The current fad among diamond cuts tends toward elaborate cuts that show off the fire of the diamond and showcase the clarity and color, such as the flat faced, rectangular Emerald cut, or the increasingly popular square faced princess cut, the favoured cuts of days gone by were simpler in design, with more of an emphasis on classic lines that showmanship. A perfect example of this difference is the antique cushion cut diamond.

Also known as pillow cut, cushion cut diamonds have fewer facets than modern cuts, as many as twenty fewer, with an average facet number of about 60. This simpler design leads to an almost fluffy appearance, causing the diamond to resemble nothing so much as an overstuffed cushion, or pillow, hence the name. Cushion cut diamonds have a solid appearance, giving a weight and steadiness to the diamond that could be said to be lacking in the sparkly gems of today.

Another name for the cushion cut diamond is the candlelight diamond. This is because the cut was most popular toward the end of the nineteenth century and into the early part of the twentieth century, at which time the most common form of household illumination was candlelight. The cut was therefore designed to be most spectacular when viewed by candlelight.

Famous antique cushion cut diamonds include the Graff diamond, a smaller diamond compared to its peers but one having almost perfect color and clarity, and the famously cursed Hope diamond. While the Graff diamond is known for its internal flawlessness and perfect D color, the Hope diamond is a dark, smoky blue from traces of Boron, giving it an almost sinister appearance. Despite their differences, both these famous diamonds have a definite personality that is only enhanced by the classic cushion cut.

Most often found in antique shops and among family heirlooms, cushion cuts offer a unique appeal that is lacking in the more common cuts of today’s diamonds. Any wearer of an antique cushion cut diamond will surely have an easy conversation piece wherever she goes, and will never be without compliments of the beauty and uniqueness of her ring.