Old European Cut Diamonds Guide for Your Ring

Jewelery is an emotion for most individuals all across the globe. When selecting a stone for your engagement ring, the choices available may seem endless. One cute and distinctive option is the Old European cut diamond.
Being one of the oldest diamond cuts, this cut is perfect for those who are fine with getting a distinctive, traditional cut. In this guide, you will find out what Old European cut diamonds are, their history, and how to buy an appropriate diamond for your ring.

Key Takeaways:

1. Discover the rich history and unique characteristics of old European-cut diamonds. 2. Learn how these antique gems compare to modern cuts and understand their captivating light play. 3. Explore the factors influencing quality and practical tips for finding your perfect old European-cut diamond. 4. Gain inspiration from real-life stories and celebrity choices to embrace the magic of vintage jewelry.

What Are Old European-Cut Diamonds?

Old European cut diamonds, also known as “Old Euros,” are a style of cut of diamond that was used between the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. These diamonds stand for round shape, high crown, small table, and large open culet. Old European cuts are not machine-produced, as are the round brilliant cuts. Hence, every diamond carries its own personality.

History of Old European-Cut Diamonds

Old European cut is one of the closest predecessors to the round brilliant cut. This cut was the most preferred from the Victorian period up to the beginning of the Edwardian and Art Deco periods. This cut also reveals the fact that diamond cutting in the past was done by hand and with less precision tools. This was intended to bring out the best of the diamond under natural light, and this resulted in a higher crown and deeper pavilion.

Characteristics of Old European Cut Diamonds

It is important to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of Old European cut diamonds to be able to fully appreciate the stone you have and to select the best one for your engagement ring.

• Shape: Old European cuts are round with a cushion-like appearance.
• Crown and Pavilion: They have a high crown and deep pavilion, which further increases their glitter and richness.
• Culet: Another characteristic is the exposed culet, which is located towards the bottom, between the table and pavilion.
• Faceting: These diamonds have fewer larger facets than modern cuts, and that’s why they have that old-looking glitter.
• Table: The table, or the flat surface on the top of the diamond, is smaller than in modern cuts.

Why Should You Opt for the Old European Cut Diamond?

1. Vintage Charm: These diamonds look much older and more antique, and nothing like the modern cuts can replicate them.
2. Unique Sparkle: Due to the big segments and high crowns, they shine in another way, which is not typical for modern diamonds.
3. Handcrafted Beauty: Old European cut diamonds are all handmade, which means that the diamonds have their own individual traits.
4. Sustainability: Selecting a vintage diamond essentially helps preserve the beauty of a unique stone without the necessity of mining for a new one.

Selecting the Right Old European Cut Diamond

When choosing an Old European cut diamond, the following tips can guide you on how to choose the best diamond for your ring.

1. Consider the Four Cs

Just like modern diamonds, Old European cuts are evaluated based on the Four Cs: The four C's are: Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut.
Carat: The cut of the diamond. Rings with higher carat weight are scarcer and may cost more than those with a lower carat weight.
Color: The color of the Old European cut diamond may also be warmer because of its age. Some people may like this kind of warm tone from the old camera, while others may want the stones to be whiter.
Clarity: Similar to other diamonds, clarity simply means the inclusions or blemishes within or on the outside of the diamond. Some are unavoidable due to age, but they complement the diamond and make it unique.
Cut: Modern diamonds are cut according to the cut scale, while Old European cuts are not. Rather, think about the balance, the plane layout, and the quality of work that has been put into it.

2. Evaluate the Overall Appearance

Look at the diamond from different angles and in various lighting conditions. Indeed, the light reflection is different in an Old European cut diamond compared to today’s cuts, which is why it is best to see it sparkle.

3. Set a Budget

Old European cut diamonds can cost a lot of money and are different from each other. Thus, setting a budget will help limit your choices to a few and get the most out of your money.

Styling the Old European Cut Diamonds

Selecting the right style is important to enhance the beauty of an old European-cut diamond engagement ring or any jewelry piece.
1. Solitaire: An iconic decision that allows the stone to shine through in the center stage.
2. Halo: Situated around the focus diamond, it makes the central diamond appear larger and even brighter.
3. Vintage: It beautifully complements the antique allure of the diamond with added filigree and milgrain detailing.
4. Bezel: Grasps the diamond and surrounds it with a metal band, providing a layer of cover and stylishness.
5. Three-Stone: Two other, slightly smaller diamonds are set on the sides of the center stone, signifying the past, present, and future.

How to Take Care of Your Old European-Cut Diamond?

For your Old European cut diamonds to remain beautiful and as brilliant as they are, the right care should be observed.

• Cleaning: To maintain your diamond’s brilliance and shine, wash it gently with mild soap and water. Do not use chemicals that can affect the environment or diamond setting.
• Storage: You should also keep your ring in a piece of cloth or in a separate box or pouch to prevent it from getting scratched.
• Regular Checkups: It is recommended that one take the ring to a reputable jeweler for an assessment to ascertain whether the setting is intact and whether the diamond is in a pristine state.

Conclusion

It is evident that old European cut diamonds add a classic and sophisticated feel to any ring. Collectively handcrafted, of the past, and with a sparkle that is different from that of mass production, they are both beautiful and meaningful.
Thus, bearing in mind the Four Cs, the characteristics of Old European cut diamonds, and choosing the appropriate setting, you will be able to select the suitable piece for your ring. Whether it is their appeal related to the years gone by or the environmental impact of the diamond that catches the fancy of people, these diamonds present a different dimension to love and marriage.

 FAQS

1. Are old European cut diamonds more valuable?
They can be more valuable due to their unique craftsmanship and historical significance, especially if they are of high quality.

2. What does "Old European cut diamond" mean?
It refers to a diamond cut popular from the 1890s to the 1930s, characterized by a round shape, high crown, small table, deep pavilion, and large open culet.

3. Are old European-cut diamonds ethical?
Yes, they are considered more ethical because they are recycled and don't involve new mining activities.

4. Are old cut diamonds rare?
Yes, they are rare, as they are no longer produced and are mostly found in vintage jewelry.

5. Are old diamonds worth anything?
Yes, they can be quite valuable, especially if they have high quality and historical significance.

6. When did old, European-cut diamonds stop?
They fell out of favor in the 1930s with the advent of the round, brilliant cut.

7. Can a jeweler tell how old a diamond is?
Yes, an experienced jeweler can estimate the age based on its cut style and overall appearance.

8. How can you tell if a diamond is vintage?
A diamond is vintage if it features old cut styles, is set in a historical design, and is typically 20–30 years old.