Old Mine Cut
One of the most favored antique diamond cuts is the Old Mine Cut. From the early 18th century to the late 19th 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.
