What is an Old Mine Cut Diamond? (2024)

Home / VDR.com Blog

by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

The old mine cut diamond shape is a lovely choice for any engagement ring, but is it right for you and your significant other? Understanding the intricate and dazzling history of mine cut diamonds can help you decide if this vintage diamond shape is best to represent your love and the commitment to your happily ever after.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About the Old Mine Cut Diamond
• Mine Cut Diamond History
• Era
• Finding a Mine Cut Engagement Ring Today
• Unique Shape
• Celebrities
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Finding an Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring

About the Old Mine Cut Diamond

The mine cut diamond shape is easily for its unusual proportions. These stones have a much smaller table and higher crown than modern diamond cuts, along with a larger culet. That larger culet is often notably visible when looking down through the stone, adding a distinctive feature to each diamond. Mine cut engagement rings often feature larger than expected stones, as the unique proportions of this cut create heavier overall diamonds.

Every mine cut diamond has been hand-cut and polished, rather than machine created. Because of this, these stones often have thinner, uneven girdles and may show an overall asymmetry to the facets. These are good visual clues that a mine cut diamond is authentic and genuine rather than a modern mine-style cut. These stones have a total of 58 facets, but because of the higher crown, they tend to
have more surface sparkle rather than deep inner reflections. The overall diamond shape has slightly curved edges and a squarish or rectangular perimeter, similar to the modern cushion cut.

Mine Cut Diamond History

The mine cut is the oldest recognized diamond cut of the modern era, and is named after its geographical origins in “old mines” of India and Brazil. Before lucrative diamond mines were discovered in South Africa in the 1860s, the bulk of the world’s quality diamonds were mined in India and Brazil, and the artisan cutters fashioned them into the distinctive mine cut, also called the miner’s cut or old mine cut. As new mines were discovered and diamond production grew, newer stones were often still fashioned in this old cut style, until the Industrial Revolution brought about new precision cutting techniques.

• Era

The old mine cut is the earliest precursor to the modern round brilliant cut. These stones were most popular in the mid-1850s through the early 1900s, making them common in Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian engagement rings. In the Victorian era particularly, this gem cut experienced a resurgence and was highly sought after.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Finding a Mine Cut Engagement Ring Today

It can be challenging to find an authentic, antique mine cut engagement ring today. Many of these stones have been recut using modern laser cutting and precision machine techniques over the years to improve their overall shape and clarity. Still, couples interested in vintage and antique engagement rings may be able to find mine cut styles. These gems are particularly popular for the socially-conscious, as mine cut diamonds are non-conflict stones, having originated long before modern conflicts and blood diamonds originated. They are also more eco-friendly stones, as there is no further environmental strain when they are sourced for modern engagement rings.

• Unique Shape

True mine cut engagement rings have a great deal of personality because of their unique shape and individual cut. They can also be a budget-friendly option, because their asymmetry and warmer colors are less economically valued than modern precision-cut, colorless diamonds. When choosing a mine cut engagement ring, examine the stone carefully to note its unique characteristics and verify that it is an authentic mine cut. Be especially aware of the stone’s girdle, which should be protected in a sturdier ring setting, such as a bezel or multiple thick prongs, to ensure it will not be easily damaged.

• Celebrities

Despite their increasing rarity, old mine cut diamonds are stars within the Hollywood elite. Even some celebrities, including Ashley Simpson and Natalie Portman, have recognized the beauty and character of mine cut diamonds in their own engagement rings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an Old Mine Cut diamond differ from modern round brilliant cuts?

Old Mine Cut diamonds have a higher crown, smaller table, larger culet, and a more cushion-like shape compared to modern brilliant cuts.

How can I identify an Old Mine Cut diamond?

Identifying an Old Mine Cut diamond involves looking for its squarish shape with rounded corners, high crown, small table, large open culet, and uneven, wide facets.

Our Top Picks For Old Mine Cut Diamond Rings

When selecting an old European diamond ring, choose the design and era that best reflect your personal style and flair. Here's a look at our top picks:

 • Art Deco Old Mine Cut diamond & Sapphire Engagement Ring

This exquisite Art Deco engagement ring boasts a 0.50 ct mine cut diamond of H color and VS1 clarity, surrounded by 8 square cut sapphires, set in a platinum setting circa the 1930s.

Finding an Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring

WA mine cut engagement ring can be a stunning option for any couple, with distinctive traits and a rich, conflict-free history. It’s a great choice for couples beginning what they hope will be their own conflict- free, distinctive history with many happy anniversaries.