The Legacy of the Old Mine Cushion
Welcome back to the Old Gem House blog! Today, we shine a spotlight on the Old Mine Cushion Diamond, a shape with a rich history dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras, this cut represents the evolution of diamond cutting, offering a unique blend of vintage charm and timeless beauty. The Old Mine Cushion features a soft, rounded shape with larger facets and a deep pavilion, creating a warm, romantic sparkle. Often found in engagement rings and vintage-inspired jewelry, this cut remains a beloved choice for those seeking the elegance and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The Story behind Old Mine Cushion
The Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond is a timeless classic, with origins tracing back to the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly during the Georgian and Victorian eras. Known for its distinctive square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, this vintage cut features a deep pavilion and larger facets, creating a soft, romantic sparkle that modern cuts can't replicate. Favored for its rich history and unparalleled warmth, the Old Mine Cushion continues to captivate those who seek a piece of the past, blending old-world craftsmanship with timeless elegance. Ideal for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry, it remains a symbol of enduring beauty and sophistication.
How the Old Mine Cushion Diamond Got Its Name
The name "Old Mine Cushion Diamond" comes from two key aspects: the Old Mine Cut and the cushion shape. The term "Old Mine" refers to the 18th-century cutting style developed before modern diamond-cutting techniques emerged, often associated with diamonds mined in early sources like Brazil. The "cushion" refers to the diamond’s distinctive square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, resembling the soft, pillow-like form of a cushion. This combination of the Old Mine Cut and the cushion shape gives the diamond its vintage charm, reflecting the craftsmanship of a bygone era while maintaining a timeless appeal.
The Dimensions of an Old Mine Cushion Diamond
The Old Mine Cushion Diamond typically has a length to width ratio of 1.00 to 1.10, making it more square, with a smaller table size (50% to 60%) for a softer, vintage sparkle. It features a high crown (15% to 20%), a deeper pavilion (40% to 45%), and a total depth of 60% to 70%, giving it a warm, romantic glow. The thicker girdle adds durability, making this cut a timeless choice for vintage-inspired jewelry.
Why Choose Old Mine Cushion?
Choosing Old Mine Cushion Diamond Jewelry offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and vintage charm. With its rich history dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, this diamond cut stands out for its warm, romantic glow and soft sparkle, which modern cuts cannot replicate. The Old Mine Cushion features a deep pavilion and high crown, enhancing its ability to reflect light in a way that creates a vintage fire. Ideal for those who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and a romantic aesthetic, Old Mine Cushion diamonds make stunning choices for engagement rings, heirloom pieces, and other fine jewelry. Choosing this cut means selecting a piece of history that combines old-world craftsmanship with enduring beauty.