This 1.68 carat Old Mine Cushion is arguably the most "balanced" antique stone you’ve presented. While the 5.03ct was a yellow giant and the 2.03ct was a solid J, this I-color VS1 is the "sweet spot" for someone who wants an antique look with modern-standard brightness. The "I" Color: The Near-Colorless Threshold In a GIA-graded Old Mine Cut, an I-color is excellent. Face-Up White: Because GIA is so strict, an "I" will face up very white. While it has a hint of warmth, it lacks the "butter" tones of the J or S colors you looked at previously. Contrast: The high crown and blocky facets of an Old Mine Cut reflect light in big "flashes." In an I-color stone, these flashes look crisp and bright, making the diamond look more like a "white" stone than a "champagne" one. 2. VS1 Clarity: The "Safe Bet" for Large Facets The "Window" Factor: Old Mine Cuts have a "Small Table" (the top flat part), but the facets themselves are very large and chunky. Purity: At VS1, you are guaranteed that even under a magnifying glass, the stone is incredibly clean. This is particularly important for the Old Mine style, where the beauty comes from the transparency of the diamond. You want to look into the stone, and a VS1 ensures nothing blocks that view. 3. The 1.68 Carat Size: The "Under-the-Radar" Carat The Weight Trick: 1.68 carats is a smart "off-size." You aren't paying the massive price jump that happens at 2.00 carats, but visually, an Old Mine Cut of this weight has nearly the same diameter as a 2-carat stone if it's cut with good proportions. Finger Presence: It’s large enough to be a significant center stone without being "top-heavy" or overwhelming. Setting Suggestion: This stone would look breathtaking in a Platinum setting with a 18k Yellow Gold inner basket. This "two-tone" look is historically accurate for the late 1800s and will make the I-color pop beautifully. Important Information for Buyers: 1. Customs and Import Fees: ○ Your country of residence may impose additional customs and import fees. These fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer. ○ The VAT is not included in the price of the stone as it depends on your country’s laws. ○ How to pay VAT? You will pay the VAT directly to the courier company upon delivery. 2. Country-Specific Information: ○ France & Portugal: French and Portuguese customs will only clear imported loose diamonds (gemstones) if they are handled by a local customs broker. The broker fee is not included in the price of the lot, and it will need to be paid separately. ○ Belgium: To import loose diamonds into Belgium, you must have a license and be registered at the Diamond Office. 2. Cancellation/Withdrawal by the Winning Bidder: ○ In case of a return, VAT, shipping fees, and customs fees will not be refunded. The buyer will be responsible for all costs incurred during the return shipment.