Old Mine Cut: The Crown Jewel of Vintage Diamond Cuts
Named after India's historic diamond mines, the old mine cut is among the most sought-after vintage diamond cuts. This classic diamond cut features a softened square shape with rounded corners, high crown, and small table with 58 facets creating mesmerising brilliance. Popular during the Victorian Era (1837-1901), it remains treasured for its romantic, old-world appeal in engagement rings.
Old European Cut: The Predecessor to Modern Brilliance
The old European cut features a rounded table and larger, triangular facets similar to modern brilliant cuts but with distinctive character. Popular from the mid-1870s to 1930s, it offers enhanced sparkle compared to earlier cuts while maintaining vintage diamond cut elegance.
Rose Cut: Timeless Simplicity
Dating to the 1500s, the rose cut represents one of the original antique gemstone cuts. With its flat back, domed top, and triangular facets arranged like a rose's inner spiral, it emphasises minimalist beauty and natural form – particularly stunning in vintage-inspired settings.
Victorian Era (1837-1901): Romance and Symbolism
The Victorian period established many classic diamond cuts we admire today, characterised by old mine cuts, symbolic designs featuring romantic motifs, rich yellow gold settings, and emphasis on sentimental value.
Art Deco Era (1920s-1930s): Geometric Precision
The Art Deco period introduced new approaches to vintage diamond cuts with carré cuts featuring sharp geometric lines, French cuts with distinctive cross patterns, emphasis on symmetry, and integration with coloured gemstones.
Edwardian Era (1901-1910): Delicate Elegance
This influential period refined old European cuts, introduced platinum settings, created lace-like delicate designs, and focused on diamond quality and brilliance.
Why Choose Antique Cut Diamonds Today?
- Unparalleled Character
Each LINDELLI vintage cut is specially commissioned and precision-cut to the highest standard — making every diamond truly one of a kind. These vintage-inspired shapes embrace subtle nuances that give them warmth, soul, and personality. It’s not just a diamond — it’s a piece with presence, cut just for you. Unlike natural vintage cuts, which are limited to what’s already in circulation, LINDELLI’s lab-grown vintage cuts are made to order. You can choose the carat, length-to-width ratio, and more — resulting in a diamond that’s not only timeless, but truly tailored to you. - Modern Craft, Timeless Spirit
Our lab-grown vintage cuts honour centuries of diamond-cutting tradition, combining historical proportions with cutting-edge technology. The result? Old-world charm, brought to life with modern precision and sustainability. - Distinctive Beauty
With larger facets and softer proportions, vintage cuts deliver a romantic glow that dances in low light — perfect for intimate moments and timeless settings. They don’t just sparkle. They glow. - A Rarity Reimagined
While true antique cuts are limited in number, LINDELLI’s lab-grown vintage cuts offer the rare aesthetic of the past — reimagined for today. Ethically created and expertly crafted, they’re heirloom-worthy from the start.
Lindelli's Approach to Antique Cut Diamonds
At Lindelli, we understand that the beauty of old diamond cuts lies in their imperfections and handcrafted nature. Our specialised collection features lab-grown diamonds carefully cut to replicate the proportions and characteristics of these historic gems.
Our master craftsmen combine modern technology with traditional techniques to create lab-grown diamonds that honour the spirit of vintage diamond cuts while ensuring exceptional quality. By choosing lab-grown antique cut diamonds, you embrace both environmental responsibility and historical appreciation.
Caring for Your Antique Cut Diamond
While antique cut diamonds are just as durable as more modern cuts, settings still require special care.. Avoid harsh chemicals, ensure regular professional cleaning and inspection, handle gently to preserve delicate settings, and store properly to prevent scratching.
Regular professional care ensures your antique cut diamond remains beautiful for generations through annual inspection, proper cleaning techniques, prong tightening, and expert restoration when needed.
The Future of Antique Cut Diamonds
As appreciation for vintage diamond cuts continues to grow, these classic diamond cuts are experiencing a renaissance. Modern couples increasingly seek engagement rings that tell a story and reflect their appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
Today's jewellers are incorporating old diamond cuts into contemporary settings, creating mixed-cut designs that combine antique and modern elements, and developing innovative applications that honour traditional techniques while meeting modern preferences.
Embracing Timeless Beauty
At Lindelli, we're proud to offer exceptional pieces that blend historical significance with modern craftsmanship. Our collection of antique cut diamond rings allows you to own a piece of history while embracing sustainable luxury.
Ready to explore the timeless beauty of antique and vintage diamond engagement rings? Visit our Sydney atelier to discover these exquisite pieces that blend history with modern craftsmanship. Contact Lindelli today to schedule your private consultation and discover the enduring allure of antique cut diamonds.
FAQs
What is the difference between an antique and an old mine cut?
"Antique" is a broad category of vintage diamond cuts, while "old mine cut" is one specific type. The old mine cut features a softened square shape with rounded corners, high crown, small table, and 58 facets. It was popular during the Victorian Era (1837-1901).
How can you tell if a diamond is an antique?
Antique-style diamonds are defined by their larger facets, higher crowns, and smaller tables — characteristics that create a softer, more romantic glow. Unlike the intense brilliance of modern cuts, these facets catch and reflect light with a striking, almost candlelit ease. In LINDELLI’s lab-grown vintage cuts, these historic proportions are reimagined with precision — blending old-world charm with modern clarity and consistency. Each cut holds a unique personality and timeless appeal.
What does an antique cut diamond mean?
Antique cut diamonds are cutting styles popular before modern precision techniques. They were hand-cut and measured by eye, creating organic, handcrafted quality with larger facets, higher crowns, and smaller tables that produce distinctive light play.
When did they stop making old cut diamonds?
Different antique cuts fell out of favor at various times throughout history. The Rose Cut, dating from the 1500s, gradually became less popular over centuries. The Old Mine Cut was primarily popular during the Victorian Era (1837-1901), while the Old European Cut dominated from the mid-1870s to 1930s. Art Deco styles flourished in the 1920s-1930s before modern precision cutting techniques largely replaced these traditional hand-cutting methods by the mid-20th century. Antique cuts have made a modern return, especially through lab-grown diamonds, whose broad facets catch the light in a way that feels both timeless and refreshingly contemporary.
What is the difference between old and antique diamonds?
The terms are often used interchangeably for vintage cutting styles. Both refer to diamonds cut before modern precision methods. "Antique" is the broader category, while "old cut" often refers to specific styles like Old Mine Cut or Old European Cut. Both share hand-cut craftsmanship and organic irregularities.
