When it comes to antique diamonds, two popular cuts that were prevalent in the past are the Old Mine Cut and the Old European Cut. Both of these cuts have their own unique features that make them special and desirable. Read along to know more about these cuts.
Old Mine Cut
The Old Mine Cut, also known as the “Miner’s Cut,” was the primary diamond cut used in the 18th and 19th centuries. This cut is named after the mines in India, where diamonds were first discovered. The Old Mine Cut features a high crown, a small table, and a large culet.
The Old Mine Cut has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners. It has 58 facets, including a culet at the bottom that gives the diamond a unique look. The high crown of the Old Mine Cut helps to enhance the diamond’s brilliance and fire, making it appear brighter and more sparkling.
Old European Cut
The Old European Cut, also known as the “Old Euro Cut,” is a diamond cut that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This cut is characterized by a smaller table, a higher crown, and a smaller culet compared to the Old Mine Cut. The Old European Cut has a circular shape, and it has a total of 58 facets.
One of the most notable features of the Old European Cut is its high crown, which gives it a larger appearance compared to other diamond cuts. This cut was specifically designed to maximize the diamond’s fire, which is the way the diamond reflects light, creating a rainbow effect.
Comparison
When comparing the Old Mine Cut and the Old European Cut, the most noticeable difference is their shape. The Old Mine Cut has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, while the Old European Cut has a circular shape. Another difference is their faceting. The Old Mine Cut has a larger culet, while the Old European Cut has a smaller one.
The Old European Cut has a higher crown, which gives it a larger appearance compared to the Old Mine Cut. The Old Mine Cut has a high crown, but it is not as high as the Old European Cut. The Old European Cut was specifically designed to maximize the diamond’s fire, while the Old Mine Cut was designed to maximize the diamond’s weight.
The value of these two cuts depends on several factors, including their rarity, age, and their condition. Both the Old Mine Cut and the Old European Cut are considered antique cuts, and they are highly valued by collectors and connoisseurs.