As the 2024 wedding season unfolds, a notable trend is emerging in the realm of engagement rings: an increased interest in antique diamond cuts. This growing preference for vintage aesthetics is being keenly observed by Carl Blackburn of C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla, San Diego. According to Blackburn, couples are increasingly drawn to antique diamond cuts like the Old European Cut and French Cut.
While antique design elements such as hand-milgraining and hand-engraving have maintained steady popularity, the heightened demand for antique diamond cuts has been somewhat unexpected. Blackburn, a seasoned jewelry designer and second-generation California estate jeweler, welcomes this renewed interest. His boutique is one of the few in San Diego specializing in antique cut diamonds, positioning C. Blackburn Jewelers uniquely as both a custom jeweler and a diamond estate jewelry buyer.
Blackburn's expertise with antique cut diamonds spans decades, involving both the setting of these diamonds into custom-designed engagement rings and purchasing them from customers. He points out several specific types of antique diamond cuts that modern couples might consider for their custom engagement rings.
The Old European Cut stands out for its round shape and high crown, featuring a small table and large facets that produce a romantic sparkle reminiscent of early 20th-century jewelry. Another popular choice is the Old Mine Cut, characterized by its cushion or slightly rounded square shape, high crown, small table, and large open culet, evoking a warm, vintage charm.
The Old French Cut, with its square or rectangular shape and unique step-cut faceting, enhances the diamond's brilliance and depth, making it a favored style in early 1900s jewelry. The Rose Cut, featuring a flat base and a domed top covered in triangular facets, offers a soft, subtle sparkle and was popular during the Georgian, Victorian, and Art Deco eras.
The Jubilee Cut, created to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, combines elements of the Old European and modern brilliant cuts, showcasing exceptional fire and brilliance. Lastly, the Antique Single Cut, with its 16-18 facets and star-like appearance, is known for its understated elegance and was commonly used in early 20th-century jewelry for accent stones and smaller diamonds.
Among these, the Old European Cut is particularly favored for its romantic, vintage aesthetic and distinctive sparkle, making it a beautiful choice for the center diamond of an engagement ring.
This trend towards antique diamond cuts highlights a broader movement within the jewelry industry, where couples are increasingly seeking unique, personalized, and historically rich options for their engagement rings. For custom jewelers like Carl Blackburn, this presents an opportunity to cater to a niche market that values the craftsmanship and timeless beauty of antique diamonds.
