Ashoka-Cut Diamonds: The Complete Guide

When it comes to exclusive stones, it’s hard to find one more impressive than the Ashoka-cut diamond. Expensive, extravagant, and nearly flawless, engagement rings with Ashoka-cut diamonds are likely one you’ll only find on the fingers of the elite (looking at you, Reese Witherspoon). Notable for its distinctive cut and many sparkling facets, this is a stunning choice that is sure to catch everyone’s eye.

Ashoka-cut diamonds are exceedingly rare because making them requires a large rough diamond—one that's at least three carats in size and essentially flawless. “Less than 10 percent of all rough diamonds mined each year even possess the potential to be carved into an Ashoka cut,” Gemist founder and CEO, Madeline Fraser, tells Brides.

Ahead, learn about why you should consider this uniquely cut diamond in your engagement ring search.

Pros and Cons of an Ashoka-Cut Diamond

Ashoka-cut diamonds are a perfect choice for the bride who is looking for a distinctive and exclusive ring. These diamonds have an added sparkle to them that makes for an eye-catching look. According to Kwiat.com—one of the few retailers carrying this patented diamond—an Ashoka-cut makes for a stone that "looks 30%-50% larger than an emerald cut diamond of the same carat weight." This cut also has more facets than a traditional round brilliant cut diamond, making it appear more impressive. The traditional round brilliant cut has 58 facets, and the Ashoka-cut has 62.

However, rarity comes at a price. Ashoka-cut diamonds are known to be one of the more expensive cuts in the world of engagement rings. Still, the time that goes into perfecting this diamond and its quality makes this cut worth the cost.

What to Look for in an Ashoka-Cut Diamond

• What should be your main priority when looking at Ashoka-cut diamonds? “If you have your heart set on an Ashoka-cut diamond, then your first priority will be the cut,” says Lauren McCawley. “Your jeweler may source a few Ashoka cuts within your budget for you to consider. Look for the stone that really catches your attention, as each diamond has its own unique characteristics.”
• What setting styles look best with this stone cut? An Ashoka-cut diamond is made to shine on its own. “For a rare cut diamond that will easily catch anyone’s attention, the best setting would be solitaire,” recommends Fraser. “It stands out on its own and needs its own spotlight.”
• Where can I buy an Ashoka-cut Diamond? The modern Ashoka cut can only be purchased through William Goldberg and its partners. “Today’s Ashoka cut diamond is patented and trademarked, and the stones are not as common as traditional shapes,” says McCawley.

How to Care for Your Ashoka-Cut Diamond

This cut might be rare, but you don’t need to care for it much differently than you would any other diamond. Fraser recommends cleaning it by soaking it in warm water and mild dishwashing liquid, then scrubbing gently with a soft toothbrush. McCawley suggests having your jeweler inspect the setting each year to make sure the prongs are intact.

History of the Ashoka-Cut Diamond

The Ashoka-cut diamond has a very long history that makes it even more interesting. “The story of the original Ashoka diamond hearkens back to the third century B.C., when a legendary 41.37 carat, D color diamond was named after one of India’s greatest emperors, Ashoka Maurya,” explains McCawley. “Ashoka was an Indian warrior-turned-leader who believed that the true path to enlightenment could only be achieved through tranquility, and his namesake stone cut is said to ‘banish sorrow.’" Today’s Ashoka cut was introduced in 1999 by diamond dealer William Goldberg, who has since patented and perfected it.

Scroll through these stunning engagement rings featuring an Ashoka-cut diamond.