Square cut diamonds have been one of the most popular diamond shapes throughout history, ever since they first emerged during the 14th Century. When humans started to polish gemstones, they only had the tools to create round shapes such as cabochons. However, when the technology was invented in order to create square cut diamond jewellery pieces, they would become extremely popular. Square cut diamonds are beautiful when displayed as the focal part of a jewellery piece, and also as part of a larger design. Vintage square engagement rings and jewellery display the innovative thought and ingenuity of historical stonecutters.
It is thought amongst jewellery historians that the square cut diamond was invented in the 14th Century, as they wanted to optimise the rough diamond crystals that were difficult to form. This early square cut diamond shape was known as the Table cut, and while it was popular circa it’s invention, experienced a large revival during the Tudor era. Many of our square cut diamond jewellery pieces are from this period, and many of our vintage square engagement rings would be worn during the reigns of Henry VII, all the way through to Queen Elizabeth I.
As history progressed, other styles of square cut diamond would have their era of immense popularity. French cut diamond rings, which derived from both the point cut and the table cut, would also be popular over hundreds of years. Square cut diamond shapes have always had a following since they were invented in the 1300s, due to their immense shine and sophistication. Square cut diamonds are vibrant and dynamic, making vintage square engagement rings a popular choice for many couples.
One of the periods in which square cut diamonds were most popular was during the 1920s. During the 1920s, society wanted a break away from the floral and flowing artistic motifs of the Edwardian period, which was viewed as too traditional during this period. The artists, flappers, movie actresses and socialites wanted something new and different, and thus, the art deco movement was born. Art Deco engagement rings and jewellery often have clean lines and geometric gemstone shapes, resulting in square cut diamonds receiving a huge surge of popularity. The modern and chic look of square cut diamond jewellery represented political and societal change, and the reign of a new era. Vintage square engagement rings from the Art Deco period remain popular even today, as their modern allure still resonates 100 years later.
Since the 1920s, square cut diamonds have experienced technological developments and garnered new interest. The square modified brilliant cut, otherwise known as the ‘Princess cut’ was invented in the 1980s by Betazel Ambar, Ygal Perlman, and Israel Itzkowitz. Princess square cut diamond rings have become one of the most popular choices for people looking for vintage square engagement rings, due to their elegance and prestige.
Square cut diamond jewellery has a long history of opulence and popularity, firmly securing their place as some of the most popular diamond styles of all time. If any of our vintage square engagement rings, brooches, bracelets, pendants or earrings catch your eye, please be in touch with us at Berganza. You can contact us here online, or you can visit us in person, at our Hatton Garden showroom.
Our team of jewellery experts are on hand to answer your questions online or in-store.
