Step Cut

A step cut is a type of gemstone cutting style characterized by its rectilinear shape and layered facets.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: The step cut is a gemstone cutting technique renowned for its precise, geometric lines and a series of concentric rectangular or square facets that ascend or descend the stone, much like the steps of a staircase. This method is particularly favored for gems like emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds, where it enhances the stone's natural clarity and color while showcasing its luster with a hall-of-mirrors effect. Unlike the brilliant cut, which is known for maximizing sparkle, the step cut offers a more subtle elegance, emphasizing the stone's depth and purity. This cutting style provides a sophisticated, vintage appeal to jewelry, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine pieces seeking to highlight the gemstone's unique properties.