Get the Look: Zendaya's Engagement Ring

Old mine cut diamonds represent a fascinating chapter in the evolution of diamond cutting, emerging during a time when each stone was meticulously shaped by hand. Originating in the diamond cutting centers of Brazil and India during the 1700s and continuing through the early 1900s, these diamonds predate modern precision cutting techniques. Before the advent of standardized cutting methods, skilled artisans would carefully shape each diamond to maximize its natural form and brilliance, resulting in stones with extraordinary individual character.

Physically, old mine cut diamonds are distinguished by their unique geometric profile. Unlike the mathematically precise modern brilliant cuts, these vintage diamonds feature a squarish shape with softly rounded corners. They boast a notably high crown (top section) and a deep pavilion (bottom section), creating a more pronounced three-dimensional appearance. The table—the flat top surface of the diamond—is significantly smaller compared to contemporary cuts, which allows for larger, more dramatic facets that create broader, more dramatic light reflections.

The cutting process for these historic diamonds was entirely manual, with each stone carefully shaped using rudimentary tools and the artisan's expert eye. This hand-crafted approach means that no two old mine cut diamonds are exactly alike, each bearing subtle variations that tell a story of craftsmanship and individual attention. Their larger facets capture and reflect light differently from modern cuts, producing a softer, more romantic sparkle characterized by broader flashes of light rather than the intense, pinpoint brilliance of contemporary diamond cuts.

Focus on three key design elements when capturing the essence of Zendaya’s engagement ring look and feel: oval diamond cut, east-west setting orientation, and mixed-metal band style.

For the diamond, consider elongated cuts that echo the vintage charm of an old mine cut. Oval and cushion cut diamonds in particular offer similar soft, romantic characteristics. These shapes provide a vintage-inspired silhouette while maintaining a contemporary appeal. We recommend selecting stones with larger facets and a softer brilliance to capture the old mine cut's distinctive light performance.

The east-west orientation combined with a bezel setting is also a crucial part to achieving this look. This orientation places the elongated diamond horizontally across the band, creating an unconventional and striking profile. While traditional settings position diamonds vertically, the east-west arrangement offers a modern, unexpected twist that immediately distinguishes the ring. And the bezel setting can provide a sleek, contemporary frame for the diamond, achieving a minimalist look with the added benefit of a very secure setting for the stone.

A smooth polished band is the final key component. And if you love mixed metals—particularly combining yellow gold with gray or black gold—that touch will authentically capture Zendaya's ring aesthetic. But for those preferring a more understated approach, a clean metal band will perfectly capture the design’s essence.

These design elements inspire a range of stunning engagement ring possibilities. For a stunning solitaire, east-west setting, our Emi is a great example of an oval cut diamond capturing the romantic appeal of an old-mine cut. Emmanuelle features another gorgeous oval cut diamond in a bezel setting with side clusters of bezel-set diamonds. And if you love the old mine cut diamond, our Katie pairs a lovely one with a sleek and sophisticated bezel-set, solitaire setting, capturing the elevated elegance of Zendaya’s engagement ring.

Ultimately, the perfect engagement ring is one that resonates with your unique story and style, whether it mirrors Zendaya's engagement ring design or charts its own distinctive path!