Types of Antique Diamonds

Diamonds used in antique jewelry are completely different from those used in modern jewelry. Often many are drawn to diamonds in antique jewelry due to the soft romantic glow they provide. Most antique diamonds will have a smaller table, higher crown, deeper pavilion and thicker girdle than modern diamonds.

Antique diamonds were originally cut in order to maximize the carat weight and not the “fire”. This is why antique diamonds are very different from modern diamonds. Until the early 1900s antique diamonds were cut by hand which was a very time consuming process. Regrettably many antique diamonds have been re-cut with modern methods. As a result demand for antique diamonds has increased in recent years as well as the prices. Consider some of the cuts you will find in antique diamonds.

First there is the Rose Cut. These diamonds were first introduced in the 1500s and were quite popular up until the 1900s. A Rose Cut diamond is named because it looks like the petals of a rose bud. The bottom is often flat with a dome shaped crown and the facets meeting at a point in the center. For these diamonds the number of facets can include 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24.

Second there is the Old Mine cut which is the earliest form of the brilliant cut today. Sometimes this can also be referred to as the Cushion Cut because of the cushioned shaped girdle. With this diamond cut you will see a high crown, small table, deep pavilion and large culet.

Lastly there is the Old European cut which has a very small table, heavy crown and great depth overall. This was the fore-runner cut before the brilliant cut that is often used today. This diamond cut had a circular girdle like the modern brilliant round cut diamond.

For more information about antique diamonds please visit, www.doverjewelry.com.