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There has been a recent resurgence of popularity of cushion (antique) cut diamonds; an ode to past styles reimagined for today’s hottest trends and jewelry market. Antique cushion cuts, often called “old mine cuts,” exude a romantic charm mingled with the long-held history of diamond cutting and setting, bringing their ethereal elegance into a variety of modern settings and current ring styles.
Celebrities with Antique Cushion Cut Diamonds: Taylor Swift’s Engagement Ring
Antique cushion cuts are seeing a surge in popularity due to Taylor’s Swift engagement to Travis Kelce. August 2025, the couple announced the news with an Instagram post featuring a breathtaking custom ring by Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry in New York City.
Taylor’s custom ring showcases an elongated old mine cushion cut diamond, bezel-set in yellow gold atop a tapered, textured band—a design that highlights the stone’s vintage character while feeling distinctly modern.
Modern Cushion Cut vs. Antique Cushion Cut
Modern and antique cushion cuts may share a name, but their appeal couldn’t be more different. Each has distinct traits that influence the look, feel, and personality of a ring.
Modern Cushion Cut
The modern brilliant cushion cut is characterized by a square or rectangular outline with softly rounded corners and a pillow-like appearance. Its crisp facets maximize brilliance, while the balanced distribution of weight across the surface gives the diamond a face-up look that often appears larger than other cuts of the same carat.
In terms of brilliant cushion cuts, we recommend opting for a GIA color grade of I color or above if you want a whiter appearance. Depending on the types of inclusions, SI2 and above can be acceptable in terms of clarity.
Antique Cushion Cut (Old Mine Cut)
Antique cushion cuts, often called Old Mine cuts, trace back to the 18th and 19th centuries and became especially popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Each was cut by hand, originally under candlelight—a fact that earned them the nickname “Candlelight Cut.” That craftsmanship gives them a romance and heirloom quality that modern cuts can’t quite replicate.
These vintage cuts typically feature rounded corners, high crowns, small tables, and a large open culet. With about 58 facets arranged in a “chunky” pattern, they produce a gentle glow rather than sharp brilliance—a look that feels soft, warm, and nostalgic.
Because they were cut by hand and required more of the rough diamond to be removed than other shapes, no two stones are exactly alike. Their irregular outlines and asymmetry only add to their charm, offering a tangible link to history and Old World glamour.
Why You Should Choose an Old Mine Cut
Although the name hints at age, antique cushion cuts have never faded from favor. They’ve been cherished for generations, and Taylor Swift’s choice has simply reignited the spotlight on a style that was never truly out of it.
An Old Mine is perfect if you’re drawn to diamonds with character and history. Unlike modern brilliant cushions, these stones showcase chunky faceting, softer light performance, and a warm, romantic glow. They may not deliver the same fiery brilliance as their modern counterparts, but their hand-cut nature ensures no two are ever alike—each carries a distinct vintage charm.
The defining difference comes down to the faceting. While all cushion cuts feature larger facets than many other shapes, antique cushions are the only ones with truly “chunky” facets. Paired with their high crowns, small tables, and open culets, they create a look that feels less polished and more soulful, offering a tangible link to Old World craftsmanship.
Antique Cushion Cut Rings at Lauren B
At Lauren B, we have a variety of different Old Mine cut rings in our gallery. Check out some of our favorite vintage styles below:
2.82 carat Antique Cushion Lab Diamond Bezel Three-Stone Ring
7 Carat Antique Cushion Cut Diamond Two-Row Ring
4.39 carat Antique Cushion Diamond Engagement Ring
4.51 carat Antique Cushion Lab Diamond Halo Ring
Custom Made to Order
Do you have an idea in mind you wish to turn into reality for your engagement ring? Creating your dream engagement ring is effortless.
Our Custom Ring Design Process page is easy to navigate. Email info@laurenb.com today and get started on designing the Old Mine engagement ring you have always wanted. You can also check out our Instagram and Pinterest for more design inspo!