Why Old Mine Cut Diamonds Make the Perfect Vintage-Inspired Engagement Ring

Why Old Mine Cut Diamonds Make the Perfect Vintage-Inspired Engagement Ring

by | Aug 29, 2025 | Jewellery Information, Proposing

Why Old Mine Cut Diamonds Make the Perfect Vintage-Inspired Engagement Ring

 

In my last social media post, we looked at Taylor Swift’s engagement ring and how it’s already inspiring couples everywhere to think a little differently about their own ring choices. One detail that really caught people’s attention was the use of an antique-style diamond cut. It’s sparked so much conversation around “old mine cut diamonds” — and for good reason.

If you’re someone who wants an engagement ring that feels unique, full of character, and steeped in romance, an old mine cut diamond could be exactly what you’re looking for.

So, what makes these diamonds so beautiful, and why are they such a perfect choice for a vintage-inspired engagement ring?

 

A Little History Behind Old Mine Cut Diamonds

 

Before modern technology, diamonds were cut by hand. From the 18th to the 19th century, skilled cutters shaped diamonds using simple tools, giving us what we now call the “old mine cut.”

Unlike today’s precision cuts, no two were exactly the same. Their faceting was designed to sparkle under candlelight, creating a soft, romantic glow rather than the razor-sharp brilliance we’re used to seeing from modern diamonds.

The result? Diamonds with a charm and individuality that still captivate us centuries later.

 

What Makes Old Mine Cut Diamonds So Beautiful

 

The magic of an old mine cut diamond is in its character. Here are just a few of the reasons couples fall in love with them:

Unique personality – Each stone is slightly different, with asymmetrical edges and chunky facets that make it one-of-a-kind.

Romantic sparkle – Instead of a dazzling “flash,” old mine cuts give off a warm, candlelit glow.

Sense of history – They carry with them the feeling of another time, making them perfect for those who love jewellery with a story.

In short: they’re not about perfection, they’re about individuality. And that’s exactly what makes them so meaningful for an engagement ring.

 

Why Choose an Old Mine Cut Engagement Ring

If you want your engagement ring to feel truly personal, an old mine cut is a beautiful way to stand apart from the crowd. It’s a choice that says you value uniqueness, history, and romance over mass-produced sparkle.

Pairing an old mine cut diamond with a vintage-inspired or bespoke design gives you something no one else will ever have, a ring that reflects your love story, your style, and your values.

 

Two Ways to Create Your Perfect Ring

There are two ways I can help you bring your vintage-inspired engagement ring to life:

Make Your Own Engagement Ring

If you’d love the unforgettable experience of designing and handcrafting your own engagement ring, my Bristol workshop is the perfect place to do it. You’ll work with me one-to-one, and together we’ll create your dream ring using an old mine cut diamond at its centre. Imagine being able to say, *“I made this.”

Bespoke Commission

If you’d prefer me to design and craft your ring for you, I’d be delighted to work with you on a bespoke commission. We can design a vintage-inspired engagement ring that perfectly reflects your style and tells your story, with an old mine cut diamond as its heart.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’d like to roll up your sleeves and make your own ring or you’d prefer me to design and create it for you, an old mine cut diamond is a timeless, meaningful choice for an engagement ring.

 

I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Get in touch with me here to begin your journey toward a ring as unique as your love story.

 

The Complete Guide to Guessing UK Ring Sizes (Plus What to Do When You’re Wrong)

The Complete Guide to Guessing UK Ring Sizes (Plus What to Do When You’re Wrong)

by | Aug 22, 2025 | All, Jewellery Information, Proposing

How to Crack the Ring Size Code (Without Going Full Detective Mode)

You’ve found your person, you’ve got the proposal speech memorised (sort of), and now you’re staring at ring size charts like they’re written in ancient hieroglyphics. Sound familiar?

Take a deep breath. Every year, thousands of perfectly sensible people find themselves Googling “average finger size UK” at 2am, and honestly? You’re in excellent company. The ring size mystery has baffled romantics for generations, but here’s the thing: it’s absolutely solvable.

As a Bristol based jeweller, I’ve learned that the perfect proposal isn’t about millimetre perfect sizing. It’s about the moment, the love, and yes, having a backup plan that doesn’t involve panic.

Why Ring Sizing Feels Like Rocket Science (It’s Not)

You want that movie moment where the ring slides on like it was made for them (which, technically, it was). However, here’s a little industry secret that might just save your sanity: even professionally fitted engagement rings often require resizing after the proposal.

In fact, it’s so common that most jewellers build it into their service. I offer one free resize because guessing someone’s ring size while keeping a massive secret can be quite stressful; it’s impressive if you nail it the first time, but there’s no shame if you need another go.

The proposal is about “will you marry me,” not “will this fit perfectly right now.”

UK Ring Sizes: The Numbers Game

Let’s talk averages, because everyone loves a good starting point:

For women: The UK’s most popular sizes are M, N, and O. Think of these as the “medium” of the ring world.

For men: Usually around Q, R, and S.

Quick translation for anyone who’s been down a US sizing rabbit hole:

  • UK M = US 6¼
  • UK N = US 6¾
  • UK O = US 7¼

Operation Ring Size: Your Stealth Mission Options

Time for some creative problem-solving. Here are the tried-and-tested methods that have helped countless partners become ring size detectives:

The Classic Ring Heist

If your partner already wears rings, you’ve hit the jackpot. “Borrow” a ring (noting which finger it’s worn on) and either:

  • Pop into a jeweller for professional measuring
  • Trace around the inside on paper (surprisingly accurate)
  • Use a free ring-sizing app like Gemporia or Hitched (technology is wonderful)

Recruit Your Inside Person

Every good mission needs an accomplice. A trusted friend, sibling, or parent can casually suggest “trying on rings for fun” or steer a conversation toward jewellery. Choose your agent wisely; you want someone who can keep secrets.

The Finger Comparison Method

Hold hands (romantic AND practical) and work out which of your fingers matches their ring finger size. Then you can confidently tell a jeweller, “Their ring finger is about the same as my middle finger.”

The Stealth String Operation

I can’t believe I had a client who did this, and correctly! The classic midnight measuring mission. While they’re asleep, gently wrap string or paper around their finger, mark the overlap, and measure against a sizing chart. Difficulty level: high. Success rate: surprisingly good. Risk of waking them up and having to explain why you’re approaching their hand with string: moderate.

When “Good Enough” Is Actually Perfect

Here’s some perspective: it’s better to have a surprise proposal with a slightly wrong sized ring than a perfectly fitted ring with zero surprise. Most couples prefer the magic moment over mathematical precision.

When clients aren’t certain, I typically make rings in average sizes (M/N/O territory) with resizing in mind. Modern engagement ring design accounts for this – we’re not monsters who expect you to guess perfectly first time.

Your Ring Options: Bespoke vs. Handmade

Now for the exciting bit of choosing your ring style. You’ve got two brilliant options here in North Bristol:

Option 1: Bespoke Engagement Ring (The Professional Touch)

From initial consultation through gemstone selection to educated size guessing, you’ll end up with a completely unique ring tailored to your partner’s style. Plus, that reassuring resize safety net.

Many clients love adding personal touches: meaningful engravings, heirloom stones, design elements that tell your story.

Option 2: Make Your Own Engagement Ring Workshop (The Ultimate Personal Touch)

Fancy crafting the ring yourself? Even if your DIY skills peak at assembling IKEA furniture, I’ll guide you through creating something extraordinary in my workshop. It’s hands-on, meaningful, and gives you the best proposal story ever: “I literally made this for you.”

Both options keep the surprise intact while creating something deeply personal. Because at the end of the day, shop bought is fine, but handmade (whether by me or by you) tells a story.

Location, Location, Location

Based in Bristol, Winterbourne, or anywhere in the South West? Come and visit the studio. I regularly work with couples throughout the region, and many travel from further afield for this special experience.

Your Ring Size Questions, Answered

What’s the average UK women’s ring size? M, N, or O. Think “middle of the road.”

What if I completely guess wrong? Join the club! It’s incredibly common, and most jewellers offer resizing. I include one free resize because life’s stressful enough without worrying about millimetres.

Can all rings be resized? Most can be adjusted easily. Rings with stones all around or with patterns can be trickier, but an experienced jeweller will design with resizing in mind.

Best ring sizing app? Gemporia and Hitched both offer free, reliable apps that work surprisingly well.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Numbers Steal Your Thunder

Ring sizing feels enormous when you’re planning a proposal, but; your partner is going to be thrilled regardless of whether it fits perfectly on day one. They’re saying yes to you, not to precise measurements.

Focus on the important stuff: the moment, the words, the future you’re building together. 

Ready to Make It Happen?

Still worried about getting everything perfect? Don’t be. Whether you want a bespoke ring crafted by professional hands or fancy the adventure of making it yourself, I’m here to guide you through every step, including making sure it fits like a dream.

The perfect proposal is waiting. Let’s make it happen.

Book a consultation today and let’s start planning your perfect ring and proposal story.

Jewellers bench & laser welder training and hire in Bristol

by | Nov 11, 2022 | All

Be inspired – learn a new skill

Jewellers bench hire by the hour in Bristol

Availability: 

most Thursdays 9-2

Tuesdays Term time 9-12

Cost £15 hour

 

Aimee Winstone studios offers 6 benches with basic bench tools as well as Seivert soldering equipment, polishing motor, barrel polisher, micromotors, rolling mills, wax carving heat pens, wax carving tools, setters ball vise, Saeyang hammer-head setting tool, planishing press, ring stretcher, G clamp, potentially a draw bench. Light box for photography and DSLR Canon camera, Wifi, tea (or every kind), coffee and squash. Plenty of parking.

 

I would need to ask if you have experience of all tools or if training will be needed. Full health and Safety precautions will need to be followed. There could be a possibility to buy sundries and metal.

 

I do enjoy talking about jewellery and ideas, these sessions will not include tuition. I will be carrying out my own commissions and stock at the same time. 

 

About me:

I have 2 small children and often dread I talk about them too much. I also have a dog called Apple who is now 13. I often listen to radio X or some podcasts in the workshop.

Over the last 20 years I have won 8 jewellery design awards or scholarships. I have worked as designer for retail companies and manufacturing businesses focusing on high end jewellery right through to mass produced collections. I also have some knowledge of CAD and laser engraving.

 

About Hillside Studios

Hillside Studios is a lovely rural studio located minutes from the Cribbs Causeway M5 junction, Bristol. This creative venue supports 13 craftspeople, including pottery, stone masonry and painting.

Accessibility

Hillside Studios is located on gravelled farmland with steps to each studio, unfortunately, some people with mobility problems may find difficulty navigating the area. For this reason, it has no step-free access available.

Transport

Car: Hillside Studios is located not far from Wild Place Zoo, Easter Compton, Bristol, having your own transport is the best way to get there. There is plenty of free parking on site.

Cycling: Hillside Studios is on the National Cycle Route 410.

Buses: This is a trickier option. You can catch the number 1 and 2 buses from Central Bristol to Catbrain Lane, Cribbs Causeway. Click here for timetable info. From the bus stop, it is then a 30-minute pedestrian route, part of this walk is along country roads without pavements.

Buses 625 and 924 offer a closer service to Hillside Studios.

 

Laser welder training / hire by 1h or 1/2h in Bristol

Availability: 

most Thursdays 9am-2pm

Tuesdays Term time 9am-12pm

Cost is £20 for 1/2h and £30 for full hour. Discounts considered for a full day.

 

Dado Laser welder training/hire in Bristol by either 1/2h or full hour. 

The Dado laser welds gold, platinum, steel, palladium, with ease. Silver is more difficult.

You will be able to secure jump rings, fix porosity, resize rings, re-claw and re-tip efficiently and with precision.

 

Hire time includes access to laser welder and workbench with basic bench tools.  This is intended for someone who has experience on a laser welder but who does not want to purchase the machine and wants access to one on demand. 

 

Training is 1 to 1 so you would receive training at exactly your pace.  Laser welder hire with training is £80 per hour.  This is designed for someone who is at any level of experience repairing or making jewellery but does not have experience with laser welders.  If you’ve never used a laser welder before, you must have 1h training on it,  and then you can hire as little as 1/2h on your own any time you want.

Restarting my jewellery workshops safely during Covid-19

Restarting my jewellery workshops safely during Covid-19

by | Jul 9, 2020 | All

As you can imagine, I’ve been busy planning how my jewellery workshops and private 1-1 tuition might work when I reopen. Back in early March, I was excited, busily moving to a larger studio so I could expand my workshop sessions. Only a week later I was forced to put all of my plans on hold, as well as everyone who had booked places on my wax carving workshops. I thank everyone who has been patiently waiting.

I have adapted how we work in the workshop to try and make our learning environment as safe and enjoyable as possible during the Coronavirus pandemic. 

Below I outline some of the key measures to help prevent the spread of the virus while observing government guidelines, please read through them all. If you have any questions or concerns please email me on jewellery@aimeewinstone.com

  • Classes have currently been limited to 3 people based on current government guidelines. If guidelines change I may increase class numbers.
  • 1+ Metre distancing is to be observed between students at all times.
  • Two people will sit side by side on the larger bench rather than 4 people sharing the one table. There will be a perspex screen between each pair of students, although if 2 people are from the same household that screen can be removed. There will be a separate bench for a 3rd person.
  • My bench will be placed with an acrylic screen across the back so you can watch demonstrations without worrying about distancing. There will also be a screen to separate 2 people watching demonstrations at one time.
  • Face masks must be worn when students are away from their benches. I will wear a face shield rather than a face mask to make it easier for people to understand me when I am teaching.
  • There are gloves which you are able to use if you wish. You will be asked to remove any PPE deemed to be dangerous while using some equipment in the workshop (for example wearing gloves on the polishing motor), you must remove it or I cannot let you continue on that task due to safety risks.
  • I have disposable aprons available to use rather than the usual cotton aprons.
  • Please use the hand sanitiser on entering the workshop and throughout the session, this will be provided. There is also a sink with hand wash to wash your hands thoroughly. Hand washing will be very much enforced in the workshop.
  • The windows and doors will be open to allow for maximum ventilation.
  • Please bring your own drinks and snacks during this time to reduce any germs spreading.
  • All benches will have their own toolboxes, however, if you have your own tools I would appreciate it if you brought them with you. Tools will be cleaned before and after each workshop.
  • Studio worksurfaces, door handles, light switches will be cleaned before and after each class.
  • There will be tools that we have to share, all these must be wiped down after you use them so they are ready for the next student – there will be wipes, disinfectant and paper towel stationed all around the workshop to clean shared tools.
  • Try to stay at your bench as much as possible. If you need to move around the workshop to use a tool, let your fellow students know to help us all social distance.
  • Record keeping: As is required, I will be keeping a record of workshop attendees in case that information is needed for COVID-19 track and tracing. Of course, my records will be kept confidential and safe as always.
  • Should you feel unwell with Coronavirus symptoms please do not attend your booked class, I will book you in for an alternative workshop date. I don’t want anybody to come along who is suffering symptoms of Coronavirus, but I ask that you also respect this doesn’t mean you should cancel a class for another reason. I am trying to accommodate everybody in very difficult times, keep everybody safe, and keep the business afloat.
  • If another lockdown comes into force, I will close immediately and deal with classes and refunds for classes if and when it happens.
  • I’ll do my best to follow safety guidelines to minimise any risk to any visitors, however, this isn’t a guarantee, the virus is very much a risk to some more than others, I have invested in more tools and rearranged the workshop to the best of my ability.
  • Ultimately I still want my workshops to be fun, relaxed and as social as possible. We all need some time out!
Hillside Studios Open Weekend 29-30 September 18

Hillside Studios Open Weekend 29-30 September 18

by | Sep 11, 2018 | All

Come and visit Hillside Studios Open Weekend on the 29-30th September 18

Hillside Studios

Hello,

I would love to show you all my workshop space and explain what I do. I have been making myself at home at Hillside Studios since January and it has been the best decision I’ve made.

A lot has changed. Mostly it has allowed me to start teaching jewellery making but it has also been a huge motivation to be around like-minded people whilst also getting away from the dishes and other household chores you think I’ll just get that out of the way quick. Working from home can be hard.

If you would like to come and visit over this weekend to support all of us at Hillside Studios it would be great to see you.
I will have jewellery making experience gift vouchers to sell, perfect for Christmas (I can’t believe I’ve used the C word in September! sorry) as well as a selection of silver jewellery at discounted prices!!.

Make Your Own Jewellery Weekend Special

During the weekend I am offering a special price to make your very own jewellery during your visit.

For up to date info on these mini-workshops please look on the Facebook Event

Will I see you there? RSVP on my Facebook event

Liz Vidal Ceramics will also be offering small workshops throughout the weekend.

There will be lots of original artwork for sale from these established local artists.
Come and book your workshops for the winter for pottery, jewellery and printmaking.
Rosie Musgrave -Stone,
Linen Prints Jacqui Watkins – Printmaking,
Liz Vidal Ceramics – Ceramics,
Aimee Winstone Jewellery – Jewellery
Ruth Molloy – Steel and Painting
Bridget Birse – Garden Design
Jo Whiteland – Batik
Amy Spencer – Writer

Find Hillside Studios, 10 mins from Cribbs Causeway

Hillside Studios
Hillside
Berwick Lane
Compton Greenfield
BS35 5RU

I hope to see you there.