When Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce announced their engagement on 26 August 2025, the news wasn’t only about their love story — it also reignited interest in one of jewellery’s most historic diamond styles: the old mine cut.
Kelce, working closely with designer Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewellery, chose a stone that blends romance, rarity and heritage. The result? A ring that feels both deeply personal and timeless, instantly setting new trends in the world of bridal jewellery.
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What Is an Old Mine Cut Diamond?
Old mine cut diamonds date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, long before modern cutting techniques were developed. Each stone was shaped entirely by hand, following the natural outline of the rough diamond. This gave them their distinctive character: slightly asymmetrical shapes, squarish silhouettes with softened corners, and 58 facets that glisten with charm.
Because they were crafted in an era when candlelight lit evening gatherings, these stones were designed to radiate a soft, romantic glow. As jewellery designer Jillian Sassone explains, antique diamonds often sparkle with a warmth and individuality that modern cuts cannot fully replicate.
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Why Taylor’s Ring Matters
While the origins of Swift’s diamond haven’t been officially confirmed, experts agree that original old mine cuts are now extremely rare, as many were re-cut into more modern styles over time. Preserved examples are highly sought-after by collectors.
Kelce and Lubeck heightened the romance of the design by setting the stone in yellow gold, adding vintage warmth and aligning perfectly with today’s resurgence of antique-inspired engagement rings. Neil Dutta of Angelic Diamonds observed that the choice brings a deeply romantic quality that suits Swift perfectly.
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Sustainability and Symbolism
Another reason the old mine cut resonates today is sustainability. Antique stones have been in circulation for generations, making them one of the most environmentally responsible choices in fine jewellery. At a time when lab-grown diamonds are also gaining popularity as an eco-conscious option, the old mine cut offers a blend of history and responsibility.
Even if Swift’s diamond wasn’t sourced from an authentic antique, jewellers point out that modern diamonds can be cut in the old mine style, preserving the historic design for contemporary couples.
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The Price of Brilliance
Valuations of Swift’s engagement ring vary widely. Some experts suggest it could be worth between $3.5 million and $5 million, particularly if the rumoured 20-carat size is correct. Others place the estimate closer to $40,000–£100,000 depending on its characteristics. Either way, the personal touches Kelce added for his fiancée make the ring priceless in meaning.
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Why You’ll Hear More About Old Mine Cuts
With Taylor Swift now at the centre of the conversation, old mine cut diamonds are set for a major resurgence. Their imperfections, history and candlelit glow distinguish them from the sharper precision of modern cuts. They are not merely engagement rings — they are tangible pieces of history, carrying a romance that feels just as relevant today as it did centuries ago.
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How Diamonds4Change Brings Meaning to Every Sparkle
At Diamonds4Change, we celebrate jewellery that tells a story. Taylor Swift’s engagement ring has shone a spotlight on the old mine cut, reminding us that diamonds can be both beautiful and meaningful.
Our mission is to make that meaning even greater. Every piece of jewellery purchased from Diamonds4Change helps fund life-changing projects — from supporting education and clean water access in gemstone communities overseas to providing training and employment opportunities here in the UK for those overcoming homelessness, addiction or social disadvantage.
By choosing ethically sourced and carefully crafted jewellery, you’re not just wearing history — you’re helping to rewrite the future for others. Just as the old mine cut diamond carries centuries of character, your purchase carries the power to bring hope, dignity and opportunity to people who need it most.
So whether you’re inspired by Taylor Swift’s vintage-style engagement ring or searching for your own timeless treasure, explore our collections and discover jewellery that truly makes a difference.