The Allure of Antique Coffin Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

The Unique Allure of Coffin Cut Diamond Rings

Diamond rings have captivated people for centuries with their breathtaking sparkle and symbolism of everlasting love. And in recent years, there has been a growing demand for unique, custom-designed rings that make a statement. Enter: the coffin cut diamond ring. What is it about this distinct diamond shape that makes it stand out from the classic round brilliant?

What is a Coffin Cut Diamond?

The coffin cut refers to an antique diamond cut that dates back to the 1800s. It features a rectangular or kite-shaped outline and stepped facets resembling a tiny staircase. Unlike the standard 57 or 58 facets found in today's round diamonds, the coffin cut has just 17 facets. But don’t let the lower facet count fool you. Coffin cut diamonds boast exceptionally bright white sparkle and light return.

The coffin cut was created in an era before precise diamond cutting technology existed. Cutters had to rely solely on skill and experience to hand-cut each individual stone. This made coffin shaped diamonds rare and highly prized. While the cut eventually faded from popularity in the early 1900s, it remains a vintage lover’s dream.

Why Put a Coffin Cut Diamond in an Engagement Ring?

There are several reasons coffin cut diamond rings make an ideal engagement ring choice for modern brides:

• They have old-world glamour and romance
• Each diamond has unique character
• The elongated shape creates a slimming effect on the finger
• The cut takes brilliance to new visual heights

In other words, not only are coffin cut diamonds breathtakingly beautiful, but they hold special sentimental meaning. Since surviving stones are rare antiques, they carry the history of past wearers with them.

Finding the Perfect Coffin Cut Diamond Ring

If you’re looking to pop the question with a ring that’s as unique as your paramour, consider having a custom coffin cut engagement ring designed. Here’s what to look for when sourcing this distinctive diamond shape:

• Cut quality – Due to the diamond cutting limitations of the era, coffin cut diamonds tend to be shallow with noticeable inclusions. Select one with cleaner clarity and a depth percentage between 50-70% where possible.
• Color – These antique diamonds commonly rate K-Z on the color scale. However, look for tinges of yellow, brown and grey which indicate the stone is old. The best colors are I-J for brighter sparkle.
• Carat – Coffin diamonds typically weigh between .50 to 2 carats. Stick within this size range so the stone’s elongated shape is not overwhelmed by the ring setting.
• Certificate - Ensure any coffin cut diamond you’re considering comes with an authentication report from a respected gemological lab like GIA or AGS.

Designing a Custom Ring with Vintage Inspiration

Of course, finding a flawless antique coffin diamond is hardly realistic for most of today’s brides- and grooms-to-be. The good news? You can custom design an engagement ring with all the vintage charm of an antique original. Modern cuts like the kite shaped diamond mimic the elongated facets and outline of historical coffin cuts. They offer perfect brilliance balanced with old-fashioned glamour.

Incorporate filigree and engraving

Filigree detailing and hand engraving add an instant touch of heirloom romance. Ask your jeweler to incorporate filigree sides or an engraved gallery beneath the center diamond for added dimension.

Play with multiple stone shapes

Mixing diamond cuts can make for inspired engagement ring designs. Consider pairing a kite-shaped diamond with trillion side stones. Or design an asymmetrical look with various shaped diamonds across the band.

Give it an artsy deco vibe

For serious vintage appeal, go Art Deco. This style defined by geometric lines, filigree, and baguette diamonds is the perfect complement to a coffin cut sparkler. Ask your jeweler about incorporating milgrain edges and a split shank band into the ring design.

Yellow gold or platinum?

While white metals dominate engagement jewelry today, yellow 18K gold provides a nice nod to antique ring styling. For those who prefer platinum or white gold, adding a hint of warmth with rose gold accents can give that vintage mood. Simply switching out plain metal with a two-tone mix screams Old World romance.

Coffin Cut Diamonds: A Timeless Symbol of Love

In the world of unusual diamond cuts, the coffin shape stands alone in its intrigue and rich heritage. There are no other diamond cuts steeped in such history and symbolic meaning. nor many that come close to rivaling its gorgeous brightness and light return. Despite their rarity, these glamorous antique diamonds feel at once modern and Old World.

For couples searching for "the one", look no further. A custom coffin cut engagement ring serves as the ultimate emblem of steadfast love and commitment. Let the rareness of the diamond signify finding that once in a lifetime match. And allow its antiquity represent a love as enduring as the ages.

FAQs

What is a coffin cut diamond?

A coffin cut diamond refers to a rare, antique diamond cut featuring a rectangular or kite-shaped outline and just 17 facets. The cut dates back to the 1800s and creates exceptional brightness despite the low facet count.

Are coffin cut diamonds still available?

Genuine antique coffin cut diamonds are extremely rare. However, modern cuts like the kite diamond mimic the elongated shape and vintage look. Custom engagement rings can also be designed with coffin cut inspiration.

What metals pair best with a coffin cut?

Yellow gold provides a nice nod to antique styling for coffin cut rings. However, white metals like platinum and white gold suit this elongated diamond shape, too. Adding rose gold accents creates vintage appeal.

Should I choose a coffin cut lab diamond?

If sourcing a rare antique coffin diamond proves challenging, consider a lab-grown version. You can custom design a ring with an eco-friendly lab coffin diamond for exceptional brilliance without the prohibitive price of natural diamonds.