The Old Mine Cut is a historical diamond cut, first popularized in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is an early version of the modern cushion cut, characterized by its deep pavilion, high crown, small table, and large culet. These diamonds were hand-cut by artisans, making each one unique, with a softer, romantic appeal compared to today’s precision-cut stones.
Key Features of an Old Mine Cut Diamond
1. Cushion-Like Shape
The Old Mine Cut has a rounded-square or cushion-like outline, often with slightly asymmetrical edges due to hand-cutting techniques.
2. Deep Pavilion & High Crown
A deep pavilion (bottom part of the diamond) gives the stone a noticeable depth, which was designed to enhance light reflection in candlelight.
The high crown (upper portion of the diamond) contributes to its distinctive, antique look.
3. Small Table & Large Culet
The table (flat top facet) is relatively small, which contrasts with modern cuts that have larger tables to maximize brilliance.
The culet (bottom facet) is large and visible from the top, creating a soft reflection within the diamond instead of the sharp brilliance seen in modern cuts.
4. Fewer, Larger Facets
Typically features 58 facets, but they are larger and chunkier compared to modern brilliant-cut diamonds, producing a softer, less fiery sparkle.
5. Hand-Faceted & Slightly Asymmetrical
Old Mine Cuts were hand-faceted without modern precision technology, often leading to slight variations in shape and symmetry.
History of the Old Mine Cut
Originated in the late 17th to early 18th century and became the dominant diamond cut of the Georgian and Victorian eras.
Named “Old Mine Cut” because many of these diamonds came from old mines in Brazil and India, before major diamond discoveries in Africa.
With the invention of more advanced cutting tools, the Old European Cut (a rounder, more symmetrical version) evolved from the Old Mine Cut in the late 19th century.
How Old Mine Cut Diamonds Compare to Modern Cuts
Feature Old Mine Cut Modern Cushion Cut Round Brilliant Cut
Shape Cushion-like, slightly irregular Cushion-like, precise symmetry Perfectly round
Facets Large, chunky facets Smaller, precision-cut facets Tiny, uniform facets
Table Small Medium Large
Culet Large, visible Small or non-existent Very small or none
Brilliance Soft glow, optimized for candlelight Bright and fiery brilliance Maximum brilliance
Cutting Method Hand-faceted Machine-faceted Machine-faceted
Why Choose an Old Mine Cut Diamond?
1. Vintage & Unique Charm
Ideal for antique-style engagement rings or heirloom jewelry.
No two Old Mine Cut diamonds are exactly alike, adding to their individuality.
2. Warmer, Romantic Glow
Their soft sparkle creates a more romantic, vintage feel, different from the sharp brilliance of modern cuts.
3. Ethical & Sustainable Choice
Since many Old Mine Cut diamonds are reclaimed or antique stones, they offer a more environmentally friendly and ethical alternative to newly mined diamonds.
4. Great for Those Who Love History
Owning an Old Mine Cut diamond means having a piece of history from the Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian era.