive per carat than round or princess cuts due to lower demand and higher yield from the rough stone.Princess Cut:
Often more affordable than round cuts but typically slightly pricier than emerald cuts because they require more precise faceting and lose more rough during cutting.
Verdict:
Emerald cuts typically offer better value per carat.
4. Clarity & Inclusions
Emerald Cut:
The open step-cut facets highlight any inclusions. It’s recommended to go for higher clarity (VS1 or better, or eye-clean SI1).Princess Cut:
The brilliant-cut facets hide inclusions well, making lower clarity grades (SI1, SI2) more forgiving and affordable.
Verdict:
Princess cuts are more forgiving with inclusions, which can lower cost without compromising beauty.
5. Durability
Emerald Cut:
With trimmed corners and strong edges, emerald cuts are relatively durable, especially when set properly.Princess Cut:
The sharp corners are prone to chipping and require protective prong settings.
Verdict:
Emerald cuts are slightly more durable in daily wear.
6. Style & Symbolism
Emerald Cut:
Associated with old-world glamour, elegance, and clarity of character.Princess Cut:
Known for youthfulness, energy, and brilliance—very popular with modern couples.
Verdict:
Choose based on your personal style. Emerald for sophistication; princess for sparkle and modern charm.
Final Thoughts: Which Offers Better Value?
If you define value as price per visible size, clarity, and long-term wearability—emerald cut diamonds often come out ahead. They look larger per carat, cost slightly less, and provide a refined, classic look. However, if sparkle is your top priority and you want to maximize brilliance in a small carat range, princess cut diamonds offer excellent value—especially in lower clarity grades.
At KRK Jewels, we offer both emerald and princess cut engagement rings in natural and lab-grown diamonds, tailored to your budget and design vision.