What is the oldest diamond in the world?

The oldest known diamonds in the world are Diavik and Ekati diamonds. Both come from mines located in Canada. Scientists have determined that these diamonds are between 3.3 and 3.5 billion years old. They actually predate the point in the Earth's history before oxygen levels rose high enough to support life. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of diamond jewelry.

How old is an old European cut diamond?

How old an old European-cut diamond is varies. The old European cut is a precursor to the modern round brilliant cut. The stone appears circular when looked at from the top (because of its low table or largest facet) and has a high crown (the part above the middle of the stone) with larger facets. The tip of the stone, or the culet, is flat instead of pointed. This style was used predominantly in the 19th century, hence the name. It is best to consult a certified appraiser for assistance with dating and identifying antique jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a variety of European-cut diamond jewelry.

What is an old European diamond?

An old European diamond is one that features an Old European gemstone cut. This type of cut became popular during the Art Deco period and has a round shape with 58 central facets. You'll find a variety of European cut diamond gemstone jewelry on 1stDibs.

How old are mine cut diamonds?

Mine cut diamonds are up to 300 years ago. Mine cut diamonds were popular around the 18th century during Victorian times and are still in high demand today. You’ll find a wide selection of mine cut diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.

Are old European cut diamonds valuable?

Although old European cut diamonds are often priced lower than modern cuts, due to scarcity, they can sometimes be more valuable than modern cut diamonds.

When did old European cut diamonds stop?

Jewelry makers stopped using the old European cut for diamond and other gemstone jewelry around 1930. The style was common during the Art Deco period, but the brilliant cut became popular in the years that followed. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Old European cut diamond gemstone jewelry.

Are old mine cut diamonds more valuable?

Because the old mine cut is no longer used on diamonds, diamonds with this cut are rare and so you can often get quite a lot of money for them. Nevertheless, it is still dependent on the quality of the individual diamonds and on the color, clarity, cut and carat number.

Are old European cut diamonds worth more?

Yes, old European cut diamonds can be worth more than many other cut diamonds as they are not produced anymore. This cut was developed and popularized between the years 1890 and 1930 and is likely to be found in an antique ring belonging to this period and featuring a round-cut diamond.

Are old mine cut diamonds worth more?

Old mine cut diamonds are usually worth less than old european cut diamonds. Because they are generally 10-15% less expensive, they are often larger than other cut diamonds for engagement rings.

How much is an old mine cut diamond worth?

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Old World Diamonds

Italian 18k Gold Cross

One Of A Kind Jewellery

Pendant With Bail

Italian Crown Crown

Stefano Vitolo

Italian Etruscan Gold Pendant

Crown Pendant

Renaissance Style Ring

Moi Indra Vintage Gold and Diamond Ruby Earrings

$3,046 / item

Moi Indra Vintage Gold and Diamond Ruby Earrings

Located in Lawrenceville, GA

Gold(14K): 3.05g Rose-cut Diamonds: 4.00ct Gemstones : Ruby, Chinese Cultured Pearls 925 Silver Bringing back the old world charm of rose-cut diamonds that were first found in India...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Ruby, 14k Gold, Silver

Italian Designer 18 Karat Gold Heart Motif Diamond Pendant

$7,160

Italian Designer 18 Karat Gold Heart Motif Diamond Pendant

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. This diamond pendant has 0.94 total carat weight of F/G col...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan More Jewelry

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

$2,970

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstones: Diamonds 0.15 ctw Total Length: 30 mm *Chain n...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Italian Designer 18 Karat Gold Flower Motif Diamond Pendant

$10,160

Italian Designer 18 Karat Gold Flower Motif Diamond Pendant

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. This diamond pendant has 1.44 total carat weight of F/G col...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan More Jewelry

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

GIA Certified 0.80 Carat Fancy Light Green VVS2 Clarity Diamond

$6,720

GIA Certified 0.80 Carat Fancy Light Green VVS2 Clarity Diamond

Located in บางรัก, TH

Cushion cuts are especially popular for engagement rings, offering a romantic, elegant appearance with a touch of old world charm. Our 0.80 carat diamond is a beautiful, versatile c...

Category

2010s Asian Loose Gemstones

Materials

Diamond

Vintage 10k Yellow Gold Tigers Eye Cameo and Diamond Ring

$958

Vintage 10k Yellow Gold Tigers Eye Cameo and Diamond Ring

Located in New York, NY

The carved portrait stands out with impressive detail, giving the piece an elegant old-world character. A small diamond accent adds a touch of sparkle, complementing the warm glow of...

Category

20th Century Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Tiger's Eye, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Diamond Sapphire Emerald 18K White Gold Grain Cocktail Snake Ring

$9,322

Vintage Diamond Sapphire Emerald 18K White Gold Grain Cocktail Snake Ring

By SCALA GIOIELLI

Located in Marcianise, IT

Preserved in excellent vintage condition, this ring is an exceptional collector's item, ideal for anyone looking to wear a magnetic, highly sophisticated piece steeped in old-world c...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Artisan Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vitolo 18 Karat Fancy Yellow & Princess Cut Diamond Eternity Ring

$10,140

Vitolo 18 Karat Fancy Yellow & Princess Cut Diamond Eternity Ring

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstones: Yellow Diamonds 0.41 ctw ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Art Nouveau Brooch with diamonds in rose cut 14K Yellow Gold

$3,868

Art Nouveau Brooch with diamonds in rose cut 14K Yellow Gold

Located in Berlin, BE

The rose-cut diamonds add an enchanting touch of old-world glamour to this already stunning brooch.

Category

Early 20th Century German Art Nouveau Brooches

Materials

White Diamond, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

$2,970

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstones: Diamonds 0.16 ctw Cross: 18 x 18 mm Total Lengt...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

$3,250

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one-of-a-kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstone: Diamonds 0.21 ctw Initial Rope Coin: 20 x 20 mm ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

$2,970

Vitolo 18K Gold Diamond Set Initial Pendant with Crown Bail

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstone: Diamonds 0.16 ctw Initial Rope Coin: 18 x 18 mm ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18 Karat Gold Necklace with Diamond Heart and Bezels

$6,980

Vitolo 18 Karat Gold Necklace with Diamond Heart and Bezels

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Gemstones: White Diamonds 0.49 ctw, Fancy Yellow Diamonds ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Diamond Naturalistic Leaf Berries Brooch White Gold Portuguese 1950s 1960s

$7,511

Diamond Naturalistic Leaf Berries Brooch White Gold Portuguese 1950s 1960s

Located in Lisbon, PT

The curving stems and leaves—subtly ridged and gracefully contoured—add both volume and movement, while additional diamonds twinkle along their sinuous lines. Whether pinned to a la...

Category

Vintage 1950s Portuguese Modern Brooches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Vintage Diamond and Lemon Citrine Dangle Earrings in 14 Karat White Gold

$3,650 / set

Vintage Diamond and Lemon Citrine Dangle Earrings in 14 Karat White Gold

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

Above each drop, an ornate cluster of old mine and round cut diamonds forms a lush, intricate crown that frames the citrine with sparkling, old-world charm.

Category

20th Century Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

Citrine, Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold

4.26 Carat Oval Aquamarine Three Stone Diamond Ring 18K White Gold Merkaba

$5,890

4.26 Carat Oval Aquamarine Three Stone Diamond Ring 18K White Gold Merkaba

By Merkaba

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Flanking the center stone are rose cut pear shaped diamonds totaling 0.30 carats. Their soft, antique inspired shimmer gives the ring texture, romance, and old world charm.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, White Diamond, Multi-gemstone, Gold, 18k Gold, Whit...

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

$12,400

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Double Sided Diamond Set Circle: 1.12 total carat weight.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

$22,000

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Double Sided Diamond Set Circle 1.12 total carat weight of ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

$14,800

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Double Sided Diamond Set Circle: 1.12 total carat weight of...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

$15,940

Vitolo 18 Karat Handmade Link Necklace with Double Sided Diamond Set Circle

By Stefano Vitolo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stefano creates custom artisanal one of a kind jewelry with excellent gemstones in a truly old world Italian craftmanship. Double Sided Diamond Set Circle: 1.12 total carat weight of...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Dangling Chandelier Earrings in 18 Karat Gold 11.59 Carats Total Round Diamonds

$17,600Sale Price / set|20% Off

Dangling Chandelier Earrings in 18 Karat Gold 11.59 Carats Total Round Diamonds

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

Luxurious, Old World style diamond chandelier earrings are bursting with undeniable sparkle.

Category

20th Century Unknown Chandelier Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

IGI Certified 1.70tcw Baguette & Round-Cut Diamond Dangle Earrings in 18K Gold

$5,800 / set

IGI Certified 1.70tcw Baguette & Round-Cut Diamond Dangle Earrings in 18K Gold

By VimleshBadaya

Located in Jaipur, RJ

The interplay of baguette and round diamonds evokes old-world glamour while maintaining a contemporary, timeless aesthetic

Category

2010s Indian Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

4.58tcw 18K Rich Green Asscher Emerald & OEC Diamond 3 Stone Vintage Gold Ring

$38,400

4.58tcw 18K Rich Green Asscher Emerald & OEC Diamond 3 Stone Vintage Gold Ring

Located in Jupiter, FL

The diamonds showcase old-world glamour and really add to the overall allure of the design.

Category

2010s Colombian Victorian Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

18 Karat Gold Hammered Link Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamond Charm 0.72 Carat

$24,562

18 Karat Gold Hammered Link Bracelet with Brilliant Cut Diamond Charm 0.72 Carat

By Malcolm Betts

Located in London, GB

Step off the unassuming Notting Hill backstreet and into the world that is Malcolm Betts. A world where centuries-old diamonds, rare rubies and sapphires are reborn, and where the mo...

Category

2010s British Contemporary Chain Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Bespoke Rubellite Organic Silk Diamond Gemstone Bas-Relief Floor Art Textile

$22,800 / item

Bespoke Rubellite Organic Silk Diamond Gemstone Bas-Relief Floor Art Textile

By Alexander's Collection, Alexander Anisimov

Located in Hong Kong, HK

Visually dynamic yet grounded in classic old-world grandeur, "Rubellite Imperial Diamonds" represents a secure, institutional-quality heritage asset that beautifully bridges contempo...

Category

2010s Chinese Art Deco Western European Rugs

Materials

Silk

Antique Georgian Silver-Topped Gold Rose Cut and Sapphire Butterfly Brooch

$4,190

Antique Georgian Silver-Topped Gold Rose Cut and Sapphire Butterfly Brooch

Located in New York, NY

The wings and body are set with glittering rose-cut diamonds, their old-world sparkle beautifully complemented by richly hued blue sapphires.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Georgian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, Silver

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Old World Diamonds For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a broad range of old world diamonds for sale on 1stDibs. These distinct designs — crafted with great care and often made from gold, 18k gold and white gold — can elevate any look. Our collection of these items for sale includes 585 vintage editions and 1075 modern creations to choose from as well. Our inventory is broad and distinctive, with accessories on offer that were made as long ago as the 18th Century to those produced as recently as the 21st Century. contemporary and artisan are consistently popular styles when it comes to old world diamonds. Many examples in our inventory of these items are appealing no matter their origins, but Althoff Jewelry, Victor Mayer and JeweLyrie produced popular versions that are worth a look. Lovers of these pieces agree that it’s a versatile accessory, but a selection from our variety of 1313 diamond versions can add an especially stylish touch. There are many round cut, old european cut and brilliant cut old world diamonds for sale. When shopping our range of old world diamonds, you’ll find that there are less available pieces for men today than there are for women.

How Much are Old World Diamonds?

On average, old world diamonds at 1stDibs sell for $5,925, while they’re typically $163 on the low end and $1,200,000 for the highest priced versions of this item.

The Legacy of Diamond in Jewelry Design

Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.

From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!

There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.

Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.

In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).

When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.

Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.

Questions About Old World Diamonds

What is the oldest diamond in the world?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The oldest known diamonds in the world are Diavik and Ekati diamonds. Both come from mines located in Canada. Scientists have determined that these diamonds are between 3.3 and 3.5 billion years old. They actually predate the point in the Earth's history before oxygen levels rose high enough to support life. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of diamond jewelry.
How old is an old European cut diamond?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
How old an old European-cut diamond is varies. The old European cut is a precursor to the modern round brilliant cut. The stone appears circular when looked at from the top (because of its low table or largest facet) and has a high crown (the part above the middle of the stone) with larger facets. The tip of the stone, or the culet, is flat instead of pointed. This style was used predominantly in the 19th century, hence the name. It is best to consult a certified appraiser for assistance with dating and identifying antique jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a variety of European-cut diamond jewelry.
What is an old European diamond?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
An old European diamond is one that features an Old European gemstone cut. This type of cut became popular during the Art Deco period and has a round shape with 58 central facets. You'll find a variety of European cut diamond gemstone jewelry on 1stDibs.
How old are mine cut diamonds?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Mine cut diamonds are up to 300 years ago. Mine cut diamonds were popular around the 18th century during Victorian times and are still in high demand today. You’ll find a wide selection of mine cut diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Are old European cut diamonds valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Although old European cut diamonds are often priced lower than modern cuts, due to scarcity, they can sometimes be more valuable than modern cut diamonds.
When did old European cut diamonds stop?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Jewelry makers stopped using the old European cut for diamond and other gemstone jewelry around 1930. The style was common during the Art Deco period, but the brilliant cut became popular in the years that followed. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Old European cut diamond gemstone jewelry.
Are old mine cut diamonds more valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Because the old mine cut is no longer used on diamonds, diamonds with this cut are rare and so you can often get quite a lot of money for them. Nevertheless, it is still dependent on the quality of the individual diamonds and on the color, clarity, cut and carat number.
Are old European cut diamonds worth more?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
Yes, old European cut diamonds can be worth more than many other cut diamonds as they are not produced anymore. This cut was developed and popularized between the years 1890 and 1930 and is likely to be found in an antique ring belonging to this period and featuring a round-cut diamond.
Are old mine cut diamonds worth more?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Old mine cut diamonds are usually worth less than old european cut diamonds. Because they are generally 10-15% less expensive, they are often larger than other cut diamonds for engagement rings.
How much is an old mine cut diamond worth?
1 Answer
Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 22, 2021
Like any other diamond, an old mine cut diamond's worth depends on a variety of factors. These factors include the 4C's (color, clarity, cut, carat), the overall beauty and "make" of the stone, the demand, supply, etc. On average however, old mine cuts are typically priced slightly lower (around 5-10%) than modern cut diamonds.