Morgan & Co Jewellery Sunshine Coast are specialists in sourcing old mine cut diamonds. As we approach 2025, we anticipate a resurgence in this timeless diamond cut, with more clients incorporating it into their engagement ring designs.

So, what exactly is an old mine cut diamond? An old mine cut diamond is a historic style of diamond cutting, popular in the 18th and 19th centuries during the Georgian and Victorian periods. This cut stands out for its antique charm, and it’s a design that has captured the attention of many of our clients at Morgan & Co. "Couples looking for something unique, rather than the increasingly common lab-grown diamonds, are turning to old mine cut diamonds for their special day,” we’ve noticed through frequent inquiries.

Old Mine Cut Diamond: History and Significance

• Origin of the Name: The term "old mine cut" comes from diamonds initially sourced from the early mines in India and Brazil, predating the discovery of diamonds in South Africa.

• Early Brilliance: While not as dazzling as modern round brilliant cuts, old mine cut diamonds have a distinct charm and warmth, especially when viewed under candlelight.

• Hand-Cut Craftsmanship: Each old mine cut diamond was hand-cut by a craftsman, giving every stone its own unique set of proportions and details. This individuality is a major draw for lovers of antique jewellery, as no two stones are exactly alike.

Key Features that Distinguish Old Mine Cut Diamonds from Modern or Lab-Grown Cuts:

• Cushion Shape: Old mine cuts typically feature a cushion or soft, rounded square shape, rather than the perfect roundness of modern cuts.

• High Crown, Small Table: The crown is higher, and the table (the flat top facet) is smaller than what you'd see on contemporary diamonds, providing a vintage aesthetic that reflects light more subtly.

• Large Facets: These diamonds were cut with larger facets, designed to sparkle in candlelight, making the glow more romantic and understated than modern brilliance.

• Deep Pavilion: The deep pavilion creates a slightly chunkier and more substantial appearance.

• Open Culet: The culet, or the bottom tip of the diamond, is flat and open rather than pointed, another hallmark of antique diamond cutting.

Why Choose an Old Mine Cut Diamond?

• Antique Appeal: For those with a love of history and vintage designs, old mine cut diamonds offer a beautiful connection to the past and a distinct look that’s different from today’s high-tech diamond cuts.

• Romantic Uniqueness: The imperfect symmetry and larger facets give the diamond a softer glow, and many find the individuality of each stone adds a unique, personal touch to their engagement ring.

• Eco-Friendly Choice: Selecting a vintage or antique diamond, like an old mine cut, means you’re choosing a more sustainable option, avoiding the need for new mining.

Are Old Mine Cut Diamonds Expensive? The price of an old mine cut diamond can vary, depending on factors like rarity, size, quality, and demand:

• Rarity: Since these diamonds are no longer being cut, their limited availability increases their value. Their historical significance adds another layer of appeal, making them more desirable to collectors and vintage jewellery enthusiasts.

• Size and Carat: Larger old mine cut diamonds are rarer and can command higher prices. Smaller stones, particularly those with imperfections, may be more affordable.

• Cut and Quality: While modern diamonds aim for symmetry and brilliance, old mine cut diamonds were cut by hand, leading to less standardisation. Those with better proportions and brilliance will generally be more expensive, though the imperfections of lower-priced stones still hold great charm.

At Morgan & Co, we’ve found that many of our clients are drawn to these less-than-perfect stones because of their distinctive character, which gives their engagement ring a sense of individuality.

Old Mine Cut vs. Modern Diamonds While old mine cut diamonds may sometimes be priced lower than modern round brilliant diamonds due to their lower brilliance, higher-quality examples or those set in rare vintage rings can be comparable or even more expensive than modern diamonds.

Why an Old Mine Cut Diamond Could be Perfect for Your Engagement Ring

• Unique and One-of-a-Kind: Hand-cut old mine diamonds ensure that no two stones are identical. Their unique shapes and imperfections add character and personality to your engagement ring, making it as unique as your love story.

• Romantic Vintage Charm: Steeped in history, an old mine cut diamond evokes a sense of timeless romance. Their soft glow is perfect for those who prefer an understated vintage aesthetic over the sharp brilliance of modern diamonds.

• Sustainable Choice: Opting for a vintage diamond is an environmentally conscious decision. These diamonds were mined long ago, and choosing a recycled stone avoids contributing to new mining activities.

• Affordable with Character: Old mine cut diamonds often offer a better value than modern diamonds. Their appeal lies not in perfection but in the charm of their historical context and distinctive appearance.

Pairing Old Mine Cut Diamonds with Modern Designs At Morgan & Co, we believe that old mine cut diamonds look beautiful in both vintage-inspired and modern settings. For a traditional vintage feel, we recommend pairing an old mine cut with intricate detailing or a halo of smaller diamonds. For a more contemporary look, a simple solitaire setting can showcase the diamond’s antique beauty with a sleek, modern touch.

Timeless and Unique If you're searching for an engagement ring that combines historical allure, individuality, and enduring beauty, an old mine cut diamond is a wonderful choice. Its romantic, vintage charm brings a touch of the past into your future, creating an engagement ring that tells a story as unique as your own.

At Morgan & Co Jewellery, we specialise in sourcing these exceptional diamonds, helping you find the perfect stone to celebrate your everlasting commitment. Book your complementary consultation to learn more about old mine cut diamonds on the Sunshine Coast. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Cut Diamonds

1. What is an old cut diamond?

An old cut diamond refers to a diamond cut by hand before modern cutting techniques were developed. These diamonds, including old mine cuts and old European cuts, were designed to sparkle beautifully under candlelight, giving them a unique vintage charm.

2. What is the difference between an old mine cut and an old European cut?

Old mine cut diamonds have a cushion-like shape with a high crown, small table, and a large open culet, while old European cut diamonds are rounder with more symmetrical facets and a slightly higher brilliance. Both are vintage cuts, but old mine cuts are typically older, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

3. Why do old cut diamonds have an open culet?

The open culet (a flat facet at the bottom of the diamond) was intentionally cut to reduce the risk of chipping. This was a common practice before precision cutting tools existed. Today, it adds to the vintage appeal of old cut diamonds.

4. Do old cut diamonds sparkle as much as modern diamonds?

Old cut diamonds have a different type of sparkle compared to modern brilliant cuts. They reflect light in broader, more dramatic flashes rather than the continuous sparkle of modern diamonds. Their beauty shines best in soft lighting, giving them a romantic and warm glow.

5. Are old cut diamonds more expensive than modern diamonds?

The price of an old cut diamond depends on its rarity, quality, and demand. Some old mine cut or old European cut diamonds can be more affordable than modern cuts, but high-quality or rare vintage diamonds can be just as expensive, if not more.

6. Are old cut diamonds considered sustainable?

Yes! Since they are antique and pre-mined, choosing an old cut diamond is an eco-friendly option. It avoids the need for new mining, making it a sustainable choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.

7. Can I get an old cut diamond in a modern engagement ring setting?

Absolutely! Old cut diamonds pair beautifully with both vintage-inspired and modern settings. A simple solitaire setting highlights their uniqueness, while intricate or halo designs enhance their antique charm.

8. How do I know if an old cut diamond is authentic?

Authentic old cut diamonds will have hand-cut facets, a deeper pavilion, a high crown, and an open culet. If you’re purchasing one, always work with a trusted jeweller who specialises in antique diamonds, like Morgan & Co.

9. Can old cut diamonds be recut into modern shapes?

While old cut diamonds can be recut into modern brilliant shapes, doing so removes their vintage character and historical charm. Many prefer to keep them in their original form to preserve their uniqueness and value.

10. Why should I choose an old cut diamond for my engagement ring?

If you love history, romance, and individuality, an old cut diamond is a perfect choice. Each stone is unique, with a soft, warm sparkle that stands out from modern diamonds. It’s also a meaningful, sustainable option for those who appreciate antique jewellery.