Diamond knowledge
Choose a practical antique diamond guide for cuts, comparisons, reports, condition, settings and purchasing.
Start with the question closest to yours. These guides explain the cut, compare real stones and show what to check before buying.
For clarity inspection, read Clarity in Old Mine Cut Diamonds: What to Check Face-Up, with a real SI1 report and viewing checklist.
For finish grades, read Fair Symmetry in an Old Mine Cut: What to Inspect, with real report entries and a focused inspection checklist.
Guide section
Learn the main shapes, facet patterns and visual differences before comparing individual stones.
Back to guide routesA practical introduction to antique cushion outlines, facet patterns, spread and movement.
Read the guideHow old mine cushion diamonds are cut, viewed and compared for individual character.
Read the guideA live visual index for comparing antique cushion outlines, elongation, facet patterns and individual character.
Read the guideHow ratio, outline, central pattern and setting design shape an elongated old mine cushion.
Read the guideGuide section
Use these guides to compare proportions, light behaviour and the differences between historic cutting families.
Back to guide routesA practical three-pass evaluation, with real cushion examples, report checks and condition review.
Read the guideHow table, depth, crown, pavilion, culet and outline work together in an old mine cushion.
Read the guideWhat experienced dealers look for after they have read the grading report.
Read the guideThe useful visual differences between old mine cuts and modern cushion brilliants.
Read the guideHow old mine and old European diamonds differ in outline, facet organisation and face-up character.
Read the guideGuide section
Read the grading report beside photographs, movement videos and a detailed condition examination.
Back to guide routesHow to read an antique diamond report and connect its measurements, grades and comments to the stone.
Read the guideHow specialists inspect an antique diamond for girdle wear, chips, abrasion, naturals, cavities and earlier repolishing.
Read the guideHow to compare fluorescence, transparency and face-up colour under matched lighting.
Read the guideType IIa crystal classification, laboratory documentation and a documented antique-diamond example.
Read the guideGuide section
Work through the decisions that matter when buying a large stone, choosing a setting, matching a pair or considering natural colour.
Back to guide routesA specialist buying framework for antique diamonds above five carats, covering identity, spread, condition, provenance, viewing and setting risk.
Read the guideHow to protect an antique diamond while designing a clean contemporary setting.
Read the guideHow antique diamonds are paired for scale, outline, colour and movement.
Read the guideA clear approach to hue, tone, saturation, colour distribution and documentation.
Read the guideConfidential enquiry
Tell us what you are comparing or collecting. We will answer in the context of real available material.
New diamonds, recent creations and invitations to view them.
