HISTORIAL INSIGHTS

Antique Cushion Cut Diamonds: That Irresistible Old-World Spark

If diamonds could whisper stories, the antique cushion cut would tell the longest, richest one. This gem shape has made its way from history books straight into everyone's heart—and it’s no wonder why.

What Is an Antique Cushion Cut Diamond?

The antique cushion cut diamond, sometimes called the Pillow Cut or Candlelight Cut, is known for its elegance and character. Imagine soft, rounded corners and a shape that blends a square, rectangle, and oval. With large facets, high crowns, and an open culet—the small flat facet at the bottom—this diamond cut sparkles with a fire and character that is truly magic.

A Brief History of the Antique Cushion Cut

The cushion cut’s story begins in the 18th century, when diamond cutting was still done entirely by hand. Its earliest form, known as the Old Mine Cut, was the dominant diamond shape from the 1700s through the late 1800s. Why “mine cut”? Because many of these diamonds came from Brazil’s early mines and, later, the rich mines of South Africa.

  • 1760s–1830s: The Old Mine cut emerges, designed to sparkle under candlelight and oil lamps. Large facets and deeper proportions maximized fire in low-light settings.
  • Victorian Era (1837–1901): Cushion cuts were the darlings of engagement rings and heirloom jewels—romantic, pillowy, and just perfect for those intricate, ornate settings we all swoon over.
  • Edwardian & Art Deco Eras: Cushion cuts continued to reign, but slowly gave way to newer cutting styles (like the Old European Cut, which paved the way for the modern Round Brilliant).
  • Today: Antique cushion cuts are celebrated for their charm, individuality, and history—bridging centuries of craftsmanship and individuality.

In short: when you wear an antique cushion cut, you’re wearing a piece of history, cut and polished by hands that valued artistry over perfection.

Why the Antique Cushion Cut Is Making a Comeback

  • Vintage charm meets modern taste. There’s been a resurgence because people want jewelry that tells a story. Antique cushion cuts offer exactly that.
  • Fire & brilliance: Those large open facets mean light dances in them in a mesmerizing way - much like a kaleidescope.
  • Soft yet structured silhouette: Rounded corners soften the edge, while depth and crown give sophistication.
  • Uniqueness: No two antique cushion cuts are exactly alike. Variations in color, cut style, and proportions mean when you choose one, you’re choosing something personal.
If you’re considering antique cushion cut diamonds (or an antique cushion cut engagement ring), here’s what I always check:

Key Features & What to Look For

  • Cut style & facets Deep crown, open culet → big flashes of color and sparkle. Squarish or elongated shapes add elegance.
  • Color & clarity Antique cuts tend to show colorless (meaning, they face up whiter than their modern counter parts of the same color grade).  More and more women are gravitating towards the "warmer" hued stones due to their character and charm.
  • Proportions Balanced depth and table size help with brilliance. Too shallow →flat sparkle too deep → lost light.
  • Certification GIA reports help confirm authenticity and quality.

Final Thoughts
Antique cushion cut diamonds aren’t just beautiful—they’re living history. They connect us to centuries of romance, craftsmanship, and artistry. At Jewels by Grace, we love curating these treasures so you can carry their story forward.

Favorite Cushion Cuts in Our Collection