A step cut is a cutting style with long facets in parallel rows, like steps, around a large table. The emerald cut and the Asscher are step cuts.
In more detail
Step facets show the inside of a stone plainly, so color and clarity are easy to see. The cropped corners of the emerald cut protect a brittle stone.
On a grading report
Named in the shape and cutting style line.
Related terms
- Brilliant cut: A brilliant cut is a cutting style with a crown of facets above a pavilion. Its facet angles return light and spread it into fire.
- Emerald cut: An emerald cut is a rectangular step cut with cropped corners and a long, open table.
- Asscher cut: An Asscher cut is a square step cut with deeply cropped corners, which give it an octagonal outline.
- Shape and cutting style: Shape and cutting style is the report line for the outline of the stone and the pattern of its facets. An example is "Round Brilliant".