Since our founding in New York City in 1907, Kwiat has been the source for uncommonly beautiful diamonds. Our fourth-generation, family-owned brand has perfected the art and science of diamond cutting, and we’re particularly known for our fancy shapes. The most unusual of the perfectly cut Kwiat Tiara Diamonds™ is the rare ASHOKA® cut diamond, a unique diamond cut that appears larger than most — and it’s available in the United States exclusively at Kwiat. In fact, the ASHOKA cut is so distinctive, it’s protected by a federal trademark.
What Makes an ASHOKA Cut Diamond So Special?
An ASHOKA cut diamond begins with an ethically sourced, elongated rough stone that is longer and larger than most, and capable of revealing a unique shape and faceting pattern — a find so rare that fewer than 1% of the world’s rough diamonds meet the criteria.
It can take up to six months to cut an ASHOKA diamond to the highest standards with exceptional polish and symmetry. The result is a diamond with the elongated shape and straight edges of an emerald-cut diamond, and the gracefully rounded corners of a cushion-cut diamond. Its 62 precisely arranged facets give ASHOKA a dazzling prismatic effect and make it appear 30% to 50% larger than emerald-cut diamonds of the same carat weight. And if you are wondering how an ASHOKA diamond is different from other fancy shapes, it’s the consistency that sets it apart from pears, marquise, etc. That means that no matter how many carats it is, every ASHOKA diamond has the same exact proportions and faceting pattern.
The precise dimensions of ASHOKA optimize brilliance, creating a unique diamond cut that appears larger and whiter than its GIA color grade, with a fiery prismatic effect. Kwiat complements the graceful, elongated shape of ASHOKA in light, airy designs that enhance the diamonds’ sparkle and make them appear to “float” against the skin.
This remarkable diamond also has a fascinating story.
ASHOKA Cut vs. Emerald Cut Diamonds
Key Differences and Benefits
- Both the ASHOKA cut and the emerald cut have an elongated shape.
- If you’re asking why does an ASHOKA appear larger than an emerald cut, the reason comes down to its dimensions. Its length is greater, proportionally speaking, than an emerald cut, creating the illusion that it’s actually a bigger diamond.
- An emerald-cut diamond typically has 57 step-cut facets, while an ASHOKA cut is a modified cushion shape with 62 facets.
- An ASHOKA cut diamond emits prismatic brilliance, while an emerald-cut diamond gives off a much subtler sparkle.
A CLOSER LOOK
View Transcript
My name is Greg Kwiat, and I want to help you learn everything you need to know to buy a diamond. I’d like to introduce you to the ASHOKA, the Diamond of Legend. Let’s learn about what makes the ASHOKA so unique and extraordinary. ASHOKA diamonds are defined by their gorgeous shape and distinctive faceting pattern. Beautifully elongated with straight edges and gracefully rounded corners, they are perfectly cut with 62 facets that create a dazzling prismatic effect. ASHOKA diamonds have exceptional polish and symmetry, and they appeal to those who want something truly different and rare. Fewer than 1% of the world’s rough diamonds meet the exacting criteria to become an ASHOKA diamond. The ASHOKA shape combines the elegant elongation of the emerald cut with the soft corners of the cushion shape. The proprietary faceting pattern gives it a unique and elegant sparkle unlike any other diamond in the world. Because of their cut, Ashoka diamonds will appear 30 to 50% larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, also appear wider than their GIA color grade, and when worn in a ring, the ASHOKA shape can seem to elongate the finger. The legendary Ashoka diamond is rare and highly desired, only available with Kwiat in the United States.
ASHOKA Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
Exclusive Designs at Kwiat
If you’re wondering, “Where can I buy an ASHOKA diamond ring in the U.S.,” Kwiat is proud to be the exclusive source. For decades, couples seeking this unusually brilliant diamond have come to us. Not only do they adore the cut, they also love the way we mount it in a variety of settings crafted in 18K yellow gold and platinum, each designed to highlight the diamond’s unique shape and dimensions. If you’re not sure how to choose an ASHOKA diamond engagement ring, rest assured there are options to suit every taste. Whether you prefer an ASHOKA cut with a bezel or prong setting, with or without pavé, or even in an east-west setting, Kwiat has many to choose from. And you should also know one of the benefits of elongated diamond rings: their elongated shape gives your ring finger a lengthened look.
ASHOKA Diamond Jewelry
Our exclusive ASHOKA cut is not reserved for engagement rings. It’s also available in a range of jewelry designs ideal for any occasion. For evening, we suggest glamorous diamond hoop earrings or drop earrings. If you’re looking for something for every day, our ASHOKA solitaire pendant might fit the bill. Love the idea of classic diamond stud earrings but want a pair that stands out from the rest? Consider framing your face with ASHOKA studs — unusual enough to be eye-catching, yet classic enough to wear with anything.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ashoka Cut Diamonds
“What is an ASHOKA diamond?”
The ASHOKA diamond is a trademarked cut available in the United States only at Kwiat. It is an ethically mined, elongated fancy shape diamond with 62 precisely arranged facets that give it a dazzling prismatic effect and make it appear 30% to 50% larger than emerald-cut diamonds of the same carat weight.
“How is an ASHOKA diamond different from other fancy shapes?”
Fancy shape diamonds typically differ greatly from one to the next. For instance, if you compare one cushion cut diamond to another, they may have a different faceting pattern if they are two different carat sizes — and often, even if they are the same carat size. Every ASHOKA cut, on the other hand, has exactly the same faceting pattern and proportions, regardless of its carat size.
“Why does an ASHOKA appear larger than an emerald-cut diamond?”
Thanks to its unique proportions, an ASHOKA diamond carries more of its weight in its length than other elongated diamonds, such as an emerald cut. That makes it look bigger. Imagine two people who both weigh the same amount, but one is tall and one is short. Same weight, different appearance.
“Is an ASHOKA diamond ethically sourced?”
Like all Kwiat Tiara Diamonds™, ASHOKA cuts are natural, conflict free, and ethically mined. Through our Mine to Shine experience, you can even choose your own rough stone and follow its journey from a known origin through cutting and polishing, to setting it in a ring designed just for you.
“Where can I buy ASHOKA diamond engagement rings?”
In the U.S., the only source for an ASHOKA cut diamond ring — or any kind of ASHOKA diamond jewelry — is Kwiat. For personal, one-on-one assistance choosing an ASHOKA diamond or any other kind of diamond jewelry, please reach out to our concierge.