Period cut diamonds are trending …
“Taylor Swift’s engagement ring is so exciting! The size, the shape, the quality and the history are in a class of its own”, says Irish fine jeweller Sam Lafford, founder of Studio Lafford.
He’s not a Swiftie (don’t hold that against him!), but he’s a big fan of her choice of ring – a massive antique sparkler that appears to be an 8-carat Old Mine diamond set on gold band – which is a specific cut that dates from the late 19th-century. Lafford says, “Modern diamonds of that size are relatively easy to find, but lack the same allure. Her diamond would have been cut between 120-140 years ago to begin with, and then knowing the history of the diamond alone would be a chapter in a book. I’m quite sure it will spark a huge interest in antique diamonds again. Each of them are so individual and unique.”
For collectors and admirers alike, period cut diamonds are special because each diamond is meticulously studied and finely hand-polished to its final shape. Sam says, “Antique diamonds were cut to sparkle in the sunshine and by candlelight while, by contrast, modern diamond cuts are designed to sparkle in electric light. The beauty of a hand-cut diamond is in its slightly irregular shape, so no two are precisely the same. They have soul!”
SEE MORE: My Jewellery Collection – Karen Higgins
At Studio Lafford, a large portion of Sam’s work is with private clients remounting period cut diamonds as engagement rings (as above). Apart from their history and rarity, they provide a way to create sustainable jewellery pieces. He has also given new life to old cushion cut diamonds, in his An Grá collection, and his Leading Lights collection features antique French cut diamonds.
SEE MORE: All The Glossip – Racing Style, Regattas And Summer Soirées
Claire-Laurence Mestrallet, director of the Jewellery Department at Adam’s Auctioneers, also believes that Taylor’s engagement is going to be an exciting period, with attention being brought back to antique diamonds. “Old-cut diamonds were cut at a time when tools and machinery were not as sophisticated as today, so they are all quite unique.
Old cuts offer more charm, a softer look yet more fire, whereas the modern cuts are all more uniform. If you have the same shape and carat weight as your neighbour, it’s most likely very similar. I applaud Taylor’s desire to have a unique ring. We have several in our upcoming auction. Of course, the estimates in our salesroom versus antique shop retail prices are a no-brainer and make a very wise investment.”
Some of the lots are as follows:
Rose-cut diamond: estimate €3,000-€4,000.
Old Cushion-cut diamond – 2.98cts: estimate €3,000-5,000.
Old European cut 2.94cts: estimate €12,000-€18,000.
Need to know: The Fine Jewellery & Ladies Watches auction takes place on September 9, with previews from September 5. Also, check Adam’s Blackrock Jewellery & Watches online auction that ends on September 10.
SEE MORE: 15 Ways To Fix Your Life And The Experts To Have On Speed Dial
