The Old-World Romance of Candlelight Diamonds

Discover candlelight diamonds, one-of-a-kind stones with a romantic history dating back to the 15th century.

Published: October 29, 2025
Written by: Meredith Lepore

Candlelight Diamonds: Old Mine Cut Diamond by Single Stone — (Courtesy of Single Stone)

If you tend to look at jewelry or rings on social media, then there is a good chance your algorithm is pushing something called candlelight diamonds on you. They are having a major moment right now for a few reasons, but mostly due to Taylor Swift (as it goes for most things in life).

When Taylor Swift got engaged to Travis Kelce back in September, it was revealed that her ring was an Old Mine-cut diamond; the search for this term on Google surged nearly 10,000%.

So what does this have to do with candelight diamonds? A candlelight diamond is an antique diamond whose facet pattern and proportions were designed to reflect light in the softer, romantic glow of candlelight, rather than the intense sparkle of modern lighting.

Meet the Expert

The Old-World Romance of Candlelight Diamonds

Lauren Addison is the Owner/Designer of Lauren Addison Jewelry, a bespoke jewelry brand based in NYC.
She is a private jeweler, gemologist, and industry veteran with nearly 20 years in the business.
She designs and styles one-of-a-kind pieces for private clients.

Diamonds that fall into this category include Old Mine-cut, Old European-cut, and Rose-cut diamonds. It should be noted that candlelight diamonds refers to many diamonds that were cut before electricity and were made to amplify their sparkle in the warmth of candlelight instead of bright artificial lights.

Candlelight diamonds are especially coveted right now because they are both unique and irregular. No one is alike. Unlike modern diamonds cut to precise specifications, each of these diamonds is impacted by the craftsman who worked on them with meticulous detail. They have an essence of old-world romance that is irresistible to many.

With their warm glow and historic charm, these antique cuts are more than just beautiful—they’re extra meaningful. Ahead, discover why candlelight diamonds have become some of the most coveted engagement ring center stones.

Candlelight Diamonds Through the Ages

Diamond cutting in New York — Diamond cutters in NYC 1870s

The art of diamond cutting dates back even before the 12th century, when early lapidaries first experimented with shaping rough stones. But it wasn’t until much later that candlelight diamonds truly came into their own. With their larger facets, high crowns, and gentle brilliance, these shapes include Old Mine-cut, Old European-cut, and rose-cut diamonds.

Rose Cut Diamonds

Candlelight diamonds: Rose Cut Diamond Ring by Grace Lee — Rose Cut diamond ring. (Courtesy of Grace Lee)

Rose cut diamonds predate Old Mine cuts, with origins tracing back to India a thousand years ago. By the 1520s, they had become the preferred diamond style in Europe. Defined by a flat back and a domed crown covered in triangular facets, rose cuts were fashioned in a variety of shapes—round, oval, pear, and more. With fewer facets than later cuts, they produce an elegant, soft glow.

Old Mine Cut Diamonds

old mine cut diamond three stone ring — Old Mine Cut diamond ring. (Courtesy of Erstwhile)

Old Mine Cut diamonds are the stones most often associated with candlelight diamonds. Rising to popularity in the 18th century after the discovery of Brazilian diamond deposits in the 1720s, they became a hallmark of Georgian and Victorian jewelry. Hand-cut to follow the natural shape of the rough, these diamonds feature a cushion-like outline, high crown, small table, and open culet, all of which give them their signature gentle sparkle. The term Antique cushion cut, which you may hear sometimes in relation to candlelight diamonds, is technically an Old Mine cut.

Old European Cut Diamonds

jessica mccormack recycled diamond jewelry — Old European Cut diamond ring. (Courtesy of Jessica McCormack)

With advances in cutting technology by the late 1800s, the Old European-cut began to replace the Old Mine-cut. Rounder in shape and featuring a larger table, smaller culet, and more symmetrical facets, these diamonds offered improved light return (the way a diamond reflects light back to the eye, creating sparkle) and a more balanced appearance. The Old European-cut clearly foreshadows the modern Round Brilliant, making it an important bridge in diamond-cutting history.

Why Candlelight Diamonds Are Popular Right Now

Candlelight diamonds: taylor swift engagement ring — Taylor Swift’s antique elongated cushion cut diamond engagement ring (Instagram: @taylorswift)

Taylor Swift could make dirt popular, but as we have seen on social media platforms, there is a strong desire for “#heirloomenergy.” Candlelight diamonds capture that mood perfectly: they offer individuality and vintage vibes, while also appealing to sustainability-minded couples since the stones are often antique or recycled.

“While these stones have always been sought after, their recent surge in popularity has to do not only with their old-world charm, but a modern emphasis on individuality and sustainability. Unlike modern diamonds that are cut for symmetry and sparkle, antique diamonds prioritized fire and warmth, producing gems that were unique in shape and character. No two stones were alike – and that is something that resonates with today’s consumer,” Lauren Addison, owner of Lauren Addison Jewelry, said.

How to Shop for Candlelight Diamonds

Candlelight diamonds: Old European cut diamond vintage ring on hand. — Old European Cut diamond ring. (Courtesy of Erstwhile)

If you are thinking of purchasing a candelight antique diamond, here are some things you need to keep in mind.

Candlelight diamonds are less about chasing perfection on a grading report, and more about finding a stone with the right personality. These diamonds were originally cut by hand in the 18th and 19th centuries to shimmer under candlelight, which means they often have quirks and irregularities that give them their unmistakable charm.