When news broke that Travis Kelce proposed to Taylor Swift with a breath taking antique Old Mine Cut diamond, the jewellery world lit up, and we couldn’t be more delighted to see these extraordinary gems stepping back into the spotlight.

At Lelya we’ve long adored Old Mine Cut diamonds for their soulful sparkle and fascinating history. These aren’t just stones, they’re fragments of the past, hand-cut by master craftspeople over a century ago, each one telling a story as unique as the person who wears it.

A glimpse into the past

Before modern cutting techniques, diamonds were shaped entirely by hand. No lasers, no computer models, just a skilled eye, steady hands, and candlelight to guide each facet. That’s where Old Mine Cuts were born, typically between the 1700s and late 1800s.

Their charm lies in their imperfections: no two are alike, and every subtle asymmetry adds to their character. While modern cuts chase uniformity, these antique gems radiate something deeper. A softer, warmer kind of beauty.

We have created the Taylor Swift Engagement Ring Diamond Edit, especially for you.

What makes them distinctive:

• Romantic glow (a gentler, candlelit sparkle),
• Chunky facets (larger surfaces that play with light differently),
• Timeless form (high crowns and deep pavilions give them a bold, sculptural silhouette),
• Living history (each diamond has seen generations before you).

Taylor’s ring & why it matters

Taylor’s reported 8-carat Old Mine Brilliant Cut diamond has already sparked global fascination, and for good reason. Set in a yellow gold bezel with delicate prongs, it perfectly marries heritage craftsmanship with a modern sensibility.

But beyond its size or value, Taylor’s ring shines a light on something bigger: a growing love for jewellery that feels personal, meaningful, and enduring, all values that underline Lelya's existence.

Why Couples Are Choosing Antique Diamonds

We’re seeing more and more people drawn to antique and Old Mine Cut diamonds, and not just because celebrities are wearing them. There’s something undeniably romantic about choosing a diamond that already carries a story. Think about it!

• Uniqueness (no two are ever the same),
• Sustainability (giving new life to diamonds already in existence),
• Emotion (a softer, more soulful sparkle than modern precision cuts),
• Heritage (craftsmanship that connects us to the past).

These diamonds don’t just symbolise love today. They become heirlooms to carry forward.

Creating Your Own Timeless Piece

At Lelya, we travel the world to source genuine antique diamonds from trusted partners, hand-selecting each stone for its character, charm, and beauty. From there, we design settings that celebrate the individuality of your chosen diamond while reflecting your personal style.

Whether you envision a delicate solitaire or a bold statement piece, your ring will be crafted to last a lifetime, and designed to be treasured for generations.

Start Your Journey Now

In partnership with Misfit Diamonds, offer a collection of:

• Genuine antique diamonds - rare, storied, and timeless
• Modern antique-inspired diamonds - custom-cut to capture the charm of true Old Mine and Old European Cuts, perfect when you love the vintage aesthetic but want a stone tailored to your vision.

If Taylor’s ring has inspired you, our curated collection of Old Mine Cut Diamonds offers something truly special: rare, romantic pieces waiting to be transformed into your perfect ring.

Fill our bespoke commission form here or email Rebecca at customerservice@lelya.co.uk to explore your options.

Because your love story deserves a ring that’s as unique as you are.

*Photos courtesy of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce