Gemstone Shapes and Antique Diamonds

When looking for the perfect jewel, the most important factor is the gemstone. The shape of the gem, whether it’s a diamond or a color stone, plays a big role in the overall design of your jewelry piece. Learn more about diamond and color stone shapes!

Shapes are easy to understand. When looking at engagement rings, soon-to-be couples first decide on the diamond shape they are looking for. Here are some of the most common shapes.

These shapes also apply to all other gemstones, not just diamonds.

At Jack Weir & Sons we specialize in, love, and adore antique cut diamonds. Amongst them are Old European, Old Mine, Antique Cushion, Rose cuts, and also antique variations of modern-day pears, marquise, and others.

So, What is an antique diamond?

Antique Cut Diamonds are diamonds that were mined from the earth and cut by hand somewhere between the 1300s and 1930s before precision cutting was developed.

Antique Cuts are very charming and romantic. They are known and cherished for their larger facets, open culets, and even irregular shapes. At Jack Weir & Sons we often say that looking into the culet is like looking into your diamond's soul. While modern cut diamonds have a very distinguishable sparkle, Antique diamonds have a softer and more sophisticated glow. It’s the charming look, the soulful appeal, and the history, that make you fall in love with antique cut diamonds!

Since most of these diamonds were cut in the 1800s, they were meant to be viewed in candlelight. Offering its owners a soft glow and romantic appeal. Whether you are a first-time diamond buyer or an antique collector, you will quickly develop a taste for these charming diamonds full of rich history!

It is very common and is absolutely alright for antique diamonds to range in color from J through O, or even lower. The beautiful thing is that antique diamonds tend to face up much whiter than their color grade. For this reason, it’s important to look beyond the paperwork when choosing an antique diamond. It's possible to find antique diamonds with higher color grade, consequently, their value will be higher.

Similar to modern diamonds, antique cuts are priced based on their carat weight, color, clarity, and overall beauty. Diamond’s age and cultural significance also add historical value to the diamond.

Old Mine Cut

If you’ve been on a hunt for an antique engagement ring, you’ve probably heard this secretive name. Old Mine cut diamonds are the precursors of modern cushion cut diamonds. In the trade, they are also called “Antique Cushion” or “Miner Cut”. Diamonds of this shape were ultra-popular during the Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco eras, and are often set in the most beautiful and intricate antique mountings. Old Mines vary in shapes from case to case basis, sometimes they can even be asymmetrical, elongated, more round, or more square. Generally, Old Mine is best described as a rounded square.

Here are some examples of Old Mine Cut Diamond Engagement Rings we currently have for sale.

Old European Cut

Old Euros came before modern round brilliants. Old European Cut Diamonds were extremely popular during the Art Deco era. Known for their large facets and open culets, these perfect round diamonds are all one of a kind and rare! Due to their limited supply and antique nature, fewer Old Euros are available for sale. Here are some Old European Cut Diamond Engagement Rings that are currently available:

Why Choose an Antique Cut Diamond?

If you are someone who loves antiques and appreciates history, an antique diamond would be perfect for you. Since every Antique Cut diamond was cut by hand, there is no other diamond like yours. Plus they have that gorgeous soft gold, soulful presence, and romantic appearance.

Another good reason to OPT-in for an antique diamond is sustainability. You are choosing a diamond that’s being repurposed and given a new life, rather than causing the environmental and social impact of mining a new diamond. Nowadays, conflict-free diamonds are extremely popular. You can be confident in making a socially conscious and environmentally-friendly choice.

Other Gemstone Shapes That Were Loved In The Past And Are Cherished Now. Click on the ring for details.

Rose Cut