What are Old Mine Cut Diamonds? 

Morgan & Co love sourcing unique stones and the trend for 2025 is the resurgence of Old mine cut diamonds. So what are they?  

Old mine cut diamonds are antique diamonds that were popular from the 18th century through the early 20th century, especially during the Georgian and Victorian eras. They are considered the predecessor to modern brilliant-cut diamonds and have unique characteristics that make them highly sought after by collectors and vintage jewellery enthusiasts. Here’s what sets old mine cut diamonds apart:

Lets look at what makes an old mine cut diamond so special. 

1. Shape

• Old mine cut diamonds have a cushion-like shape, often described as squarish or slightly rectangular with rounded edges. This gives them a softer, less geometric appearance compared to modern cuts.

2. Faceting and Sparkle

• These diamonds typically have 58 facets, similar to modern round brilliant cuts, but they are arranged differently. Old mine cuts tend to have larger facets and a smaller table (the flat top surface), which results in a more subtle, almost “glowing” type of sparkle. They were cut by hand and designed to catch light from candlelight rather than electric light.

3. High Crown and Deep Pavilion

• Old mine cuts often feature a high crown (the top part of the diamond above the girdle) and a deep pavilion (the lower part of the diamond). This creates a chunkier profile compared to modern cuts and gives the diamond a unique depth.

4. Off-Center Culet

• These diamonds usually have a visible culet (the small flat facet at the bottom of the diamond), which is often larger than modern diamonds and sometimes slightly off-center due to the cutting techniques of the time.

5. Hand-Cut Charm

• Since old mine cut diamonds were cut by hand, no two are exactly alike. This makes them charming and one-of-a-kind, with slight imperfections that add character.

• age and the craftsmanship involved in cutting them add to their value and appeal.

7. Origin of the Name

• The term "old mine cut" refers to diamonds that were mined from the original diamond mines in India and Brazil before more modern cuts emerged. The name “mine” comes from the fact that they were cut near the diamond mines.

8. Less Light Performance Compared to Modern Cuts

• Because of the technology and techniques available at the time, old mine cut diamonds don’t have the same level of brilliance (light return) as modern diamonds. However, their more subdued, romantic glow is cherished by those who appreciate vintage diamonds.

If you're drawn to the antique, romantic feel of old mine cut diamonds, Morgan & Co Jewellery may have some beautiful options in their vintage collections!

How much do old mine cut diamonds cost? 

Old mine cut diamonds can sometimes be less expensive than modern cut diamonds, but this depends on several factors, such as their size, quality, and rarity. Here’s why:

1. Less Precision in Cutting

• Old mine cut diamonds are less precisely cut than modern brilliant-cut diamonds. Their facets and symmetry are not as refined due to the hand-cutting techniques of the time. Because they don’t reflect light as efficiently as modern diamonds, they can be valued lower from a purely "light performance" standpoint.

2. Rarity and Demand

• However, because old mine cut diamonds are antique and rare, they can also command higher prices, especially for those who appreciate vintage jewelry or desire a unique, one-of-a-kind stone. If you're looking for a truly antique diamond from a specific era (Georgian, Victorian, etc.), the rarity can drive up the cost.

3. Quality and Condition

• Like any diamond, the value of an old mine cut depends on the 4Cs: carat, cut, clarity, and colour. High-quality, well-preserved old mine cut diamonds, especially those with excellent clarity and colour, can be more expensive than modern diamonds of similar size and quality. Here at Morgan & Co Jewellery, Sunshine Coast, we are experts in sourcing such a special diamond within your budget. 
  

5. Supply vs. Demand

• The supply of old mine cut diamonds is limited since they are no longer being produced. This limited availability can sometimes make them more expensive, especially if they are in good condition or set in a desirable antique piece of jewellery.

Overall, old mine cut diamonds can be either more affordable or more expensive than modern cuts, depending on factors like condition, quality, rarity, and the market you're buying from. If you're looking for a unique, vintage look, Morgan & Co Jewellery could have some excellent options at competitive prices.

Can you buy Lab grown old mine cut diamonds? 

No, you cannot buy old mine cut lab-grown diamonds in the traditional sense. The old mine cut refers specifically to diamonds that were cut by hand during the 18th and 19th centuries, long before lab-grown diamonds existed. However, there are some things to consider:

1. Lab-Grown Diamonds with Old Mine Cut Style

• Although you can't buy genuine antique old mine cut lab-grown diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can be cut into an old mine cut style. Morgan & Co Jewellery  specialise in replicating vintage cuts like the old mine cut, but using modern, lab-grown diamonds. This allows our clients to get the antique aesthetic with a lab-created stone.

2. Advantages of Lab-Grown Old Mine Cuts

• Affordability: Lab-grown diamonds are typically less expensive than natural diamonds, so you could get an old mine cut style at a more affordable price.

• Ethical and Sustainable: Lab-grown diamonds are a more eco-friendly and ethically sourced alternative to natural diamonds, which may appeal to buyers who want a vintage look but with a modern, sustainable approach.

• Exact vintage look you want without having to source a natural diamond.

If you’re looking for the aesthetic of an old mine cut combined with the advantages of a lab-grown diamond, Morgan & Co Jewellery might offer custom design services or be able to source lab-grown diamonds in that specific cut style. Book your complimentary consultation now.