What Is An Old Mine Cut Diamond?

Walking into a modern jewelry store today, you will be hard-pressed to locate an old mine cut diamond. However, if you do, you may find its history and uniqueness lends an additional charm to its vintage style. 

Old Mine Cut Diamond Design

This vintage engagement ring has many similarities to modern cushion-cut diamonds in shape. It is much more square cut than most diamonds, with larger facets and a smaller table. While it has a high crown and 58 total facets, an old mine cut diamond will not provide the same sparkle as modern cuts, but this is also what lends to its uniqueness. Uneven facets and asymmetrical shapes are due to each one being cut by hand. 

The History Of Old Mine Cut Diamonds

"Old mine cut" diamonds is the name originally given to diamonds from Brazilian or Indian mines with the characteristics listed above. This set them apart from newer African mined diamonds produced in the late 1800's. However, African mines soon also adopted the name for diamonds cut similarly. 

How To Identify An Old Mine Cut Diamond

The easiest way for an untrained diamond lover to identify an old mine cut diamond is by the circle in the middle of its table. This is called a cutlet. The cutlet is located at the bottom of the diamond and affects how light interplays with the stone.  A larger cutlet allows light to escape through the stone, creating a dark circle in the center of the diamond's table. A larger cutlet (only smaller cutlets, if any at all, are found in modern diamonds) combined with the hand-cut square shape and smaller table are all good indicators of an old mine cut diamond. 

While the value of an old mine cut diamond depends on a collector's desire for its rarity and the quality of the cut, color, carat, and clarity, ultimately, value is in the eye of the beholder. Whatever your style, Enhancery Jewelers has the design expertise to find or create the perfect diamond ring for the unique individual that is you.