All You Need to Know About Carre Diamond Shape

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While most people know the popular diamond shapes, the term Carre cut diamond is relatively unknown. However, you might know more about this type of diamond cut than you think.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Carre diamond cut.

What is a Carre Diamond?

A Carre diamond refers to a type of square step cut. In this respect, Carre cut diamonds are similar to Asscher, baguette, and emerald shapes, all of which also step cuts. However, unlike those three cuts, the Carre cut is very rare and not a mainstream option.

The Carre cut has long, open facets that display the clarity and color of the diamond and allow you to see deep into the stone. This is different from brilliant cut diamonds which have a lot of meticulously arranged facets designed to enhance sparkle. With the Carre cut, the emphasis is on the diamond’s subdued beauty, not its glamorous sparkle.

Characteristics of the Carre Diamond Cut   

A Carre cut diamond, just like a princess cut, is square in shape, with sharp 90-degree angled corners. This is a vulnerable aspect of the Carre cut as these corners are prone to get chipped or damaged if struck hard.

This is why a protective setting like a halo or bezel setting is best for a Carre diamond. If you go with a prong setting, ensure that the prongs are placed at the four corners to protect the points, like in this princess-cut diamond ring. 

Carre cuts display very good fire, especially when viewed under natural light sources like sunlight or even candlelight. However, if you’re looking for sparkle, this cut isn’t the best for you. Carre cuts have reduced sparkle and can even appear almost glass-like.

In terms of clarity and color, a Carre cut diamond shows inclusions and any color tints easily and isn’t a forgiving cut. This, again, is due to the wide-open facets of the cut. As a result, it’s important to choose a diamond with no visible inclusions and with good color.

Carre Cut vs. Asscher Cut Diamonds

The Carre cut looks so similar to the Asscher that often people mistake the two. However, there are distinct differences in the appearance of these two diamonds. And these differences are derived from the fact that the Carre has corners whereas the Asscher doesn’t.

The Asscher cut is square in shape but has truncated corners. This effectively makes it an eight-sided figure with short edges. Because of this, the Asscher cut has a windmill-like appearance when viewed from the top, with the facets of the four shorter edges contrasted against the facets of the longer edges.

The Carre cut only has four sides, which gives it a clear X shape across the center of the diamond. The four sides meet in the middle at a sharp point and the cut has an overall clean, clear appearance with a square pattern.

So, while at first glance these two cuts look similar, they are in fact, different because of the number of corners they have.  

Where to Buy Carre Cut Diamonds

You won’t find Carre cuts at most popular diamond retail stores and you’ll find your options limited if you’re after this special cut.

However, some smaller retailers who specialize in bespoke services may be able to source you Carre diamonds if you contact them.

Another good option is to check sites like Etsy and Amazon, where there are a number of unique Carre diamond rings and loose stones. Etsy in particular has a good range of highly valuable antique Carre diamond rings. You can browse them here.