Old mine cut diamonds may feel like the newest jewelry trend, and thanks to Taylor Swift’s engagement ring, the popularity of these diamonds is guaranteed to skyrocket. However, old mine cut diamonds have been around for centuries. These diamonds were the most common style in the 18th and 19th centuries, long before the standard cuts we know today. Each stone was hand-cut by artisans, often by candlelight, giving old mine cuts a distinctive charm that reflects romance, history, and individuality.
How to Recognize an Old Mine Cut vs. A Modern Cut Diamond
An old mine cut diamond is easy to spot by its soft square shape with rounded corners, tall top, small flat surface, and larger facets. These features were intentionally designed to sparkle in the glow of candlelit rooms, creating a soft, romantic brilliance. The term “old mine” itself comes from the fact that many of these diamonds were originally sourced from Brazil and India, which are considered the “old mines” before South African discoveries shifted global diamond production. Each stone carries with it a sense of heritage, artistry, and the imperfections that make it truly unique.
In contrast, modern cut diamonds were perfected in the early 20th century as cutting technology advanced. Unlike the hand-shaped old mine cuts, these diamonds are precisely engineered to maximize brilliance and fire under electric light, with up to 58 perfectly calculated facets. Their clean symmetry and intense sparkle have made them the most popular and widely recognized styles for engagement rings today. If old mine cuts give off the soft glow of candlelight, modern cuts are designed for maximum sparkle under any light.
The Meaning Behind These Styles
The differences are clear not only in their look but also in their mood. Old mine cuts carry a vintage, artistic, one-of-a-kind feel, while modern cuts symbolize timelessness and universal appeal. Old mine diamonds are often slightly irregular due to their hand-crafted nature, while modern cuts achieve flawless precision thanks to technology. One feels like a piece of history, the other a perfected icon of contemporary love.
Why Choose an Old Mine Cut Today?
So why might someone choose an old mine cut today? For many, it’s about individuality. No two stones are alike, and each carries a story. There’s also the sustainability angle, many old mine cut diamonds are antique or repurposed, making them an eco-conscious option. And, of course, with Taylor Swift’s ring now sparking global conversation, old mine cuts are poised for a major resurgence. Her choice proves that vintage can be just as relevant, if not more so, than the modern styles dominating the market.
Whether you’re drawn to the soft, romantic glow of an old mine cut or the bright, dazzling sparkle of a modern round brilliant, the beauty of a diamond lies in how it reflects your story. And with Taylor Swift leading the charge, (read about it in our post here) we may be witnessing the beginning of a new golden era for antique-inspired engagement rings.
Photo: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce/ Instagram
Old Mine Cuts on Our Website
With the growing popularity, we have brought old mine cut diamonds to our website, (click here) making them easy to shop with just one click.
Can Lab Grown Diamonds Be Old Mine Cuts?
And yes, if you’re wondering whether lab grown diamonds can be cut in the old mine style, the answer is absolutely. While antique mine cuts were originally done by hand centuries ago, modern cutters can recreate that same look and faceting style with lab grown diamonds. That means you can enjoy the romance of an antique-inspired cut with the benefits of a sustainable, ethical stone.
Old mine or modern cut, natural or lab grown, the most important thing is finding a ring that reflects your love story. And if Taylor Swift’s engagement is any indication, the world is ready to embrace the beauty of vintage once again.
