There are a variety of diamond styles and types available to the gem-buying public. Some stones take on a more modern look whereas others have a desirable antiquated feel to them. One type of diamond which has a feel of the past is the Old Mine Cut diamond. Known as the "Old Miner" to many, this particular gemstone has various qualities which make it unique and a good option for jewelry buyers everywhere.

What Does This Gemstone Look Like?

There are certain characteristics which make it easier for those knowledgeable with the jewelry field to identify an Old Mine Cut diamond. This type of stone has a small table, high crown, flat bottom culet and square shape with rounded edges. One of the main telltale signs of a well made Old Mine Cut diamond is the brilliant shine which radiates from it. The stone is cut so that the light passes through it at an angle so as to elicit the most sparkle and shine for this type stone.

The Fascinating History of the Old Mine Diamond

As with any type of diamond, the Old Mine Cut variety has an interesting history surrounding it. This cut of diamond was prevalent in the 1800's up until the time in which the Old European cut diamond took over. Old Mine Cut diamonds were fashioned in a way which was not entirely formula based but usually flattened out on top and curved on the edges.

The name of the Old Mine Cut diamond came into being due to the places where they were discovered, which were old mines throughout India. Since India was the previous home to the majority of diamond mines and most diamonds are South African in origin now, the term Old Mine Cut came into being.

Desirable Traits Which Old Mine Cut Diamonds Possess

As mentioned above, Old Mine Cut diamonds have a brilliance to them unseen in certain other diamond cuts of that period. One of the desirable traits of this cut relates to the way in which it is fashioned. Old Miners are cut to reflect light in a way to produce a good brilliance. The brilliance factor is one desirable trait which attracts diamond shoppers to this particular cut. Although not comparable to today's modern brilliant cut.

The old-fashioned style in which the Old Miner exudes is an additional favorable trait. Since these diamond cuts are rarely attempted these days, having been replaced by newer methods, it is this antique feature which draws consumers to this diamond cut. Those who are shopping at antique jewelry stores to locate their desired engagement ring often come across the Old Mine Cut varieties as they were prevalent throughout the 1800's.

Old mine cut diamonds are also beneficial in that they can be set in a variety of settings. Although the cut itself is something of the past, these diamonds can easily be situated in new settings to make the overall look a mixture of old and new. This cut of diamond is one which can mesh well in a variety of setting materials and styles. Therefore, even if one needs to obtain a new ring setting for their engagement ring or other type of ring with the Old Miner set into it, obtaining a new one which will still look nice is easily achievable.