What are Old European Cut Diamonds?

Old European cut diamonds are round diamonds cut primarily between 1890 and 1930, especially during the Art Deco period. These ancient cut diamonds were one of the precursors to the modern round brilliant cut diamond, the most popular diamond shape today.

Old European Cut Diamonds Compared to Modern Standard Round Cut Diamonds

Old European cut diamonds are cut in such a way as to retain more weight, but they do not have as much brilliance as modern brilliant cut diamonds.

Old European cut diamonds have 58 facets; modern round cut diamonds have 57-58 facets, depending on whether they have a culet.

These ancient cut diamonds have a special charm, because in that era, diamond cutters could only observe and cut with the naked eye, and each polished loose diamond was not exactly the same. Compared with modern technology, Hand cutting makes each diamond unique.

How to Identify Old European Cut Diamonds

Old Mine vs Old European vs Modern Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds

Old European cut diamonds are known for their large facets, which are larger than those of the round brilliant cut. They are easily identifiable by the small circle in the center of the diamond table. The circle comes from the grand culet of an old European cut. The culet is the facet on the bottom of the diamond. A large culet allows more light to escape from the bottom of the diamond, which can cause dark circles to appear. Not every diamond has a culet - many modern diamonds do not. Instead, they have a sharp point at the bottom of the diamond that reflects light and prevents circles from forming on the diamond table.

Older European cut diamonds have smaller tables and higher crowns than modern round brilliant cuts. Due to the ancient cutting technique, they tend to have less symmetry than round brilliants.

Old European Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

Sometimes they were even an imperfect circle, as shown in the picture above, because diamond cutters at the time were not as skilled as the angels.

Are Old European Cut Diamonds Worth It?

Since modern diamonds are rarely cut this way, older European cut diamonds may be more valuable. However, the value of each diamond is determined by its 4 C's. Older European cut diamonds often have poorer cut grades, which can reduce their value. If you have an old European cut diamond, it is a good idea to have it authenticated to understand its value.

Do you want to own a diamond too? I can find suitable and certified diamonds for you through formal channels. Buy a loose diamond to make a ring, pendant or a pair of earrings.