We are in the thick of engagement season — the period between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day when, amid family gatherings and the sparkle of holiday festivities, proposals proliferate. And in choosing the stone for the rings that accompany those proposals, the soon-to-be affianced are currently gravitating toward old-mine-cut diamonds. One of our favorite examples of the style is this Edwardian platinum and diamond ring featuring a two-carat old-mine-cut center stone.
“This is a truly stunning Edwardian platinum, old-mine-diamond engagement ring, dating to between 1900 and 1910, as evidenced by its distinctive construction and period design,” says Shawn Eshaghian, of the Antique Parlour, which is offering the jewel on 1stDibs. “What makes this ring especially captivating is the beautifully chunky old-mine–cut diamond at the center, appearing to float, surrounded by a halo of sparkling accent diamonds that enhance its antique charm.”
A couple of factors explain the current popularity of old-mine-cut diamonds. One is that their soft, warm glow and distinctive character stand in stark contrast to the showy dazzle of newly cut or lab-grown stones, so those for whom a natural diamond is a must can be sure they have the real item. The second is that when Taylor Swift got engaged last summer, her Kindred Lubeck ring featured a large old-mine-cut diamond set in the hand-engraved gold band, which put the style on the radar of a wide audience.
“There has been a noticeable resurgence in the desire for antique diamonds and vintage jewelry, as more clients seek pieces that are genuinely unique and rich with history,” Eshaghian says. “These older diamonds are celebrated as small works of art — each one distinct — offering an appealing alternative to modern mass-produced designs that often look identical.”
Indeed, the difference between antique and newly cut diamonds is similar to that between a glowing candle and a shining LED bulb. The slight imperfections of hand-cut gems give them a particular allure, and perhaps the most apt message to set expectations for marriage is that nobody is perfect.
Asked whom he could imagine wearing this ring, Eshaghian points to someone with “an individual sense of style who values artistry and character in their jewelry.” He adds, “It sits low on the finger and carries an unmistakable presence, setting the wearer apart and making a quiet yet powerful statement of refined, timeless taste.”
