Foe & Dear | Antique Diamonds

Environmentally conscious jewelry provides an opportunity for unique design practices to be introduced. The Foe & Dear team always want to see what other avenues we can explore. Working with our clients to build their one-of-a-kind rings has led us to introduce a new facet on our website.

Create Your Own Ring is a feature that allows anyone to personally choose their own ring setting and diamond/gemstone from the very start. We collaborated with our dear friends at Misfit Diamonds to bring you this new way of ring creation. Along with this new feature, we'll be providing antique diamonds as a stone option.

We caught up with Ash, owner and operator of Misfit Diamonds, to discuss his love for history, innovation, and resourcefulness that encompasses the life of an antique diamond.

What makes antique diamonds a unique approach to sustainable jewelry making?

Each diamond tells a story, it comes with it’s own lore and connection to history. It’s a piece of the past that can never be replicated. Creating a ring with an antique diamond allows the owner to wear a piece of history.  

By using an antique diamond you're reclaiming a previously loved piece with low environmental impact. No additional mining takes places and it minimizes your carbon footprint.

Where are they sourced?

They can come from places all around the world. I work with a network of reputable vintage estate jewellers to source our diamond selection. No two are the same, which enhances the unique and rare nature of the diamond.

What kind of cuts are available? Is there much variety in shape and size?

The European and antique cutting techniques that were used adds to the caliber of each piece. Each piece has a romantic and euphoric quality to it. They usually have a softer look as they were made to be viewed under candle light.

They're are a variety of cuts depending on the era and origin of the stone. Anything from Rose and Old Mine cuts are available for design. 

What is the best part about using antique over newly cut?

The cutting techniques and historical significance behind each piece pay homage to an older element of design. The story intertwined with the culture and era of the diamond is a rare gift. Incorporating that style into a modern ring setting makes a wonderful pairing for a ring.

What tones and colours are the most popular?

As far as colour tone, they vary from yellow to jade, depending  on the era in which they were mined. Similar to fashion, diamonds go through trends of popularity. Warmer tones became very popular in the 70’s and 80’s. It's truly a pleasure to educate people on the world of ethical jewelry making. The possibilities are endless when you work with an antique diamond.

Explore Create Your Own Ring here 

Follow Ash and his diamond journey here