Old Mine Cut Diamond Value Guide

The Old Mine Cut diamond represents the pinnacle of Georgian and Victorian craftsmanship, hand-faceted by master cutters between 1850 and 1890. Originating from Brazil, these unique stones were specifically engineered to maximize fire and romantic brilliance under the soft glow of candlelight.

What affects the value of Old Mine Cut Diamond?

• Carat weight and dimensions, as these stones were hand-cut rather than standardized.
• The presence of the original high crown and deep pavilion which preserves the 19th-century aesthetic.
• Clarity and color grades, though warmer tones are often expected in authentic 1850-1890 Brazilian diamonds.
• The precision of the hand-faceting and the overall quality of the stone's 'fire' under low light.

How to Identify Old Mine Cut Diamond?

• Look for a distinct cushion-shaped outline with a high crown and a deep pavilion.
• Identify a large, flat culet at the bottom of the stone, which is visible through the table.
• Observe the hand-cut facets which are typically larger and less symmetrical than modern machine-cut diamonds.
• Check for a small table facet relative to the overall diameter of the stone.

History of Old Mine Cut Diamond

Developed in the 1700s, the Old Mine Cut was the primary diamond cut during the Georgian and Victorian eras. These stones were hand-faceted by master cutters before the invention of modern machinery, making each gem unique. They were designed to sparkle under candlelight, giving them a distinct fire and romantic glow that modern brilliant cuts lack.