Victorian Old Cut Diamond Half Hoop Ring

An eternally classic c. 1900 late Victorian – Edwardian diamond ring, of a simple elegant half-hoop form set with five old mine cut diamonds (approx. 0.7 ctw) in a raised openwork gallery. The shank and setting are solid 15k gold.

With its higher crown, larger culets, and fewer facets, old mine cuts take advantage of diamonds’ high refractive index to produce a chunkier, more natural shine; indeed, its glitter evokes the old-world romance of mirrors, chandeliers, and gas lamps (rather than the glare of urban light pollution). Each old mine cut diamond was measured by eye and cut by hand, meaning no two old cut diamonds are ever identical.

Half hoop rings like this particular example were immensely popular during the turn-of-the-century; this type of design can be found in most British and American jeweler’s catalogues dating from this period. The simple setting style is ageless, and allows us to enjoy the beauty of the diamonds without interruption. This ring would be a wonderful addition to any serious ring lover’s collection, as it can be worn alone, or as part of a multi-ring stack.