Long ago, in the late 1800′s, the most popular type of diamonds available were cushion cut diamonds.  They were worn by the most fashionable women into the early 1900′s, also.  Then, new cuts were developed by jewelers for diamonds, and interest in cushion cuts fell drastically through the last half of the 20th century.  The 21st century has brought renewed interest in vintage jewelry, and so antique cushion cut diamond engagement rings have once again become very popular.

There are a number of unique characteristics of a cushion cut diamond, not the least of which is its puffy, rounded shape.  Because they resemble a plump pillow, they were given the name “cushion cut”.  They are square to slightly rectangular in shape, and have nicely rounded corners, also.  Antique cushion cut diamond engagement rings are often set in rose gold, and paired with rose colored wedding rings.  Antique cushion cut diamonds are very brilliant, meaning they seem to glow from within, but they do not possess the same amount of sparkle and fire of the brilliant cut diamonds of today.

Cushion cut diamond engagement rings generally cost much more than rings with other diamond cuts.  This is because a very high quality diamond is required for this cut.  Cushion cuts have larger facets than most other diamonds, and these very large facets act like windows into the interior of the diamond.  Any off color or flaw in the diamond will be much more easily seen, and so the diamond must be “clean” for use in a cushion cut.  High quality diamonds always command a higher price than lower quality ones, of course.

Most vintage cushion cut diamond engagement rings are set with six prongs.  This is because jewelers of long ago wanted to make sure the diamond was safe and secure.  Today, new cushion cut diamonds are set with 4 prongs, due to better and more precise tools and techniques.  One way to assess the age of a cushion cut ring is to look at how many prongs it has, but be aware of the fact that a new ring can have more prongs, in order to make it appear to be vintage.

Always do some research on any expensive jewelry you buy, and keep in mind what you have learned here about antique cushion cut diamond engagement rings.  That way, you will be sure to find the ring you have dreamed about and will cherish for the rest of your life.