Tell me 3 reasons why i should pick an old cut diamond?

Old cut diamonds possess a distinctive, antique charm, hand cut and polished by a long lost trade, ensuring each stone is one of a kind and full of character. These diamonds offer a connection to the rich history of craftsmanship and elegance, often reflecting the artistry and techniques of the 18th and 19th centuries. Characterised by larger facets, old cut diamonds emit a soft, candlelit glow, providing a timeless and sophisticated sparkle distinct from modern diamond cuts.

When buying an old cut diamond, what should i look for?

Cut Quality: Examine the diamond's symmetry, proportions, and overall shape. Old cut diamonds vary widely, so look for one with a pleasing, balanced appearance. Colour and Clarity: Since old cut diamonds emphasise the stone's natural characteristics, choose a diamond with a colour and clarity that is fitting to your budget. Valuation: Ensure the diamond comes with a valuatuion certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory and, if possible, explore its history and origin to understand its background and craftsmanship.

How do old cut diamonds compare to modern brilliant cuts?

All old cut diamonds share a common trait in their light performance: they produce a warmer, deeper sparkle compared to modern cuts. Rather than the bright white sparkle of contemporary brilliant cuts, old cut diamonds create a soft "glow" with chunky flashes of light, particularly noticeable in the broad flashes of the old mine cut. This warm radiance was specifically designed for candlelit environments, as electric lighting was not yet commonplace during their creation periods.

Old Cut Diamond Rings: Taylor Swift's Timeless Choice

In the world of fine jewellery, certain pieces transcend time, capturing the hearts of collectors and romantics alike. Among these treasures are old cut diamonds, celebrated for their distinct charm and antique beauty. These gems, often associated with the 18th and 19th centuries, serve as a testament to a bygone era of craftsmanship and elegance.

Old Cut Diamond Rings: Taylor Swift's Timeless Choice - Irene Byrne & Co

Joseph Asscher works on the Cullinan, The Sancy Diamond, Diamond Design c. 1919,

Old mine cut diamonds are the precursors to the modern brilliant cut. Their large, open facets, high crown, small table, and deep pavilion distinguish them from their contemporary counterparts. Hand cut with precision, each diamond boasts a unique character, often featuring a slightly irregular, cushion like outline. This individuality is a result of the skilled artisans who, without advanced tools, relied on their intuition to shape these stones. The goal was to maximise the diamond’s carat weight and natural beauty, capturing light in a way that offers a warm, candlelit glow.

Old Cut Diamond Rings: Taylor Swift's Timeless Choice - Irene Byrne & Co

A plot diagram for the old mine cut shows that it has a squarish shape, a small table (left) and a large culet (right). Image courtesy of GIA

Diamond cutters and polishers in New York in the late 1800s.

The craftsmanship involved in creating old mine cut diamonds reflects a time when electric lighting was not yet commonplace. Diamond cutters of the past prioritised the diamond's natural shape and innate characteristics, such as clarity and colour, rather than the precise angles that define modern cuts. This approach allowed the diamonds to maintain as much of the rough stone as possible, enhancing their inherent beauty.

The beauty of old mine cut diamonds lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their historical significance and the stories they tell. Each diamond is a piece of history, a connection to the artisans who shaped it and the era it represents. This timeless beauty and antique elegance make old mine cut diamonds a captivating choice for those who appreciate the artistry of the past.

Photographed is a very unique, one of a kind 2.63ct Cushion Old Cut Diamond Ring; a very special ring as it is Australian c.1900, made by the jeweller Gaunt of Melbourne and in its original ring box.

Recently, the engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce brought old mine cut diamonds into the spotlight. Travis chose a stunning antique old mine cut diamond for his bride-to-be, a choice that reflects both the uniqueness of their bond and a nod to antique sophistication. Their engagement ring, with its intricate design and historical charm, exemplifies the enduring appeal of these gems.

Old Cut Diamond Rings: Taylor Swift's Timeless Choice - Irene Byrne & Co

Images of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement@TaylorSwift/Instagram

For those inspired by Taylor and Travis's choice, old mine cut diamonds offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Whether set in a simple solitaire or a more elaborate design, these diamonds promise a soft, romantic sparkle that is unmatched by modern cuts. Their timeless elegance and captivating beauty make them a perfect symbol of enduring love and a remarkable choice for any engagement ring.

In a world where trends come and go, the attraction of old mine cut diamonds remains steadfast, capturing the imagination of those who value craftsmanship, history, and timeless beauty. Whether you're a collector, a romantic, or someone seeking a unique engagement ring, these diamonds offer a glimpse into a world of elegance that never fades.

Our latest acquisition: A timeless 2.45ct old mine cut diamond from the 1920s, ready to be snapped up for one lucky girl.

Lily Collins is another celebrity who has recently followed the antique diamond ring trend with her fiancé Charlie McDowell picking a rose cut diamond. @Lilycollins / Instagram

This antique ring features five old cut diamonds which have been set in a 18ct yellow gold band from the Victorian era. This is another wonderful way to set the unique stones in a classic and timeless setting.

If you love the large, bold size of Taylor Swifts ring, this Art Deco 2.10ct plaque ring set with old cut diamonds may be the ring for you.

Old Cut Diamond Rings: Taylor Swift's Timeless Choice

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