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One of the most favored antique diamond cuts is the Old Mine Cut. From the early 18^th century to the late 19^th century, the Old Mine Cut was the most common. Typically found in the Georgian (1714-1837) and Victorian (1837-1901) eras this cushion shape was cut by hand using a lamp as the light source. Giving each diamond an individual unique look. Since the Old Miners are cut by hand, they have the ability to sparkle and catch the light, with many different light sources. Modern cut diamonds cannot compare. These old cut diamonds are chunky in shape and typically have a warmer hue, the Old Mines cushion shape comes from the diamond being cut from a rough gem and lack of machinery, these diamonds are closer to their natural form. Diamonds at this time were mined from mines in Brazil and India, just like the diamonds the locations at which they are mined are unique. Each location has different mineral deposits and different resources that grow the diamond itself giving the various natural hues to the antique cuts.

This diamond shape got its name Old Mine, from the original old diamond mines they were discovered in. The way to identifying an Old Mine cut diamond is typically, they have a small table, most noticeable by looking at the diamond from above. Most have large culets which is where all the facets join at the bottom of the diamond. This is most noticeable while looking from the top through the table. Old Mine cuts have a high crown and deep pavilion making the diamond taller than modern cuts. Old Mine cuts are perfectly imperfect and unsymmetrical. This is due to the way they are cut. Giving the diamond a more organic look, true to the diamond's natural crystal form. Old Mine cut diamonds are one of a handful of antique cuts, beautiful in cut, sparkle, and hue.   

Retro Era:

Dates 1939-1950

Concluding World War II, the style of this era is heavenly inspired by the war and its victory. Many elements from the Art Deco reign are carried through. The symmetrical, geometric designs become bolder and amplified through the time. Allowing this era to be filled with large colorful gemstones, yellow gold, platinum, and white gold. With metal shortages on the rise white gold became more dominate in the jewelry world. With gemstones, diamonds, and metals difficult to come by recycling older unused pieces becomes the trend. Giving worn pieces new life allowed a new look to be created without taking any needed materials from our soldiers. Convertible pieces like necklaces or brooches, also take the spotlight these pieces allowed a variety of looks without the abundant use if materials. Metals were not the only thing effected by the war gemstones and diamonds were troublesome to come by as well. This made it so smaller gems were used in abundance, the pave style settings increased in popularity. Along with dome shaped rings, these domes would be encrusted in small vibrant gems often making floral or geometric shapes. These styles may not be as blingy as previous eras, but the pave settings allowed for big sparkle with the materials available. This eleven-year span is a great combination of past eras, full of vibrant colors and detailed design. Many of these styles are still used today.

Ecofriendly, recycle, reuse, renew and sustainability, these are all words that are at the forefront of many consumers’ thoughts.

Here at North Coast Jewelry, we pride ourselves on renewing, reusing and being environmentally friendly. The pieces that we procure are antique, sometimes hundreds of years old. These pieces already exist, they just need to be found. That is when the treasure hunting begins.

Our pieces come from numerous sources from all over the state, country, and sometimes the world! Sourced from individuals, shops, estate sales and more, The treasures cover a whole range of wear and tear. Many of our treasures need a good polish, have some minor fixes needed or are found incomplete, when this is the case, we take the steps needed to make the treasure wearable once again.

Anything needed to complete an item is found, not created. We ensure that when fixing a piece, it stays era appropriate; gems are the correct age including the cut and style, as well as the metal we use. Old cut diamonds and gems are becoming harder to find. Due to recutting, sourcing them is sometimes more difficult, but an important task to ensure an authentic piece. We recycle and reuse vintage goods, giving them a new lease and a better future. No harsh chemicals, no waste and a product that can stand the test of time.

SHOP WITH A PURPOSE

North Coast Jewelry pledges to donate a portion of all proceeds towards the fight against Cystic Fibrosis. CF is near and dear to our family's heart. More than 30,000 people in the US, including a sweet four year old friend of ours named Madelein, are battling this terrible disease. We would like to do our part in funding the research for a cure for cystic fibrosis. #teammaddy

Our daughter Addie enjoying a beach day with Maddy