A clear-cut guide to diamond rings, including the lowdown on the latest, most dazzling multi-stone settings from Winter 2005
No shape more aptly fits the diamond nickname "ice" than the emerald, a rectangular cut with lean facets extending down the sides. The large "table"—the flat surface on the top—shows off the stone's clarity better than any other shape. Developed in the art deco period, this style has long, glamorous lines. Its name was taken from the most popular shape for emeralds in the 1920s.
1.5 carats in platinum with baguettes and round-cut stones (3.9 tcw), Tacori, $25,000; 800-421-9844
1.5 carats in platinum with baguettes (2.72 tcw), Vera Wang, $23,550; Bergdorf Goodman, 888-774-2424