Old Mine Cuts & Modern Brilliant Cuts by JONATHAN.
When creating a bespoke Cousins piece, we often select the classic Modern Brilliant Cut diamonds of the finest quality and proportion. These stones are chosen for their exceptional ability to capture and return light, producing a refined, natural brilliance that has long been admired in fine jewellery.
However, this level of optical perfection has not come about quickly. It is the result of centuries of careful refinement, gradually developing into the cut we know today—valued for its balance, precision and enduring beauty.
With our preference for antiquity and tradition we lean towards historical diamond cuts, such as Old Mine Cuts, which often reflect the natural octahedral form of the rough diamond - a result of cutters seeking to preserve as much of the original stone as possible.
While they do not display the same intensity of sparkle as Modern Brilliant Cuts, they possess a distinct and gentle character. Their softer, more subtle light return gives them a quiet charm that many find deeply captivating.
There are also Old Style Brilliant cut diamonds—an elegant transition between the Old Mine Cut and the Modern Brilliant. Typically near round in outline, they are distinguished by a smaller table and correspondingly steeper crown facets. These are a particular favourite, and on occasion I will specifically request this style of proportion. They carry a distinctive individuality, with a charm and character that feels both refined and quietly expressive.
Do come and see some of the special diamonds we hold in stock, each one illustrating the evolution of hand cutting styles and the quiet progress of expert craftsmanship through the generations. They offer a tangible link between past and present, and a reminder of the remarkable skill and care of diamond cutters—from historical traditions through to the precision of the modern day.
