Taylor Swift’s Engagement Ring: Vintage character with a contemporary attitude

When Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement, the ring stood out for its balance of eras. It pairs an old mine-cut diamond with a clean, modern presentation. The result feels considered and personal rather than grandstanding.

The diamond cut: why old mine matters

Old mine-cut diamonds were hand-cut in the 18th and 19th centuries. Their bold, chunky facets create a gentle, candlelit glow, rather than the high scintillation seen in modern brilliant cuts. The shape is typically squarish with rounded corners, a high crown, a smaller table, and sometimes an open culet. Most have 58 facets. Many fans will notice that five plus eight equals thirteen, which is a quiet nod to Taylor’s favorite number.

The setting: modern lines that respect the stone

From the descriptions and photos, the center diamond sits along the finger in a sleek, east-west orientation. The accents are set into the band so the ring catches light from every angle without competing with the center stone. This is a contemporary way to showcase an antique cut. The diamond supplies history and warmth. The architecture of the ring supplies clarity and restraint.

Two worlds in one design

Taylor Swift is a global music icon. Travis Kelce is a leader in American football. The ring meets in the middle. Vintage soul and modern structure. Distinct traditions joined with a shared purpose.

How this relates to my recent work

In my studio, I often find myself caught in the same conversation between the old and the new. Two recent pieces show the approach:

Both designs keep the metalwork discreet, allowing the stones to take centre stage. The elongated cushion features a classic, softly squared profile reminiscent of antique cushions and old mine cuts. The marquise side stones add lift and motion without clutter. Clean prongs, a comfortable band, and careful proportion place the emphasis where it belongs.

Considering an old mine cut today

If you are drawn to Taylor’s ring, a few practical notes will help you make an informed choice.

• Expect personality. Old mine cuts were made by hand. Symmetry varies. Focus on overall harmony rather than lab precision.
• Look for a lively crown. A higher crown and smaller table give that romantic glow people love in antique stones.
• Be flexible on color. The facet pattern and depth often suit warmer tones beautifully, especially in yellow or rose gold. Platinum can work too if you prefer a more fabulous palette.
• Keep the setting honest. Integrated accents, slim prongs, and a balanced profile let the old mine cut remain the hero.
• Lab-grown is an option.  And it is a wonderful one.  With a lab-grown diamond, you could mirror this old mine cut or go for a more brilliant modern cut, but for far less than you’d pay for a mined, mine-cut diamond.
• They are not everyone’s cup of tea. The modern brilliant cut gained popularity over the old mined style because it’s simply more brilliant.  Looking at Taylor Swift’s ring… in the photo, it seems to be dull at some angles.  It’s unlikely this is a fault in the stone, it’s just the old mined cut diamonds don’t sparkle as much.  If maximum sparkle is your thing… then old mined is not for you.

The appeal of Taylor’s ring is not volume. It is intention. A historical stone in a modern frame. If that direction resonates with you, we can source an antique or antique-style cushion and create a setting that feels current, wearable, and uniquely yours.