What Is A Baguette Diamond?
At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, we believe life's too short for ordinary jewelry. Our commitment to excellence and elegance is reflected in our curated selection of exquisite pieces, including the timeless and sophisticated baguette diamond. With their sleek and elongated shape, Baguette diamonds are a stunning choice for those seeking a touch of understated elegance. Let us delve deeper into the fascinating world of baguette diamonds and discover what makes them a unique and cherished choice in fine jewelry.
What is a Baguette Diamond?
A baguette diamond is defined by its sleek, elongated shape and step-cut facets. Unlike brilliant-cut diamonds that sparkle with intense fire, baguette diamonds exhibit a more subdued, sophisticated shimmer. This is due to their unique cut, which includes parallel facets arranged in a step-like fashion. Typically rectangular or sometimes tapered, baguette diamonds have 14 facets, which create a mirror-like effect.
History and Origin
The term "baguette" comes from the French word for a long, narrow loaf of bread, reflecting the diamond's shape. The baguette cut gained popularity in the 1920s during the Art Deco period. This era celebrated geometric shapes and clean lines, making the baguette diamond an ideal choice for jewelry designs of the time. Its sleek, modern appearance has continued to captivate jewelry enthusiasts for decades.
Characteristics and Quality
Shape and Size
Baguette diamonds are rectangular with straight or tapered sides. The typical length-to-width ratio ranges from 1.5:1 to 2:1. The straight baguette has parallel sides, while the tapered baguette narrows at one end, often used to complement center stones.
Clarity
Due to the step-cut nature, baguette diamonds highlight clarity over brilliance. Any inclusions or flaws are more visible compared to brilliant cuts. Thus, higher clarity grades are preferred.
Color
Color is less noticeable in baguette diamonds because of their smaller surface area. However, for an exceptional piece, a color grade of G or better is recommended to ensure a near-colorless appearance.
Cut
The precision of the cut is crucial. Baguette diamonds require exact proportions to maximize their reflective properties and maintain their elegant appearance. A poorly cut baguette will appear dull and lifeless.
Versatility in Jewelry Design
Baguette diamonds are incredibly versatile and can be used in various jewelry settings. Here are some popular uses:
Engagement Rings
Baguette diamonds are often used as side stones to enhance the brilliance of a central stone. Their clean lines complement various cuts like round, princess, and emerald. They add a touch of elegance without overshadowing the center diamond.
Wedding Bands
A band of baguette diamonds creates a stunning, continuous sparkle. Their linear form makes them perfect for eternity rings, symbolizing endless love and commitment.
Earrings
From classic studs to sophisticated drop earrings, baguette diamonds add a refined sparkle. Their elongated shape elongates the wearer's face, providing a graceful appearance.
Bracelets
In tennis bracelets or bangles, baguette diamonds bring a sleek and contemporary look. They can be set in a channel or prong setting, offering a unique twist on traditional bracelet designs.
Necklaces and Pendants
Baguette diamonds can be arranged in various patterns to create intricate designs. Their geometric shape lends itself well to modern and vintage-inspired pieces.
Setting Considerations for Baguette Diamonds
The setting of a baguette diamond is vital not only for security but also for aesthetic appeal. Here are some popular settings to consider:
Channel Setting
In a channel setting, baguette diamonds are placed between two strips of metal, creating a seamless row of stones. This setting offers excellent protection for the diamonds, as the metal channels shield the edges from damage. It provides a sleek, modern look that complements the clean lines of baguette diamonds, making it ideal for wedding bands and eternity rings.
Bar Setting
The bar setting features diamonds secured between vertical metal bars, with the sides of the diamonds exposed. This setting allows more light to enter the stones, enhancing their brilliance. The bar setting provides a balance between security and visibility, making it a popular choice for rings and bracelets where the diamonds are the focal point.
Bezel Setting
A bezel setting surrounds the diamond with a thin metal rim, offering maximum protection for the stone. While this setting can make the diamonds appear slightly smaller, it enhances their clean and sophisticated look. Bezel settings are ideal for those who prioritize durability and security, especially in pieces that will be worn daily.
Prong Setting
In a prong setting, the diamonds are held in place by metal prongs that secure the stone at its corners. This setting allows the most light to enter the diamond, maximizing its sparkle. Prong settings can be used for baguette diamonds in engagement rings or as accents, providing a classic and timeless look.
Tension Setting
The tension setting uses pressure to hold the diamond in place between two metal ends, creating the illusion that the diamond is floating. This contemporary setting showcases the diamond with minimal metal interference, allowing for maximum visibility. However, it requires precise craftsmanship to ensure the diamond is securely held.
Famous Jewelry Featuring Baguette Diamonds
Baguette diamonds have adorned many famous pieces of jewelry, often enhancing the brilliance of central stones or adding a touch of elegance to sophisticated designs. Here are some notable examples:
1. Audrey Hepburn’s Necklace
One of the most iconic pieces featuring baguette diamonds is the necklace worn by Audrey Hepburn in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's. The stunning necklace, designed by Tiffany & Co., features a combination of baguette and brilliant-cut diamonds, showcasing the versatility and timeless appeal of baguette diamonds.
2. Grace Kelly’s Engagement Ring
Grace Kelly’s engagement ring, given to her by Prince Rainier III of Monaco, is another famous piece featuring baguette diamonds. The ring, designed by Cartier, boasts a 10.47-carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by two baguette diamonds, exemplifying classic elegance and sophistication.
3. Elizabeth Taylor’s Jewelry Collection
Elizabeth Taylor, known for her extensive and exquisite jewelry collection, owned several pieces featuring baguette diamonds. Her stunning diamond and emerald brooch, given to her by Richard Burton, includes baguette diamonds that enhance the central emerald’s vivid color.
4. Meghan Markle’s Eternity Band
Meghan Markle’s eternity band, gifted to her by Prince Harry, features a delicate row of baguette diamonds. This modern piece combines simplicity with elegance, making it a perfect symbol of timeless love and commitment.
5. The Taylor-Burton Diamond
The famous Taylor-Burton Diamond, a 68-carat pear-shaped diamond owned by Elizabeth Taylor, was complemented by baguette diamonds on either side. This iconic piece highlights how baguette diamonds can enhance the beauty and brilliance of a central gemstone.
6. The Graff Pink Diamond Ring
The Graff Pink Diamond, one of the most expensive diamonds ever sold, is a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond set between two shield-shaped baguette diamonds. This masterpiece demonstrates the elegance and value that baguette diamonds bring to high-end jewelry designs.
7. Victoria Beckham’s Engagement Rings
Victoria Beckham is known for her collection of engagement rings, many of which feature baguette diamonds. One notable ring includes a central emerald-cut diamond flanked by baguette diamonds, showcasing her sophisticated taste and style.
Caring for Baguette Diamonds
Baguette diamonds, like all fine jewelry, require proper care to maintain their beauty. Here are some tips to keep your diamonds sparkling:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your baguette diamond jewelry regularly with a soft brush and a mild detergent solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the metal settings. For professional cleaning, you can bring your jewelry to Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry for proper care.
Professional Maintenance
Have your jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler at least once a year to ensure the settings are secure and the diamonds remain in place. At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, we offer expert maintenance services to provide your cherished pieces with the proper care they deserve.
Proper Storage
Store your baguette diamond pieces separately to avoid scratching other jewelry. Using a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal.
Conclusion
Baguette diamonds, with their sleek and elongated shape, bring a touch of understated elegance to any jewelry piece. Their unique step-cut facets and sophisticated shimmer set them apart, making them a versatile option for a variety of settings, from engagement rings to earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Custom Designs and Personalization
At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, we understand that each piece of jewelry tells a unique story. Our skilled artisans are here to help you create custom designs that incorporate baguette diamonds in a way that reflects your personal style. Whether you are looking for an engagement ring, a special anniversary gift, or a timeless piece to add to your collection, we are committed to bringing your vision to life.
Join us at our year-round Trunk Shows, where you can meet renowned designers and view exclusive pieces. Enjoy a warm and inviting shopping experience, complete with treats for our valued customers, especially during the holiday season. At Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry, we are proud to support our community and local non-profits, furthering our commitment to making a positive impact.
For more information, visit us at 2101 W Wadley Suite 31, Midland, Texas 79705. Contact us at Cathy@cathyeastham.com. Call or text us at: (432) 682-8008. Our operating hours are Monday – Friday, 10 am – 5:30 pm, and Saturday by appointment.
Explore the world of fine jewelry with Cathy Eastham Fine Jewelry and let us help you find the perfect piece that celebrates life's most precious moments.
