Old European Cut

Old European Cut is an antique style of diamond cutting that became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly from around the 1890s through the 1930s. It developed from earlier hand-cut styles and was an important step towards the modern round brilliant cut.

Old European cut diamonds are generally round in outline, with a high crown, small table, deep pavilion and large, broad facets. The culet is typically large and visible when viewed through the centre of the stone. As with other antique cuts, individual stones can vary considerably because they were cut by hand.

The proportions and facet arrangement give old European cut diamonds a distinctive soft, romantic sparkle. Rather than producing the sharp, highly uniform flashes associated with many modern brilliant cuts, they tend to display larger flashes of light and a warmer, more subtle appearance.

Old European cuts are particularly associated with late Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco jewellery. They are frequently found in antique and vintage rings, earrings, bracelets and other pieces dating from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

The cutting style reflects the craftsmanship of its time. Slight variations in symmetry and facet arrangement are often part of the character of an antique diamond and should be considered alongside the stone’s overall beauty, condition and provenance.

At Weldons, old European cut diamonds are valued for their individuality, historical character and distinctive antique appearance.

Period: Primarily late 19th to early 20th century
Typical features: Round outline, high crown, small table, deep pavilion, large facets and prominent culet
Characteristic appearance: Broad, soft flashes of light with a romantic antique sparkle