Vintage diamond jewelry

What defines it

Antique diamonds were cut by hand for candlelight, not for a spotlight. Old mine and old European cuts show a small table, a high crown and often an open culet, which gives broad, watery flashes instead of tight modern sparkle.

What to look for

Check the hallmark and the wear together: an honest antique ring shows soft, even wear on the high points, original solder lines and a shank that has not been thinned. Ask to see the culet of any old-cut stone, the back of the setting and the gallery, all of which we will show you live on video before you buy.

What it costs

Expect roughly $800 to $9,000 for pieces set with this stone, with size, origin and the absence of treatment doing most of the work on price.

Indicative only. Every curated vintage, antique and estate piece is one of a kind and priced on its own merits, with free insured US shipping.