How to Select a European Cut Diamond

Diamond rings come in many antique styles, including a European cut.

Modern diamonds have three parts. The crown and table are the top of the diamond and form the flat part of the diamond's top. The pavillion and culet are the bottom of the diamond and form a facet at the diamond's bottom. The diamond's girdle separates the diamond's top from its bottom. The European cut is unlike its modern counterpart as it is an antique type of diamond, and it maximizes the diamond's size, not brilliance.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Car or public transportation

Instructions

1. Go to a store or online website that sells antique jewelry, including European-cut diamonds. Be aware of your budget.

2. Ask the clerk to see the store's selection of European-cut diamonds. Search the Internet for places that sell them if you are using a computer.

3. Consider the antique European-cut diamond's differences from that of a modern cut (thicker girdle, smaller table, deeper pavillion, higher crown). Look for the Old European cut's trademarks: a great overall depth, small table, and a circular girdle like a modern brilliant-cut diamond.

4. Consider your wants and budget. Choose a European-cut diamond that fits both criteria.

Tips & Warnings

• When searching the Internet, make sure the websites are genuine and transmit information securely.

References

• "Topazery.com"; Antique Jewelry at Topazery; Topazery, LLC; 2011