Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Old Mine Cut: The Diamond Debate Inspired by Taylor Swift
Quick Summary
Taylor Swift’s engagement ring has sparked a debate over its diamond style, with many asking if it’s an elongated cushion cut or an old mine cut. Both shapes carry charm, but they differ in history, appearance, and sparkle. The old mine cut, popular in the 1700s and 1800s, was hand-cut for candlelight glow and is now prized by vintage collectors. The elongated cushion is a modern evolution, delivering brilliance, fire, and a flattering lengthened shape. At Keyzar Jewelry, this cut shines in settings like The Charlotte, The Stephanie, and The Elizabeth, which highlight its versatility and elegance. For couples comparing the elongated cushion cut vs. old mine cut diamonds, the elongated cushion cut offers timeless beauty with durability for everyday wear.
Celebrity engagement rings often spark conversations that ripple across fashion, jewelry, and pop culture. Taylor Swift’s engagement ring is no exception: its vintage-inspired design has set off a lively debate, with some admirers describing the diamond as an elongated cushion cut and others identifying it as an old mine cut. This question has inspired many couples to look into these two styles when designing their own engagement rings.
The elongated cushion cut stands out for its modern origin, elegant shape, and radiant sparkle. It’s considered an evolution of vintage styles, blending brilliance with a flattering, lengthened silhouette. In this guide, we’ll outline the main differences between this diamond shape and the old mine cut, and share tips for designing your own elongated cushion cut engagement ring at Keyzar.
Why Taylor Swift’s Engagement Ring Has Everyone Talking
Taylor Swift’s engagement ring from Travis Kelce didn’t just draw attention because of who was wearing it: the diamond itself sparked conversation. Its vintage-inspired style, paired with a yellow gold setting, captured the imagination of fans and jewelry enthusiasts alike. According to Elle, questions about the stone’s cut began circulating online, fueling a debate that hasn’t slowed down.
The diamond at the center of her ring has been described as both an elongated cushion and an old mine cut, which explains the surge in online searches for ‘elongated cushion cut vs. old mine cut.’ This debate highlights the way a single celebrity moment can shape how people look at diamond styles. For couples exploring engagement rings, it’s the perfect time to understand what sets the elongated cushion cut apart and why it’s become such a desirable choice.
What Is an Old Mine Cut?
Dating back to the 1700s, the old mine cut is one of the earliest diamond shapes to gain widespread popularity. It remained a favorite through the late 1800s, admired for its hand-cut character and antique charm. Because each stone was crafted by hand, no two are exactly alike, giving these antique diamonds a sense of individuality that only enhanced their appeal.
The old mine cut is characterized by its squarish outline, high crown, small table, and an open culet at the bottom. Unlike modern cuts that maximize brilliance, these vintage cut diamonds were made to glow in candlelight, producing a warm and gentle sparkle. Today, they’re sought after by collectors and brides who want a ring that feels historic and carries the romance of another era.
What Is an Elongated Cushion Cut?
Defined by its vintage charm and romantic grace, the elongated cushion cut is a variation of the classic cushion shape. It has 77 brilliant facets that amplify the stone’s fire while its elongated, pillow-like outline makes the diamond appear larger on the finger compared to a round or perfectly square stone of the same carat weight.
Aside from Taylor Swift, the elongated cushion has been embraced by celebrities such as Sofia Vergara, helping it skyrocket in popularity among couples searching for an engagement ring that stands out while remaining timeless. According to Page Six, online searches for these cushion cuts have surged by nearly 10,000% since Travis Kelce and Taylor announced their engagement!
Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Old Mine Cut: Key Differences
When you compare the elongated cushion and the old mine cut diamond, you can see how each offers a different kind of charm. The elongated cushion cut is a modern evolution, designed for brilliance and a refined silhouette. The old mine cut diamond, by contrast, reflects its 18th- and 19th-century origins, created by hand to glow in softer, candlelit settings.
|
Feature |
Elongated Cushion Cut |
Old Mine Cut |
|
Shape |
Rectangular with soft, rounded corners |
Squarish outline with higher crown and open culet |
|
Sparkle |
Brilliant cut, fiery light return |
Warm, gentle glow |
|
Era |
Modern evolution with vintage appeal |
Antique heritage, popular in 1700s–1800s |
|
Feel |
Glamorous, versatile, flattering on the finger |
Historic, romantic, and rich with character |
|
Durability |
Stronger structure with protected corners |
Open culet can be more vulnerable |
|
Style Fit |
Works seamlessly in modern or vintage-inspired settings |
Best suited for antique-style rings |
Keyzar Engagement Rings That Shine With an Elongated Cushion Cut
Elongated cushion cut diamonds look beautiful in any setting, but when you combine them with a vintage-inspired engagement ring like Taylor’s, the result is especially breathtaking. At Keyzar, we have vintage-style settings that display this cut to its ultimate advantage.
The Charlotte
The Charlotte is a bezel-set solitaire that blends vintage chic with hidden sparkle. The sleek metal frame cradles the diamond securely while a strip of pavé-set diamonds is tucked beneath, adding shimmer without overwhelming the design. An elongated cushion cut looks especially striking here because the bezel enhances its rectangular silhouette, drawing the eye to the stone’s soft corners. The added pavé detail catches light from different angles, amplifying the brilliance of the center diamond while keeping the overall look refined and elegant.
The Stephanie
The Stephanie is inspired by vintage artistry. It features ornate milgrain detailing and a graceful, high-profile design that brings out the romance of the center stone. An elongated cushion cut complements this style perfectly because the lengthened shape pairs naturally with the setting’s intricate curves. The cut’s balance of sparkle and soft edges works in harmony with the milgrain flourishes, creating a ring that feels heirloom-worthy while still modern enough for everyday wear.
The Elizabeth
The Elizabeth engagement ring is an ideal match for an elongated cushion cut diamond because its design naturally emphasizes the stone’s graceful shape. The engraved vine pattern and milgrain detailing add vintage charm that pairs beautifully with the cut’s soft, romantic edges. At the same time, the narrow band and four delicate prongs draw attention upward, allowing the elongated cushion cut to look larger and more brilliant. The result is a ring that feels timeless yet distinctive, with every element working together to showcase the center stone at its most captivating.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift’s engagement ring reignited interest in two beloved diamond cuts: the elongated cushion cut and the old mine cut. The buzz surrounding her vintage-inspired design has helped many people discover the history and beauty behind these shapes. While the old mine cut is cherished as an heirloom diamond, the elongated cushion cut offers a balance of brilliance, elegance, and modern appeal.
At Keyzar, you can explore the elongated cushion cut in a variety of settings that highlight its sparkle and flattering silhouette. If you’re ready to create an engagement ring that feels timeless yet personal, Keyzar makes it simple to bring your vision to life. Shop now and make it yours!
