The Peruzzi cut is one of the most fascinating and rare diamond cuts in history. I’m always eager to explore it — not only because I’m a jeweller (a true professional learns something new every day), but also because Peruzzi was Italian, and we Italians have a soft spot for our glorious past.
What Is the Peruzzi Cut and Why It Matters in Diamond History
For centuries, diamonds — the hardest material found in nature — were cut in a very rudimentary way. During the Renaissance, the only available shapes were the point cut and a few variations of the rough crystal’s natural form.
A point cut diamond mounted on a Renaissance style ring by
Early Diamond Cuts: Point Cut and Rough Shapes
For a long time, diamonds were shaped very simply, following almost the natural outline of the crystal.
A point cut diamond mounted on a Renaissance style ring by
The Mazarin Cut: The First Revolution (1640)
In 1640, Cardinal Mazarin introduced an innovative cut: for the first time, a diamond featured a flat table and 17 crown facets and 17 on the pavillion, for a total of 34. A fundamental step forward in the evolution of diamond cutting.
Vincenzo Peruzzi and the Birth of the 58-Facet Cut
A few decades later, the Venetian cutter Vincenzo Peruzzi refined Mazarin’s concept and created a diamond with 33 facets on the crown and 25 on the pavillion, for a total of 58 facets. This marked the birth of the Peruzzi cut, considered the precursor of both the modern brilliant cut and the Old Mine cut. For the first time, a diamond could truly shine at its full potential.
Characteristics of the Peruzzi Cut
The Peruzzi cut is known for:
- 58 facets arranged to maximise light return
- a soft, harmonious shape typical of antique cuts
- impressive brilliance for its time
- proportions that are often irregular but deeply charming
- a distinctive vintage appearance
It’s a cut that carries history within it, making it irresistible to collectors and connoisseurs.
Why the Peruzzi Cut Is So Rare
The Peruzzi cut was already rare in the 17th century: few cutters had the skill to execute it.Today it is even more sought after because:
- it is extremely hard to find on the market
- it is almost always a stone over one carat
- it represents a true piece of jewellery history
- it has a unique shape, impossible to replicate with modern cuts: It is an experimental, non‑standardized cut: every Peruzzi is different. For lovers of antique diamonds, it is a true treasure.
A Magnificent Example: Vintage Earrings with Peruzzi Diamonds
Would you like to see a pair of vintage earrings (circa 1945) featuring a Peruzzi diamond of over one carat at the centre?👉 Click here.