Sell a Cushion Cut Diamond

Modern cushion vs Old Mine

A modern cushion brilliant (post-2000s) prices like a typical fancy shape. An Old Mine cushion or Old European cut — antique stones with chunkier facets and softer light — has a small collector market and can sell at a premium to dealers who specialize in period jewelry. If yours is antique, mention it explicitly when requesting quotes.

Selling

GIA certification still helps but the lift is smaller than for round, because GIA does not issue a cut grade for cushion. Buyers will judge cut quality themselves. Get multiple offers — the spread between buyers can be wider than for rounds.

FAQ

How much does a cushion cut diamond sell for?

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A 1 carat cushion cut typically resells for $1,100 to $4,400 in the US, about 10% to 15% below an equivalent round brilliant. Larger sizes and vintage cushions (Old Mine) can do better in certain markets.

Modern cushion vs Old Mine cushion — do they sell differently?

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Yes. Modern cushion brilliant cuts price like other fancy shapes. Old Mine cushions (antique, chunkier facets) have a small but real collector market and can sell at a premium to specialist buyers.

What hurts a cushion cut's offer most?

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Poor light return. Cushion cuts have no standardized cut grade, so a flat, lifeless stone is heavily discounted. Side-by-side comparison with a well-cut cushion makes the gap obvious.

Other shapes

• Round
• Oval
• Princess cut
• Emerald cut