From the early 18th to the late 19th century, a mine-cut diamond was the most popular diamond cut. Its appearance evokes a rich history of the diamond jewelry trade where Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian styles featured this type of cut. By then, diamonds were measured with naked eyes and cut by hand. Read on to get a deep insight into it.
History Of Mine Cut Diamond
The history of old mine-cut diamonds dates back to the early 1800s. During this era, diamond cutters' skills and perception were major players in defining each diamond's appearance, beauty and proportions.
The reign of old mine cut existed from the 18th to 19th after a transitional cut between mine cut and brilliant cut became a popular choice in the late 19th century.
Unlike modern diamonds that acquire names according to shapes, the name "Old mine cut" is associated with the origin of rough diamonds that were commonly used jewelry in the 18th and 19th centuries.
What Is A Mine Cut Diamond?
A mine cut diamond is a free hand-cut diamond featuring a small table, a high crown, a deep pavilion, a somewhat round to rectangular girdle, and a large faceted cutlet. Like the brilliant modern cut, the mine cut was designed to harness even the dimmest candlelight to give a charming sparkle.
Visual Characteristics of Mine Cut Diamonds
Some of the visual characteristics that define mine cut or old mine cut diamonds include:
Short Lower Half Facets
Compared to other classical diamonds like the European cut, the mine-cut has a shorter lower half facets and a deep pavilion. That is due to its large cutlet.
Deep Pavilion and a High Crown
The mine cut poses quite a high crown which is the upper part of the stone, above the girdle. Its deep pavilion, the lower section of the stone below the girdle, is incomparable with modern diamonds.
Large Culet
Old mine cut diamonds have a large cutlet. These cutlets are easily visible from above through its table to give the diamond a unique appearance.
Imperfect Symmetry
Like other antique cut diamonds, mine cut diamonds have imperfect facets and asymmetrical features due to naked eye measurement and are cut by hand. The interesting peculiarity makes them unique and beautiful.
58 Facets
Old mine cut diamonds were designed with a total of 58 facets with large culet inclusive.
Shop for Your Rings in Denver, CO
Whether you are looking for engagement or wedding rings, Acredo offers you various options, with each ring hand-selected and designed to match the quality as well as ensure maximum beauty. Visit our product page to view the various designs in our collection. You can also Call: (303) 593-0424 for more information.