The size of the Diamond: Antique cut diamond or Modern cut diamond

Although diamonds have been known as a gemstone for almost 2000 years, the first attempt to cut them was only made in the 14th century. Around 1400, the "table" stone appeared. In the middle of the 16th century, this stone with a flat surface was improved into a faceted stone called the uncut stone with a polygonal table. At the initiative of Cardinal Mazarin in 1650, the 18 facets in the previous cut were cut to obtain 34 facets, the edge called "rondiste" was also polished. This cut was called Mazarin cut.

At the end of the 18th century, a Venetian lapidary succeeded in cutting 58 facets. This diamond cut, although still imperfect, was the precursor of the modern cut known today.

The modern brilliant cut was developed around 1910. The round cut is perfectly round, with a minimum of 32 facets. Several variations of the modern cut existed before arriving at the modern cut we know today.

The diamonds on diamond jewelry must be related to the era of the jewelry. As a highly patrimonial good, diamonds are transmitted from generation to generation, and it is thus common to find antique diamonds dating from the 19th century reassembled on contemporary diamond jewelry. 

The most beautiful diamonds are those set on diadems and royal crowns, these gems, of antique size, bring an additional charm to the antique jewels which support them.