What are Baguette Diamonds and When to Wear Them?

The baguette cut has been around since the early 20th century when Louis Cartier had his craftsman design a collection of jewellery featuring tapered baguettes set into platinum and gold bands for his famous “Tutti-Frutti” collection in 1924. This style was incredibly popular and became one of Cartier's most iconic designs ever created. The shape got its peculiar name due to its French origin. In French “baguette” translates to “stick” or “rod” and hence the elongated gemstones are called “baguette diamonds”. Some even believe that it's called “baguette diamond” because its shape resembles that of French bread! We leave it to you to decide which version is more plausible. Bon appétit!

Baguette cuts are ideal if you want to create an elegant and sophisticated look rather than appear flashy. Their elongated shape makes them ideal for use in rings, pendants or bracelets. When it comes to choosing a diamond for a special occasion, they offer a subtle and timeless beauty that can not be replicated with any other diamond cut.

A single baguette stone set into a white gold band such as featured in our Elin Ring in 9k White Gold can make an alluring statement when worn as an engagement ring. For those wanting something more understated but still chic, smaller baguette cut diamond studs in white gold can provide just the right amount of sparkle without overpowering the rest of your outfit. The slender Elin Bracelet features a solitaire diamond baguette set in a polished 9K white gold bezel setting. Baguettes also work well as pendants. Take a look at our gorgeous Elin Necklace in 9K White Gold.

Baguette cut gemstones  have less facets than other cuts. As a result, imperfections can be spotted easier. That’s why clarity is an important factor when selecting a jewellery piece that features a baguette cut. At CARAT* London , most of our pieces featuring baguette cuts  have a VVS1 or VVS2 rating. This means that these stones have excellent clarity, with very minor inclusions that can only be spotted by experts using magnification. 

Diamond colour is another important factor. If you are looking for an elegant and classic piece we recommend a colourless diamond with a D-G colour rating as it won’t overpower your outfit.  The Ilaria Ring features a “near colourless” stones with a very subtle yellow hue. This is because the centre stone of this ring is smaller and we want it to stand out a bit more. 

You can find details for each of our jewellery pieces including colour and clarity rating in the ‘description’ section on the product detail page. 

A third factor we consider important is considering whether to go for a mined diamond or a lab-grown diamond. Our lab-grown GENTLE DIAMONDS are physically, chemically and optically identical to mined diamonds. GENTLE DIAMONDS are also 100% conflict-free and the more ethical choice. They pass through a less lengthy supply chain and are thus more affordable than mined gemstones. On average our lab-grown diamond jewellery selection costs 50 to 80% less than jewellery made from mined diamonds of comparable size, clarity and colour. We have written a detailed post to explain the process used to create lab-grown diamonds in more detail and to explain why lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds (also according to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the US Federal Trade Commission).

Baguette diamonds and emerald cut diamonds look similar. However, whereas emerald cut diamonds have polished corners, baguette diamonds have right-angled corners. Emerald cut diamonds also feature three sides with cropped corners, creating an elongated octagon shape. They typically have 58 facets divided into 57 crowns plus one table facet on top. This allows for more light to pass through the stone more efficiently, which results in greater brilliance when viewed from above as compared to many other cuts. For this reason emerald cut diamonds are one of the most sought-out options for ring centre stones. 

Overall, baguette cuts provide an elegant and sophisticated look that can enhance any outfit by providing sophisticated and timeless style. When selecting a baguette cut remember: besides the symmetry and shape and clarity are two important factors to consider. 

• What exactly is a baguette diamond?
  A baguette diamond is a type of diamond cut into a long, rectangular shape with straight edges and square corners, typically featuring 14 facets.
• How did the baguette diamond get its name?
  The term "baguette" comes from the French word for "rod" or "stick," reflecting the cut's long, narrow shape. Some also liken its shape to a loaf of French bread.
• What is the typical size range for baguette diamonds?
  Baguette diamonds are usually quite slender, with common length-to-width ratios of 3:1 or 5:1.
• Are baguette cuts less sparkly than other cuts?
  Yes, this is because they have fewer facets (14 compared to more common cuts with 50 or more). As a result baguette cuts don't reflect as much light and are less sparkly but offer a sophisticated, understated elegance.
• When is the best occasion to wear baguette diamonds?
  They are  perfect for occasions where you want to exhibit elegance without overt flashiness, such as formal events or business meetings.
• Can baguette cuts be worn daily?
  Yes, their understated elegance makes them suitable for daily wear, especially in pieces like small stud earrings or delicate pendants.
• What should I consider when choosing a baguette diamond?
  Clarity is crucial since the simpler facet structure can make inclusions more visible. Opt for high clarity ratings like VVS1 or VVS2.
• How do baguette cut diamonds compare to emerald cuts?
  Both have a rectangular shape, but emerald cuts have beveled corners and more facets, which enhance their brilliance compared to the more straightforward and less flashy baguette cut.
• How do I care for baguette diamond jewellery?
  Handle with care to avoid chipping the corners, store separately to prevent scratches, and clean regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to keep them shining.
• What is the price range for baguette diamond jewellery?
  Prices vary based on size and quality and the type of stone. Baguette cut stones are generally less expensive than more elaborate cuts due to their simpler shape and fewer facets.