What Is An Old Mine Cut Diamond?
When you step into any modern jewelry store today, you will be hard-pressed to find an old mine cut diamond. Its unique beauty and history make the old mine cut a highly sought-after vintage piece of jewelry.
This diamond doesn't possess the standard mathematical symmetry you would find in other modern cuts. However, its history, sparkle, and romance put the old mine cut on top of the list of diamond collectors and lovers.
What Are Old Mine Cut Diamonds?
The old mine cut became very popular in the mid-1800s and early-1900s. Its name, "old mine cut," came into use in the 1860s. The discovery of diamonds and subsequent technological improvements in South Africa called for the distinction between "old" and "new" diamonds. Its most notable features are its uneven shape, an eye-visible culet, and a tiny table.
History of the Old Mine Cut
The old mine cut was used to make different types of jewelry ranging from necklaces, rings, and earrings in the 18th and 19th centuries. Like all diamonds of that era, the old mine cut was cut and measured by hand. Its beauty depended almost entirely on the cutter's perception of proportions and skills, beauty, and appearance.
The old mine cut would remain in favor throughout the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras.
Unique Characteristics of the Old Mine Cut Diamond
While the shape of the old mine cut looks relatively similar to modern cushion cuts, some key differences stand out that give it its easily identifiable and unique appearance.
These are:
- Large, prominent culet: the old mine cut has a large culet that's visible through the table, which gives it its distinctive appearance compared to other diamonds
- Small table: it has a smaller table that's mostly noticeable when viewed from the top of the diamond
- Smaller facets: the old mine cut has smaller, shorter facets underneath the diamond, used to determine its sparkles and overall appearance
- High crown & deep pavilion: it has a much higher crown than most modern brilliants and a much deeper pavilion that is set on the ring
The old mine cut diamond's imperfect symmetry resulted from being eyed and cut by hand. Thus, the reason why some proportions are bigger and bulkier than others.
Why You Should Choose Old Mine Cuts
The old mine cut's history, rarity, mystique, and sparkle will undoubtedly make you fall in love with it. Its imperfect symmetry makes it look less complicated but stylish at the same time, making it worth any diamond collector's consideration. Contact Us today for a free consultation on old mine cuts and other diamond varieties.
