Old Mine Cut vs. European Cut Diamonds: Which is Brighter?

Question
Which cut is likely to produce a more brilliant diamond, old mine, or european? Are todays cuts substantially better or worse? (All assuming the same color/clarity)


Answer
Hi Beth,

Old Mine cut is the oldest cut and contains the least amount of facets.  European is quite a bit better as it contains more facets to push the light back through the table.  Keep in mind, depth of the pavilion and proportion affect the diamond significantly no matter what the cut.  

The modern round brilliant cut (when cut correctly) is actually a mathematical equation for perfection in a diamond cut.  It creates a diamond in which all light entering the diamond through the table will bounce of the pavilion facets and return through the table, without any light "leaking" out.  This produces the most brilliance and sparkle in a diamond.

You can see an example of this along with excellent diamond information here:
http://www.yourgemologist.com/diamond.html  

That happens to be my favorite site, with a forum, for gemological discussion.

The modern round brilliant cut or ideal cut are more than substantially better than the older cuts, unless of course you are looking for the character of an antique diamond in an antique setting.

Lisa