From princess cut to pear cut, the world of specialty faceted wedding diamonds is infinite—especially so if you’re already starting to get the gears turning on other wedding plans.
Thankfully, it’s an easy choice: look no further than the baguette diamond wedding ring for an incomparable gleam and inimitable style.
It’s understandable and smart to ask the right questions when choosing the diamond for your beautiful band: what even is a baguette diamond (and why are they named after bread)? Can a baguette cut diamond be used for different band designs? Are baguettes real diamonds?
We can assure you: you don’t have to knead it over any further. Read on to learn the ins and outs of the vintage-inspired, clean and classic baguette diamond.
The facets are arranged by a cutting style known as step cut, which showcases rectangular facets that connect strongly at the baguette stone’s corners, enforcing its distinct angular shape.2 This is unique from the flashier “brilliant cut” gem style, which incorporates triangle and kite-shaped facets for a reflective, sparkly effect. Step cutting produces a softer glow for the diamond, like a gentle halo.
The baguette diamond has origins in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco design eras, as its sharp tapers and pronounced geometric facets made it all the rage for accenting the timeless, glamorous looks popular at the time.3 These same features make any baguette-cut stone perfect for experimenting with new combinations of gem inlays on a ring:
Though diamonds are famously one of the most durable natural materials around, the particular proportions of the baguette cut introduces some risk of wear. With a high portion of the baguette diamond consisting of large, flat-cut surface area, the diamond faces greater chances of noticeable damage if it’s bumped, scratched, or chipped upon that large rectangular facet. (That said, it’s worth noting that these instances are relatively rare—after all, diamonds are one of the most durable stones out there.)
The few edges on the baguette stone face may also mean each edge that is there sees more wear (rather than being spread out among 50+ facets), ultimately filing down the cut edges and softening the whole stone. This affects polish and sheen, as well as the baguette cut’s seminal shape.
As a result, some jewelers recommend using channel setting for your baguette diamond ring, in which the diamonds would be comfortably inlaid between two metal walls that form the band. Effectively, the exposed perimeters of the diamonds are hidden from the elements, safeguarding them for lifelong wear.
However, the iconic main rectangular facet of the stone can tend to highlight the stone’s own translucence, as the minimal cuts allow more exposure through to other facets of the diamond and minimal reflection. Reflection atop a diamond’s facets is what gives them their stunning sparkle under sunbeams or rays of light.
Baguette diamonds also have a reputation for producing a subtly gleaming “halo” effect as opposed to a multidimensional, striking shine, imparting a delicacy and softness specially unique from the notion of rigidity often surrounding diamonds.
When you’re deciding on your baguette diamond ring, it can be helpful to check for a high color grade on the baguette diamonds, especially if you’re pairing them with differently cut diamonds. While you may not notice some of these color differences by looking at the center stone alone, doing so ensures uniformity and an even, cohesive color palette around the entirety of your band.
A high color grade on a baguette diamond gives off brightness and luminescence (contributing to white brilliance), which matches the ultra-whiteness of alternate cuts.
That said, answering the question “Are baguette diamonds expensive?” proves to be a bit complicated, as their price point depends on multiple sliding scales. Baguette diamonds are graded just like other diamonds, on a 4C scale that measures the following:
Since a baguette diamond has fewer facets than other diamond styles, it costs less to compensate for the work done on the diamond (a lower-grade diamond cut).
In general, the price per carat for baguette diamonds is going to be less than other diamond cuts, as baguette cuts are often smaller sizes by necessity.8
All in all, expect to pay between $400 and $1000 per carat for a baguette diamond.3 The gems closer to that upper boundary thus have higher grade color, clarity, and carat weight, and vice versa.
Thankfully, it’s an easy choice: look no further than the baguette diamond wedding ring for an incomparable gleam and inimitable style.
It’s understandable and smart to ask the right questions when choosing the diamond for your beautiful band: what even is a baguette diamond (and why are they named after bread)? Can a baguette cut diamond be used for different band designs? Are baguettes real diamonds?
We can assure you: you don’t have to knead it over any further. Read on to learn the ins and outs of the vintage-inspired, clean and classic baguette diamond.
What is a Baguette Diamond?
What is a baguette diamond you ask? A baguette diamond features minimal facets presented in a thin, elongated rectangular stone.1 The few facets make the baguette cut stand out from other styles such as the emerald cut diamond: the baguette diamond’s mere 14 facets, compared to other classic cuts’ 50+ facets, make for an instantly recognizable and special stone.The facets are arranged by a cutting style known as step cut, which showcases rectangular facets that connect strongly at the baguette stone’s corners, enforcing its distinct angular shape.2 This is unique from the flashier “brilliant cut” gem style, which incorporates triangle and kite-shaped facets for a reflective, sparkly effect. Step cutting produces a softer glow for the diamond, like a gentle halo.
Sophisticated Simplicity: Baguette Diamond Wedding Ring Styles to Consider
The baguette diamond’s simple geometric shape proves it a suitable choice for even the smallest of diamonds. For this reason, baguette diamonds are popular as more understated accent pieces for a larger, central stone on a ring—but that doesn’t mean they don’t have their place on center stage. Sometimes baguette-cut diamonds are almost square, with near-even proportions, and it’s common to see these as their own statement pieces atop a wedding band.The baguette diamond has origins in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco design eras, as its sharp tapers and pronounced geometric facets made it all the rage for accenting the timeless, glamorous looks popular at the time.3 These same features make any baguette-cut stone perfect for experimenting with new combinations of gem inlays on a ring:
- Horizontal baguette band – If you want to go all-in on baguette diamonds, try a ring that features the rectangular beauties on their sides, encircling the whole band for maximum glow. No need for a statement centerpiece—this ring will gleam from any which way it’s turned. Noémie’s own Baguette Diamond Band is such a ring, with a one-of-a-kind design for first-class love and luxury.
- Vertical baguette band – Vertically-set baguette diamonds form a ring not too unlike the first of this list, except the stones are joined by their longest sides, rather than their shortest. This design choice maximizes the number of diamonds in the ring, as their upright position calls for more diamonds to fill the band. The vertical baguette band is a perfect example of how smaller stones don’t need to be smaller statements.
- Baguette-accented ring – For depth and variation, consider a ring with tasteful baguette diamond embellishments. These rings feature a neat row of accent stones that sit atop the band on either side of the central stone (which can be diamond, but could also feature other gems). The slender baguette silhouettes serve as a “lead in” to the main stone, creating a naturally elevated feel.
- Solo baguette statement ring – Nothing’s more elegant than well-done minimalism (“show, don’t tell!”), and it doesn’t have to be underwhelming. Try a wedding ring with a single baguette diamond on its own, centered within the band, like the Single Baguette Ring. It’ll make for an ultra-refined look, and nothing will steal the spotlight from the charming baguette diamond we know and love.
The Baguette-Cut Diamond’s Quality
The same fewer facets that give the baguette diamond ring its star-striking shape may also make this ring choice a bit more sensitive than other gem cuts.4Though diamonds are famously one of the most durable natural materials around, the particular proportions of the baguette cut introduces some risk of wear. With a high portion of the baguette diamond consisting of large, flat-cut surface area, the diamond faces greater chances of noticeable damage if it’s bumped, scratched, or chipped upon that large rectangular facet. (That said, it’s worth noting that these instances are relatively rare—after all, diamonds are one of the most durable stones out there.)
The few edges on the baguette stone face may also mean each edge that is there sees more wear (rather than being spread out among 50+ facets), ultimately filing down the cut edges and softening the whole stone. This affects polish and sheen, as well as the baguette cut’s seminal shape.
As a result, some jewelers recommend using channel setting for your baguette diamond ring, in which the diamonds would be comfortably inlaid between two metal walls that form the band. Effectively, the exposed perimeters of the diamonds are hidden from the elements, safeguarding them for lifelong wear.
The Brilliance of the Baguette Diamond
Due to the baguette diamonds being not as faceted as other cut styles such as the emerald cut diamond, it can be known to feature less brilliance than other diamond cutsHowever, the iconic main rectangular facet of the stone can tend to highlight the stone’s own translucence, as the minimal cuts allow more exposure through to other facets of the diamond and minimal reflection. Reflection atop a diamond’s facets is what gives them their stunning sparkle under sunbeams or rays of light.
Baguette diamonds also have a reputation for producing a subtly gleaming “halo” effect as opposed to a multidimensional, striking shine, imparting a delicacy and softness specially unique from the notion of rigidity often surrounding diamonds.
Something Else to Consider: Color
The subdued brilliance of the baguette diamond can leave it looking less white than brilliant-cut diamonds which tout more opacity.When you’re deciding on your baguette diamond ring, it can be helpful to check for a high color grade on the baguette diamonds, especially if you’re pairing them with differently cut diamonds. While you may not notice some of these color differences by looking at the center stone alone, doing so ensures uniformity and an even, cohesive color palette around the entirety of your band.
A high color grade on a baguette diamond gives off brightness and luminescence (contributing to white brilliance), which matches the ultra-whiteness of alternate cuts.
The Baguette Diamond’s Price Point
While the baguette cut may sometimes make for a unique choice, you can be at ease that they won’t break the bank.That said, answering the question “Are baguette diamonds expensive?” proves to be a bit complicated, as their price point depends on multiple sliding scales. Baguette diamonds are graded just like other diamonds, on a 4C scale that measures the following:
- Diamond color – A higher color grade on a diamond denotes a lack of hue. The better the grade, the more transparent and unsaturated it is.4 The gemologist’s goal to aim for in this category is the transparency of a water droplet.
- Diamond clarity – In the realm of diamond clarity, the most expensive are the blemish-free, unmarked diamonds, thus highly graded (though no diamond can be truly perfect, as they’re naturally formed in extreme sub-earth environments).5
- Diamond cut – Though cut can determine a diamond’s shape, that’s not the full story. Diamond cut stresses the stone’s facets and how they are cut to reflect light in different ways. As previously mentioned, the baguette diamond consists of step cuts.6
- Diamond carat weight – Carat measures a diamond’s physical weight on a standardized scale. With a masterfully accurate and highly sensitive scale, determining carat weight is the most straightforward and objective diamond grading process.7
Since a baguette diamond has fewer facets than other diamond styles, it costs less to compensate for the work done on the diamond (a lower-grade diamond cut).
In general, the price per carat for baguette diamonds is going to be less than other diamond cuts, as baguette cuts are often smaller sizes by necessity.8
All in all, expect to pay between $400 and $1000 per carat for a baguette diamond.3 The gems closer to that upper boundary thus have higher grade color, clarity, and carat weight, and vice versa.
Noémie: A New Dawn of Baguette Diamonds
If you want a wedding or engagement ring that is as timeless and beautiful as the love you’re celebrating, dare to discover Noémie's diamond rings for women. We’re the dependable source for all your diamond and fine jewelry needs.
Our baguette-cut rings pair the classic charm of the baguette diamond’s history with magically modern designs, like that of our Spiral Baguette Diamond Ring or Baguette Diamond Band. And you know you’re getting the best, as we at Noémie dream big—offering certified VS diamond clarity and F-G color grades while still sourcing from ethical, conflict-free zones.
Find the perfect fit for your biggest day and beyond right here at Noémie.
Sources:
- Gemological Institute of Europe. Shapes and Cutting. https://gielab.com/shape/
- International Gem Society. A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/gem-cutting-terms/
- Diamond Insider. Why are Baguette Diamonds so Expensive? https://www.dmia.net/baguette-diamonds/
- Gem Institute of America. Diamond Color. https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-color/
- Gem Institute of America. What is Diamond Clarity? https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/diamond-clarity
- Brides. A Complete Guide to DIamond Cut. https://www.brides.com/diamond-cut-5095047
- American Gem Society. Understanding DIamond Carat Weight: The 4Cs of Diamonds. https://www.americangemsociety.org/buying-diamonds-with-confidence/4cs-of-diamonds/understanding-diamond-carat-weight-the-4cs-of-diamonds/
- The Diamond Pro. What You Should Know About Baguette Diamonds. https://www.diamonds.pro/education/baguette-diamonds/