What is a criss-cut diamond? The rare cut that will make your engagement truly unique
What You Need to Know: A Diamond Certificate Isn’t Enough
- Certificates show data — not beauty: Two diamonds with identical 4C values can look completely different in real life. A report can’t show sparkle, fire, milkiness or life.
- True beauty appears in real light: Only an expert eye can judge contrast, brilliance, proportions and light performance — the details no certificate reveals.
- Experience beats paperwork: At Designer Diamonds, every stone is hand-selected and reviewed in natural light, so you choose a diamond that truly shines — not just one that looks good on paper.
A diamond that hardly anyone knows about – until you see it for the first time.
Many of my couples see the criss-cut for the very first time in our showroom – and the reaction is always the same: surprise, amazement and that smile that says: "I've never seen it like this before."
The criss-cut is for people who love the elegant shape of an Emerald or Cushion, but at the same time are looking for something that not everyone wears: something with sparkle, character and rarity value.
How the criss-cut came about – and why it was actually an “accident”.
The criss-cut was discovered by chance when Christopher Slowinski was working on an emerald cut. A change in the faceting angle led to a completely new refraction of light – and thus to the birth of the criss-cut, a cut with 77 faceted, intersecting lines that remain unique to this day.
What makes a diamond a criss-cut diamond?
- The criss-cross faceted structure: It creates a vibrant sparkle reminiscent of a mix of step and brilliant cut.
- 77 facets instead of 57: More light, more fire, more life.
- Appears larger per carat: Due to its proportions, the stone appears visually larger.
- For individualists: Perfect for anyone looking for a special alternative to the classic Emerald.
Criss-Cut vs Emerald-Cut – the big difference
The emerald cut is characterized by clean lines, understated elegance, and a mirror-like appearance. The criss cut, on the other hand, is more vibrant, sparkly, and conceals inclusions much better. Those who love the elongated shape but desire more "fire" often end up choosing the criss cut.
Does a criss-cut suit your style?
Do you love elegant, elongated shapes? Do you want more sparkle than an emerald offers? Are you looking for something that not everyone is wearing? If you answered "yes" to these questions, the criss-cut is very likely the perfect cut for you.
Which frames best suit a criss-cut hairstyle?
Classic settings showcase the criss-cut diamond particularly well. Solitaire, delicate prongs, clean lines – the diamond doesn't need a flashy display to make an impact. Since criss-cut diamonds rarely come in standard sizes, we almost always create a custom-made setting.
How to choose the perfect criss-cut diamond
purity
Clarity grades such as VS2 or SI1 often appear flawless due to the faceting of the criss-cut, as inclusions cleverly "disappear" into the sparkle.
Color
Color grades in the F/G range are ideal. H/I also works very well in rose gold, as the metal enhances the warm color of the stone.
Proportions
A length-to-width ratio of approximately 1.30 to 1.45 appears most harmonious for criss-cut diamonds and is particularly flattering to the hand.
Carat
Due to its depth and faceting, the criss-cut appears visually larger than its actual carat weight – a plus for anyone who appreciates presence on the finger.
Why you should definitely check out a criss-cut at Designer Diamonds
Not every dealer carries criss-cut diamonds. With us, the consultation is relaxed, honest, and personal: I'll show you classic cuts and quickly determine if your style calls for "something special." Then I'll bring out the criss-cut diamond. You can compare at your leisure, and together we'll develop a bespoke setting that perfectly highlights that one, perfect diamond.
A criss-cut diamond is not mainstream. It's a choice for individuality, elegance, and rarity. If you want a diamond that's as special as your story, I warmly invite you to visit us in Munich or Augsburg . At Designer Diamonds, we offer personalized consultations on criss-cut diamonds, engagement rings, and wedding bands, and together we'll create a ring design that perfectly reflects your unique style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a criss-cut diamond?
A criss-cut diamond is a rare cut with 77 facets and intersecting lines, which is particularly popular for unusual engagement rings.
Why does the criss-cut sparkle so much?
The crossed facets reflect light from many angles, creating a vibrant, intense sparkle.
Is a criss-cut good for engagement rings?
Yes, the criss-cut often appears larger and more vibrant than an emerald cut and is ideal for special engagement rings with character.
Are criss-cut diamonds rare?
Yes, criss-cut diamonds are rare, as only a few cutters truly master this special cut.
Which version fits best?
The most beautiful look is achieved with classic solitaire settings featuring fine prongs that emphasize the cut and put the diamond in the spotlight.
Does the criss-cut conceal inclusions?
Yes, due to its special faceting, the criss-cut conceals inclusions much better than a classic emerald cut.
Can it be used in wedding rings?
Yes, criss-cut diamonds are also suitable for wedding rings, especially in modern or classically elegant designs.
Are there criss-cut diamonds available as lab-grown diamonds?
Yes, criss-cut diamonds also exist as lab-grown diamonds, but they are still rarer than other cuts.
Does a criss-cut require a custom frame?
In most cases, yes, since criss-cuts often don't have standard dimensions and a custom-made frame brings out the best in the cut.
