What Is an Old Mine Cut Diamond?
An Old Mine Cut diamond is an antique diamond cut that dates back to the 1700s–1800s, long before modern cutting tools existed. The term “Old Mine” originally referred to stones sourced from the older diamond mines of Brazil and India before newer deposits were discovered. Over time, however, it became the name for the distinctive, meticulous cutting style of the era—crafted to follow the natural shape of the crystal and designed to maximize sparkle under the lighting of the time (candlelight).
Antique cuts are having a major moment, and Taylor Swift’s engagement ring has made Old Mine Cut diamonds feel more relevant than ever. People love the character, history and one-of-a-kind sparkle you just can’t get from modern cuts. They feel romantic, a little nostalgic and completely unique, which is why so many couples are choosing them.
Old Mine Cut Diamond Characteristics
Old Mine Cut diamonds have a number of features that set them apart from contemporary cuts.
Shape
They’re usually squarish or cushion-shaped, with softly rounded corners rather than perfectly symmetrical circles or squares.
Facets
Old Mine Cuts have irregularly placed facets that are larger and chunkier. This gives them a softer, almost glowing shimmer rather than the sharp, scintillating sparkle of today’s diamonds.
Crown and Pavilion
Old Mine Cut diamonds have taller crowns and deeper pavilions, which gives them a slightly raised profile in a setting and can make the diamond appear larger than its carat weight.
Table
The flat top of the diamond, called the table, is usually smaller than modern cuts, contributing to the unique way light interacts with the stone.
Culet
Many Old Mine Cuts have a more prominent culet, a flat facet at the bottom of the diamond, characteristic of the period’s hand-cut style, though ideally it remains proportional and doesn’t appear too dark or distracting from the top.
How to Choose an Old Mine Cut Diamond
Shopping for an Old Mine Cut diamond is a bit different than shopping for modern stones, as they predate today’s grading systems. Here’s how to approach the 4Cs when choosing Old Mine Cut diamonds:
Cut
Old Mine Cuts were crafted in an era before precision grading, so choosing one is more about overall beauty than technical perfection. Look for a well-proportioned stone with a softly cushioned shape and sparkle that comes alive as the light shifts.
Color
Old Mine Cuts often appear warmer than modern diamonds because of their natural color. While modern buyers may prioritize colorless stones, a hint of warmth (slightly yellow or champagne) can actually enhance the antique feel and make the diamond look more authentic.
Clarity
Because Old Mine Cut diamonds were hand-cut from rough stones without modern precision, they often have visible inclusions. These aren’t considered flaws, but rather part of the diamond’s charm and character. When choosing a stone, look for inclusions that don’t distract from the sparkle, and embrace a bit of imperfection—it’s part of what makes each diamond truly one-of-a-kind.
Carat
Old Mine Cuts often sit differently in a setting due to their deep pavilions and high crowns. This means a diamond may appear larger than its carat weight suggests. Consider both the carat and how the diamond sits in the ring to get the visual impact you want.
Old Mine Cut vs Old Mine Brilliant Cut
What Is an Old Mine Brilliant Cut?
This term can be confusing, but here’s the distinction: an Old Mine Brilliant Cut belongs to the same family as the Old Mine Cut, but the “brilliant” label highlights that it uses a brilliant-style facet pattern, similar to modern rounds, while still keeping the older, hand-cut proportions.
Old Mine Cut vs Old European Cut
The Old European Cut, which emerged in the late 1800s to early 1900s, evolved from the Old Mine Cut and has a more circular outline, a slightly larger table and a facet pattern designed to maximize sparkle.
Why Did They Stop Making Old Mine Cut Diamonds?
Old Mine Cut diamonds stopped being made once diamond-cutting technology improved and tastes shifted toward more sparkle. These antique stones were shaped entirely by hand, often by candlelight, so their facets aren’t as precise as modern cuts. When machinery and new cutting standards arrived in the early 1900s, cutters could finally create diamonds with much brighter, more efficient light return, like the modern round brilliant. As a result, the Old Mine Cut naturally faded out, leaving us with the gorgeous vintage versions we treasure today.
Old Mine Cut vs Cushion Cut
If you love the look of an Old Mine Cut diamond but want a stone that’s easier to find or has modern brilliance, consider a cushion cut diamond, which is inspired by the Old Mine Cut but refined for today’s standards.
FAQs
Are Old Mine Cut Diamonds Rare?
Yes. Because they were hand-cut centuries ago, each Old Mine Cut diamond is unique, and fewer of them remain in good condition compared to modern cuts.
Are Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamonds More Valuable Than Newer Cuts?
They can be, especially if they’re well-preserved with good color and clarity. Their value often comes from rarity, craftsmanship and vintage appeal rather than just carat weight.
How Can I Identify an Authentic Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond?
Look for a soft, squarish or cushion shape with high crowns, deep pavilions, a small table and slightly irregular, chunky facets—hallmarks of Old Mine Cut diamonds. You’re always welcome to bring it into our store where our expert jewelers will help you evaluate the details.
What Makes Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamonds Unique Compared to Other Cuts?
Each stone carries the marks of its hand-cut past, with a warm, glowing sparkle and subtle imperfections you simply won’t find in perfectly uniform modern diamonds.
An Old Mine Cut diamond is a little slice of the past, shining just for you. Book an in-store or virtual appointment with one of our ring experts to custom-create your dream ring.
