6 Tips For Buying Antique Diamonds: Know the 4 Cs
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS--
Anyone in the market to buy an antique engagement ring will quickly learn the four Cs – color, cut, clarity, and carat – but antique diamonds are a bit different. The four Cs still apply to antique and vintage rings, but you need to carefully consider the special nature of these rings even as you evaluate the four Cs.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
Why are Antique Engagement Rings Different?
While diamond engagement rings has been popular for centuries, the mining, cutting, polishing, and setting techniques to show diamonds to their greatest beauty is constantly evolving.
Antique diamonds may not have received the same treatment as modern stones, since different cutting tools, magnification devices, and other technology did not exist when antique stones were cut. Modern stones may also subject to different treatments and enhancements that were not used on antique diamonds.

The following are a few key tips for buying a beautiful antique engagement ring.
Tip # 1 - Know The Antique Diamond Cuts
A diamond’s cut refers to the overall stone shape, including the number of facets incorporated into its surface to create inner brilliance. In general, antique diamonds have fewer facets and more diffuse internal light due to the cutting processes of the time. The first diamonds were cut in the 1300s, and today there are still new cut techniques being developed to create additional facets and add more sparkle to an individual stone.
Tip # 2 - Which Cuts Are The Oldest?
Some diamond shapes are much older and more commonly found in antique diamonds. Cuts such as the rose, old European, and mine cushion cut are very characteristic of antique gems. The round brilliant cut is a perennial favorite, but it too has evolved over time to incorporate more facets, and older round diamonds may seem less brilliant than modern cut stones of the same quality.
Tip # 3 - Know the Step or Table Cut History
Tip # 4 - Know Antique Diamond Clarity
Tip # 5 - Carat Weight of Antique Diamonds
Carat weight varies widely in any age, whether for antique diamonds or modern stones. Many antique diamonds, however, were overall smaller in carats, but set into elaborate, fanciful settings such as with Edwardian engagement rings or Victorian engagement rings, which highlight the stone without the need for additional carats to add to its distinctiveness. Large stones are naturally more dramatic, and are often mounted in less elaborate settings so as not to detract from their unusual carat weight. Instead, large antique stones may showcase different cuts more clearly, adding to their vintage appeal.
Tip # 6 - Know The Fifth C of Antique Diamonds

Antique Rings For Everyone:
No matter which shape is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.
Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:
Antique rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and design. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of vintage engagement rings today!
Suzanne Sachs
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