The Ashoka is back in the spotlight as actress Reese Witherspoon's diamond engagement ring headlined news outlets everywhere. Many of us have heard it before, but what really is Ashoka?
According to the Diamond Source of Virginia, the original Ashoka diamond was a 41.37 carat D flawless stone that was mined in the legendary Golconda region of India. It was named after Ashoka the Great, an Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who famously converted to Buddhism after seeing the toll of war and conquest on his empire.
Today, an Ashoka diamond refers to a type of cut that is similar to a cushion-cut and has actually been trademarked by famed jeweler William Goldberg. According to the news source, the modified cut of the Ashoka is composed of 62 facets that capture and disperse light appropriately to create an unmatched brilliance.
The cost and exclusivity of the Ashoka might be limited to the rich and famous, but those in search of a diamond engagement ring have a lot of alternatives to choose from. Just look for vintage jewelry pieces with a cushion cut.
