Diamond Shape Guide
Old Cut
Old mine cut and old European cut diamonds were hand-crafted before modern precision — producing warm, candlelit light.
Varies — hand-cut
About the Old Cut
Old cut diamonds encompass two historical cuts: the Old Mine Cut (cushion-shaped, pre-1890) and the Old European Cut (round, 1890-1930). Both were cut entirely by hand, long before modern laser and computer-guided cutting technology. They feature high crowns, small tables, large culets (the flat facet at the very bottom of the diamond), and chunky, asymmetric facets that produce a distinctive warm, romantic light — broad flashes rather than the pinpoint scintillation of modern cuts. Each old cut diamond is one-of-a-kind, bearing the mark of its individual cutter. They are increasingly sought after by collectors and those who appreciate the beauty of imperfection.
Characteristics
- High crown, small table, large culet
- Hand-faceted — each stone is unique
- Warm, broad light flashes (not modern sparkle)
- Historical — pre-modern cutting technology
Ideal Settings
- Antique
- Victorian-style
- Bespoke
- Heirloom
- Georgian collet
Advantages
- Every stone is one-of-a-kind — hand-cut character
- Warm, romantic light perfect for candlelit settings
- Historical provenance — a piece of diamond history
- Increasingly valuable as supply is finite
Considerations
- Cannot be compared using modern GIA cut grades
- Asymmetric facets may not appeal to all tastes
- Large culet is visible face-up — a feature, not a flaw
Size Guide
Old cut dimensions vary widely as each stone was hand-cut. Carat weight alone is not a reliable predictor of face-up size. We recommend viewing old cuts in person or via video to assess their unique character.
Book a Consultation
Speak to our Hatton Garden gemmologists about old cut diamonds for your bespoke piece.