Why Old Mine Cut Diamonds Are the Antidote to Lab-Grown

Old Mine Cut Diamonds vs Lab Grown: Why the Past is the True Luxury

In a world flooded with lab-grown diamonds, it’s easy to forget the romance and rarity of true antique treasures. At Fogal & Barnes Fine Jewellers of Harrogate, we don’t sell lab-grown diamonds — and with good reason. We believe in the enduring beauty, character, and ethical story behind natural, Old Mine Cut diamonds.

These charming, hand-cut gems are becoming the must-have choice for those seeking something truly unique — including a wave of modern celebrities choosing them over generic, lab-created stones.

So, what makes an Old Mine Cut diamond so special? Let’s take a closer look...

What is an Old Mine Cut Diamond?

Old Mine Cut diamonds date back to the Georgian and Victorian eras (roughly 1700s–1800s). They were hand-cut by candlelight, designed to sparkle in warm, ambient light — giving them a soft, romantic glow that modern cuts simply can't replicate.

They feature:

• A high crown and small table

• Chunky facets with a slightly squarish shape

• A charming, imperfect sparkle full of character

• Visible culet (the tiny point at the bottom)

Each one is completely one-of-a-kind, carrying centuries of history within its facets. No two are ever alike.

How Lab Grown Diamonds Compare

Lab-grown diamonds are man-made in a factory, often marketed as “eco-friendly” or “budget-friendly.” But here’s the truth:

• Lab diamonds have no rarity or heirloom value

• They can lose resale value drastically over time

• Visually, they can look cold or “too perfect”

• They're becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from mass-produced costume jewellery

In fact, many shoppers today are specifically looking for Old Mine Cuts to avoid the artificial look of lab-grown stones. You may have seen celebrities like Zendaya, Lily James, and Mary-Kate Olsen wearing antique diamond rings — not just for the aesthetics, but for the history and sentiment they hold.

Why Old Mine Cuts Are In Demand – Especially Now

The surge in interest around Old Mine Cut diamonds isn't just about vintage appeal. It's about choosing:

• Sustainably sourced natural diamonds

• True craftsmanship and history

• A forever piece that isn’t made by a machine

• A romantic aesthetic that lab stones just can’t match

At Fogal & Barnes, we source our antique and Old Mine Cut diamonds with the utmost care — many of our customers even remount heirloom stones into bespoke engagement rings or eternity bands, giving them a modern twist with timeless soul.

“I always tell our customers — an Old Mine Cut diamond has lived a life before you. It’s survived centuries of love stories, and now it’s part of yours. That’s not something you can manufacture.” - Mona

Your Dream Ring Deserves a Story

If you're looking for an engagement ring, anniversary piece, or meaningful gift that stands the test of time, we invite you to fall in love with the Old Mine Cut revival.

Whether you’re after a ready-to-wear piece or want to create something bespoke around a vintage stone, we’re here to help.

📍 Visit us at Fogal & Barnes in Harrogate
💌 Or book a private appointment through our website