Old Mine Diamonds are prized for their vintage charm, unique cut, and historical significance. Unlike modern diamonds, which are often cut to maximize brilliance and light performance, Old Mine Diamonds have a distinct shape and structure that influences both their carat weight and apparent size. Let’s dive into how carat weight and size work in Old Mine Diamonds, and what makes them so special.

The carat weight of a diamond refers to its size, with one carat equaling 0.2 grams. Old Mine Diamonds were often cut to preserve weight, with the goal of maximizing the size of the stone rather than focusing solely on maximizing brilliance. As a result, Old Mine Diamonds tend to have a wider, deeper shape compared to modern diamonds, making them appear larger than a modern diamond of the same carat weight.

For example, an Old Mine Diamond with a carat weight of 1.0ct may appear visually larger than a modern brilliant-cut 1.0ct diamond, thanks to the broad, flat top and deep pavilion (the bottom part of the diamond). This design feature means that the Old Mine Diamond has a more pronounced presence, often making it feel like a more dramatic statement despite having the same weight.

While Old Mine Diamonds are still available in a variety of carat weights, they were often cut to focus on beauty and size rather than the precision cut of modern diamonds. As a result, diamonds over 2.0ct were rare and often very sought after, especially in antique rings or jewelry.

The size of an Old Mine Diamond is more influenced by its cut than its carat weight. These diamonds tend to have a larger surface area relative to their weight, thanks to their square, cushion-like shape with rounded corners. This shape allows the diamond to appear bigger than a modern round diamond of the same carat weight. The deep faceting also adds to the stone’s perceived size by increasing its volume.

In contrast to modern diamonds that often have shallow, narrow shapes designed for brilliance, the Old Mine Cut is more chunky, with broad facets that give it a bold, vintage look. Because of this, Old Mine Diamonds tend to be perfect for buyers looking for vintage charm and bigger presence in their jewelry, even at lower carat weights.

As Old Mine Diamonds are much rarer than modern diamonds, larger stones are highly prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Diamonds over 1.5ct are considered large for this cut, while those exceeding 2.0ct or more are particularly rare and valuable. The scarcity of large Old Mine Diamonds means that when they are found, they often carry an additional historical significance, making them even more appealing to those looking for unique, antique pieces.

When choosing an Old Mine Diamond, it’s important to focus not only on the carat weight but also on the overall look and feel of the stone. Due to the broader shape and deep cut, even diamonds with a smaller carat weight can appear visually larger and more impressive than their modern counterparts. So,if you're drawn to vintage styles or looking for something with history and character, an Old Mine Diamond of a slightly lower carat weight could be just as impactful as a larger modern diamond.