Timeless Allure of Antique-Style Old European Cut Moissanite Rings

The Timeless Beauty of Old European Cut Moissanite Rings

Old European cut moissanite rings exude a classic, vintage elegance that is timeless and romantic. Inspired by antique styles, these rings feature an oval or round brilliant-cut moissanite stone with a distinctive facet pattern. The old European cut has a small table, high crown, and large culet, creating beautiful scintillation and fire. As moissanite is extraordinarily brilliant, an old European cut moissanite maximizes light return for exceptional sparkle.

The History of Old European Cut Gemstones

The old European cut diamond emerged in the late 19th century and was widely used for engagement rings and other jewelry until the 1930s. During this era, diamond cutting techniques aimed to emphasize brilliance and fire over other factors. The old European cut achieved this with its steep pavilion angles and high crown.

In 1919, mathematician Marcel Tolkowsky published his thesis on diamond cut design, which shifted preferences to a modern round brilliant cut with lower crown and pavilion angles. By the 1940s, the modern round brilliant cut dominated the diamond market while the old European cut became obsolete.

In recent decades, the old European cut has experienced a revival among vintage and antique-style engagement ring lovers. Modern jewelers now offer old European cut moissanite rings that capture the aesthetic of antique diamond rings at a fraction of the price.

Benefits of Choosing an Old European Cut Moissanite Ring

An old European cut moissanite ring offers several advantages:

• Unique, vintage-inspired style unlike standard modern diamond cuts
• Incredible brilliance and fire from the facet pattern and moissanite's refractive index
• Lower price than a comparable old European cut diamond ring
• Ethically sourced and conflict-free moissanite gemstone
• Durable 9.25 moissanite hardness to stand up to daily wear

Old European cut moissanite delivers plenty of sparkle and personality. Its unique look provides an affordable alternative to diamond that aligns with antique-loving, socially conscious buyers.

Selecting an Old European Cut Moissanite Ring Setting

Old European cut moissanite stones work beautifully in a range of vintage-inspired settings, including:

• Filigree settings: Delicate filigree metalwork surrounds the stone with sophistication and old-world charm.
• Halo settings: Tiny pavé stones encircle the center moissanite for added sparkle.
• Three stone settings: Two smaller moissanite stones flank the old European cut center stone.
• Split shank settings: The band splits into two as it approaches the center stone.
• Scrolling & milgrain details: Intricate engraved swirls and bead accents border the band and setting.

Colors like rose gold, yellow gold, sterling silver, or platinum complement old European cut moissanite's warm hues. The ring can feature diamond, sapphire, or other accent stones for a multi-gem look.

How to Care for an Old European Cut Moissanite Ring

Moissanite rings are relatively low maintenance compared to other gemstones. However, taking proper care of your ring will keep it sparkling beautifully for years to come:

• Clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush. Soak in an ammonia-based jewelry cleaner occasionally.
• Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are safe for moissanite.
• When not wearing, store moissanite rings separately from other jewelry.
• Avoid exposing moissanite to harsh chemicals like bleach, acid, and pool/spa chemicals.
• Remove rings before physical activities like exercising, gardening, cleaning.
• Get annual checkups with your jeweler to assess the prongs and engraving.

With occasional cleanings and care, an old European cut moissanite ring will maintain its vintage elegance and withstand daily wear. The durability and brilliance of moissanite make it well-suited for engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry pieces.

Embrace Timeless Romance with an Old European Cut Moissanite Ring

Old European cut moissanite rings amalgamate turn-of-the-century charm with contemporary elegance. Their unique faceting patterns shine brightly with moissanite's impressive brilliance and fire. Beyond stunning antique aesthetics, old European cut moissanite offers affordability, durability, and ethical sourcing.

For the bride-to-be desiring a ring with lavish sparkle, meaningful history, and vintage style, old European cut moissanite beautifully fits the bill. Let a ring with this ageless cut speak to your timeless love and cherished union. The old European cut's romantic legacy spanning centuries embodies a lasting commitment and bright future together.

FAQs

What is an old European cut gemstone?

An old European cut is a vintage style of faceting a gemstone, especially diamonds, that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It features a small table, high crown, large culet, and steep pavilion angles to maximize brilliance.

Are old European cut moissanite rings durable?

Yes, old European cut moissanite rings are very durable thanks to moissanite's hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite's durability makes it well-suited for daily wear and engagement rings.

How sparkly are old European cut moissanite rings?

Old European cut moissanite rings exhibit exceptional brilliance and fire. The facet pattern showcases moissanite's refractive index, resulting in a very sparkly, light-filled old European cut stone.

What settings work with old European cut moissanite?

Filigree, halo, three-stone, split shank, and milgrain engraved settings beautifully complement old European cut moissanite stones. Vintage-inspired settings in rose, yellow, or white gold work well.

How do I clean and care for an old European cut moissanite ring?

Clean moissanite rings regularly with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Use an ammonia-based jewelry cleaner occasionally. Avoid harsh chemicals and be careful during physical activities. Get annual checkups with your jeweler.