Old European cut diamonds are a traditional diamond cutting method that first appeared in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Old European cut diamonds typically have fewer facets, deeper pavilions, and larger tables than modern brilliant cut diamonds. These characteristics make old European cut diamonds have a different luster and sparkle than modern brilliant cut diamonds. We’ll explore the luster and brilliance of Old European cut diamonds and how they affect a diamond’s appearance and value.

1. The luster of old European cut diamonds

The luster of old European cut diamonds is often described as "waxy". This luster is soft and warm, contrasting with the brilliance and sparkle of modern brilliant-cut diamonds. This is because the facet shapes and proportions of old European cut diamonds are different from modern brilliant cut diamonds. Old European cut diamonds typically have fewer facets, most of which are located at the base of the diamond. This means that light cannot reflect from multiple facets, creating an intense sparkle effect, as it does in modern brilliant-cut diamonds. Instead, light only reflects from a few facets, giving the diamond a softer luster.

In addition, the cutting proportions of old European cut diamonds are also different from modern brilliant cut diamonds. Old European cut diamonds typically have a smaller diameter to depth ratio, meaning they have a deeper pavilion and a larger table. This cut makes the diamond look thicker from the side, but it also affects the diamond's optical properties. Smaller cut proportions prevent light from reflecting inside the diamond, reducing the diamond's sparkle and luster.

2. The brilliance of old European cut diamonds

Old European cut diamonds usually have lower brilliance due to the limitations of the cutting method and cut proportions. However, the brilliance of Old European cut diamonds is not entirely lacking. On the contrary, they usually display a unique charm. The sparkle of Old European cut diamonds is softer and warmer, rather than the intensity and brilliance of modern brilliant cut diamonds. This soft sparkle gives Old European cut diamonds a classic and romantic feel, making them more attractive in the eyes of many.

3. The appearance and value of old European cut diamonds

The appearance and value of an Old European cut diamond is affected by luster and brilliance. Because old European cut diamonds have different luster and brilliance than modern brilliant cut diamonds, their appearance is also different. Old European cut diamonds usually have a soft, warm luster rather than the brightness and sparkle of modern brilliant cut diamonds. This classic look makes Old European cut diamonds more valuable in the eyes of some.

In addition, old European cut diamonds also have historical and cultural value. They are products from the late 19th century to the early 20th century and represent the aesthetic and technical level of an era. Therefore, Old European cut diamonds are usually regarded as a cultural and historical heritage with collection and investment value.

Old European cut diamonds have different luster and sparkle than modern brilliant cut diamonds due to the way they are cut and the limitations of their cut proportions. Old European cut diamonds typically have a soft, warm waxy luster and unique charm. Although Old European cut diamonds have less sparkle, they still have collectible and investment value because they represent the cultural and historical heritage of an era.