What is an OEC diamond?What does OEC stand for in diamonds?
by
lujiaxiang
28 Jun 2024
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for vintage style jewelry and a renewed interest in Old World diamonds, with old European cut diamonds gaining renewed attention.
Hopefully, this article will help you gain a better understanding of old European cut (OEC) diamonds and provide some insights to selecting them.
1.What is an Old European-Cut Diamond?
Old European Cut Diamond vs. Brilliant Cut Diamond
How to Identify an Old Euro Diamond
Old European Cut Lab Grown Diamonds
Should I Buy an Old European Cut Lab Grown Diamond?
How to Buy an Old European Cut Lab Grown Diamond
Where to Buy an Old European-Cut Diamond
1.What is an Old European-Cut Diamond?
An Old European cut diamond (also called an Old Euro cut diamond) is a round-cut diamond that was cut between 1890 and 1930. Most Old European cut diamonds at that time were hand cut and polished because there were none of the modern machines and technology we have today. Old European cut diamonds mainly rely on candlelight as a light source, through the diamond table and pavilion to maximize the light of the candle to make the diamond more shining.
2.Old European Cut Diamond vs. Brilliant Cut Diamond
The old European cut is earlier than the bright cut, and the biggest similarity between the two cuts is the same number of facets; Each Old European cut and bright cut diamond has 58 facets, and the different places have the following aspects:
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Fire vs Sparkle
Because the section of the old European cut diamond is much larger than the bright cut, the old European cut diamond can emit colorful light from the inside, forming a "flame" Angle of view, and the bright cut diamond section is small, the reflected light will be brighter, forming a "spark" Angle of view.
- Hand-Crafted vs Machine-Cut
Old European cut diamonds were made by hand, while modern bright cut diamonds are machine cut. Some of the old European cuts are irregularly shaped, have strange bumps or have asymmetrical faces. In modern cuts, the cuts are more uniform, although their angles are different, and not all are perfectly round, but there are no obvious raised or asymmetrical faces.
Although the old European cut does not have the symmetry of the bright cut diamond, the old European cut diamond is valued for its uniqueness.
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Rare vs Readily Available
There are not many old European cut diamonds on the market at present, and because of the older age, the quality of these diamonds can vary greatly. In contrast, modern cut diamonds are easy to buy and easy to find of good quality.
3.How to Identify an Old Euro Diamond
The first place you will look to identify an Old European cut will be the visible culet. After that, there are a few more direct ways to identify it. Here’s our list, in descending order, of the easiest ways to pick out an old Euro.
One of the hallmarks of the old European cut diamonds is their visible culet. To view the culet, you can peer through the top of the diamond. You can find the culet on a diamond larger than 1 carat without even using a loupe.
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Large culet. The culet is the facet at the bottom of the diamond.
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Small table.The table is the facet at the top of the diamond.
Frosted girdle. The girdle is the facet that encircles the diamond between the crown and pavilion. If it’s frosted and opaque, it’s likely old.
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Bumpy girdle.If the girdle shows tiny side cracks, it’s a good sign that the diamond is old.
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Larger Facets.The old European cut diamond will show facets from the top that are “larger” and “less splintered” than a modern diamond.
4.Old European Cut Lab Grown Diamonds
Despite the modern cut diamonds, OEC diamonds are once again popular among collectors and those looking for unique engagement rings or heirloom quality jewelry. Their rarity and historical value make them even more attractive in today's market. To meet the growing demand, lab-made OEC diamonds are becoming increasingly available. These diamonds have the same aesthetic appeal as natural OEC diamonds, which are characterized by vintage cuts that exude charm and personality, with the added advantage of ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability.
However, it is important to carefully assess the price, quality and authenticity of the diamond as well as your personal preferences before making a decision.
5.How to Buy an Old European Cut Lab Grown Diamond
To buy an Old European Cut lab grown diamond, start by researching reputable jewelry stores or online retailers.Verify the authenticity and quality of the diamond by examining certificates, such as those from gemological laboratories, and consider factors like carat weight, color, clarity, and cut to match your preferences and budget. Additionally, consult with experts or gemologists if needed to ensure you make an informed and satisfying purchase.
FAQs
- Is European cut diamond good?
Old European Cut diamonds are great choices if you are going for a vintage-inspired look and want an antique diamond. Because they are no longer being cut, it can be challenging to find Old European cut diamonds that are up to par with modern standards, as many have chips or scratches from time. Even so, there are many excellent quality Old European cut diamonds to choose from, and any small imperfections can just add to its history and character.
- Are old cut diamonds more valuable?
Most Old European cut diamonds are valued less than round brilliant cut diamonds of similar carat weight. Although they are rare, there is less demand for old cut diamonds than round brilliant cuts. Their cut also makes them less brilliant than modern diamonds, reducing the overall value of the gems.
- Do old European cut diamonds sparkle less?
Old European cut diamonds sparkle less than round brilliant cut diamonds, which are cut with more modern technology to maximize a diamond's brilliance. Although they sparkle less, an Old European Cut diamond will have a greater fire, which refers to the multi-colored flashes of color that come from within the diamond.
- Are old European cut diamonds rare?
Old European cut diamonds are becoming increasingly rare, especially as they become more popular. These gems were only cut in the late 19th and early 20th century, so there are a limited amount of vintage European cut diamonds available. Finding an old European cut diamond without any scratches or weathering is even more difficult, making a high-quality old European cut diamond exceptionally rare and worth treasuring.
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