Old European Cut Diamonds: The Old European Cut is a vintage diamond cutting style popular from the 1890s to the 1930s. These diamonds feature a round shape with a smaller table (top flat surface), a higher crown, and a larger culet (bottom point) compared to modern brilliant cuts. They have 58 facets like modern round brilliants but with different proportions that create a distinctive "chunky" sparkle with broader flashes of light. The hand-cut nature gives each stone unique character, and they often appear slightly less brilliant than modern cuts but possess exceptional fire and a romantic, antique charm.
Old Mine Cut Diamonds: The Old Mine Cut, also known as the "cushion brilliant," was popular from the 1700s to the 1890s. These diamonds have a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, resembling a pillow or cushion. They feature a high crown, deep pavilion, small table, and large culet. With 58 facets arranged differently than modern cuts, they produce a distinctive pattern of light and shadow. The cut was designed to maximize brilliance under candlelight, creating a warm, romantic glow. Each stone has individual character due to hand-cutting techniques, making them highly sought after for vintage and antique jewelry.
Both cuts are prized by collectors and those seeking unique, historically significant diamonds with character that differs from modern precision-cut stones.
