A History of Old Cut Diamonds

Old Cut Diamonds, also known as antique or vintage diamonds, have a unique charm and elegance that sets them apart from modern diamonds. These diamonds were cut by hand by skilled artisans before the advent of modern cutting techniques. They are characterized by their large facets, high crowns, and small tables.

The history of Old Cut Diamonds dates back to the 4th century when diamonds were first discovered in India. The early diamond cutters were mostly Indian and used simple tools such as a bow drill and sand to shape the stones. These early diamonds were often irregular in shape and size.

The oldest diamonds emanate from the Golconda mine in India. Some of the most famous Golconda stones include the Agra Diamond, the Hope Diamond at the Smithsonian, the Koh-i-Noor which forms part of the British Crown Jewels, the Darya-i-Nur in Iran, and The Princie Diamond.

The great Venetian merchant and explorer, Marco Polo (1254–1324),who was instrumental in opening trade with the East, wrote:

“No country but India produces diamonds. Those which are brought to our part of the world are only the refuse, as it were, of the finer and larger stones. For the flower of the diamonds are all carried to the Great Khan and other kings and princes of the region. In truth they possess all the treasures of the world.” Marco Polo (1254–1324)

The diamond which reached the West were traded through Venice. 

In the 14th century, new cutting techniques were developed in Europe, which allowed diamonds to be cut into more symmetrical shapes. By the 16th century, diamond cutting had become an art form, with skilled artisans cutting diamonds into shapes such as the rose cut and the table cut, followed later by the Old Mine Cut in the early 1700s.

Old Mine Cut diamonds were cut by hand and had a cushion shape with a high crown and small table, with their shape dictated by the natural shape of the diamond crystal. They were admired for their fire and brilliance and are the ancestor of todays brilliant cut diamond. As techniques developed, the Old European Cut was perfected, delivering a more rounded shape.

In the early 20th century, new cutting techniques were developed that allowed diamonds to be cut with more precision. The round brilliant cut, which has become the most popular diamond shape today, was developed in the early 1900s. This cut has a much larger table and smaller culet than the Old European Cut, which gives it its trademark glittering appearance.

Despite the popularity of modern diamond cuts, Old Cut Diamonds continue to be highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of vintage jewellery. Their unique charm and elegance, unsurpassable fire, rarity and history, make them a valuable addition to any collection.