Tag Archives: Choose

How To Choose The Perfect Diamond Ring Design

Posted on by

With millions of different designs of diamond rings available in the market, it is hard to choose the perfect design that would fit your lifestyle and preference. Here are some basic tips that can help you in your search.

1. Take note of your budget

Before setting your hungry sight on the perfect diamond ring, make sure first that you have the budget to purchase it. The amount that you are willing to spend will actually determine the range of products that you will choose from. Your budget will actually help you narrow down your options.

2. Look at different stores

Do not just go to one store. Window shop. Ask for prices and specifications. Don’t be shy to do this. A diamond ring is not something that you just buy on a whim (except of course if you are a Paris Hilton incarnate and you just have tons of money to spare!). Clerks in stores will understand this as they too will not be buying diamond rings without studying every aspect of it.

3. Look at the properties

Remember too that in buying diamonds, you don’t just look at the designs but also the properties like the clarity, the carat, the color and the cut. This will largely determine the price of the diamond that you will be buying. Often, stores will have some sort of record of the properties of each diamond ring that they have on display. Ask the clerk about this.

To give you a rundown of the properties, here they are. Clarity refers to the clearness of the gemstone. This will include the imperfections, the haziness as well as the brilliance. The color as the name suggests refers to the color. Some diamonds are yellowish in color. These are the less expensive ones. The carat refers to the size and the weight of the diamond while the cut refers to the way the diamond is cut to enhance its brilliance. Popular choices are the princess cut and the emerald cut.

4. Try it on.

Never be shy to try as many as you can. There are no rules against trying diamond rings in the store. Sometimes, a diamond ring may seem pretty under the display case but when you try it on, the design does not fit the overall look of your hands. Before buying, make sure that you have tried on at least a dozen different designs.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on Diamond Rings & other useful information, please visit http://diamond-ring.articlekeep.com

How to Choose a Quality Diamond Ring and Diamond Jewelry

Posted on by

You are about to make a very important decision. You are going to buy a diamond. Whether it is an engagement ring to start a new life with someone special or a pair of earrings to signify twenty five years together, a diamond is something special. You want make sure you are getting the best quality diamond for the money you are spending. So, how do you know you are not wasting your money? Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping for that diamond ring.

The very first thing you are going to want to look at is your budget. In years past, the rule of thumb was that you spend two months salary on a diamond ring. However, that rule generally no longer applies. Today, with people living together before the question is asked, it is much more a question of how much your budget will handle.

After you know the price range you are looking for and can afford, you can then move on to the four “Cs” of diamonds. Color, cut, clarity and carat weight. Let’s take a look at the first one.

Color is the overall color of the stone. Traditionally, diamonds will rage from colorless to yellow. The less color in the stone, the more desirable it is. This typically has a relationship to the purity of the gem, although some people prefer the yellowish tint to a diamond stone. I personally think the yellowish tint makes it look old and not as clean as it should be.

Cut is very important to how the diamond will shine. If it is well cut, it will capture all available light and reflect it back to the height of its potential. If the diamond is cut too shallow, it will not gather light. If it is cut too deep, it will take light and not reflect it back. There are various different kinds of cuts, and a knowledgeable jeweler should be able to explain this to you as well as show you the same piece in different cuts so you can see the difference for yourself.

Clarity refers to how flawless the stone is. Diamonds that are flawless are going to be very rare and, therefore, very expensive. Usually, you can get more bang for your buck if you go down a couple of points on this category and get either a near flawless stone or one that has no visible incursions to the naked eye. Of course, the more visible the flaws, the less expensive the diamond. When you exmaine the gem with the naked eye, you should not be able to see “scars” or blemishes within the stone. If you can see scars but only when wearing a jeweler’s “loop” (the magnifying monacle microscope that any quality jeweler has on hand, which you can ask to borrow to examine a stone), then it is probably worthy of your consideration.

The last of the four Cs is carat. This is how big the diamond is. It is worth mentioning that the larger stones are more rare and are more expensive. Because of this, you can get the same amount of total carat weight for less money. As an example, two half-carat stones are less expensive than a single full carat ring.

When shopping for the perfect diamond ring, the setting will also come into play, as well as what type of metal the ring is made of. Gold is traditionally the metal of engagement and wedding rings, but silver; white gold and platinum have started to become more popular in recent years as well. This is more a matter of personal taste than anything else, although you want a quality setting.

One more thing to look for when shopping for a quality diamond ring – a quality jeweler. They will help you decide what your budget should be and show you a wide range of what you can afford. They will be able to tell you more on the four Cs, show you a variety of settings and help you through the buying process so you are comfortable with your purchase. Don’t be afraid to ask the jeweler to borrow his “loop” for a minute so you can get a close view of the diamond you are considering.

Jon is a computer engineer and long-term world traveler who maintains many websites to pass along his knowledge and findings. You can read more about diamond rings and diamond jewelry at his web site at http://www.diamond-jewelry-ring.com/

How to Choose the Perfect Diamond Ring

Posted on by

A diamond ring is an investment, and like any type of investment, you need to know what you are looking for so that you do not get taken to the cleaners in the process. Like anything else, diamonds come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, as well as a wide variety of prices. For the most part, you get what you pay for, but you should do your research so that you fully understand what you are looking at when you are making a purchase decision.

From a historical standpoint, the concept of an engagement started off as a purely religious ceremony during the thirteenth century where it was pronounced that marriages were to be publicized in churches by the priests so that well-founded hindrances, if any, could be made known. The diamond engagement ring has emerged as the universal symbol of love and commitment between two people.

Men that used diamond engagement rings to ask for a woman’s hand in marriage were looked upon with respect and envy. Diamond rings are affiliated with diamond solitaire engagement rings. Engagement rings can have beautiful designs, and at the same time they are just as attractive in nature when compared to diamond rings. Typically, the engagement ring has diamonds and the wedding band does not, but that is not a hard set rule, as many women have diamonds in both the engagement ring as well as the wedding ring.

The size and quality of a diamond is measured by one criterion known as a carat. A carat is exactly 200 milligrams, but a diamond ring or piece of diamond jewelry with a full carat diamond of quality is going to be expensive. There are the Four Cs involved with defining the quality (and ultimately the price) of a particular diamond, besides carat, are clarity, color, and cut. The carat of your diamond refers to its weight – simply put, the larger the diamond, the more valuable it becomes. Choose a carat value that appeals most to you. While a large diamond may be more valuable than a smaller one, the most important factor is how valuable it is to you.

One of the most beautiful pieces of jewelry you can own, diamond earrings are also very versatile. To get an idea of the different styles and prices that are available in diamond stud earrings it is more convenient to view them online before shopping around at local jewelry stores. One of the most beautiful pieces of jewelry you can own is a pair of diamond stud earrings.

A diamond stud earring is made up of just one perfectly cut diamond, set in fine gold or silver. Only diamonds can cut other diamonds. The diamond may have the perfect clarity and color, but its beauty can still be negatively affected if the cut is not properly made.

The informed consumer has done their research and know what they are looking for, as well as having a good ballpark idea of what a particular diamond will price at. Don’t be afraid to ask the jewelry to borrow his “loop” which is the small magnifying glass that quality jewelers will invariably have ready, where you can get a close-up view of a diamond piece of jewelry to get a clearer picture of the quality of the diamond.

Jon is a computer engineer who maintains web sites on a variety of topics based on his knowledge and experience. You can read more about diamond rings and diamond jewelry at his web site at Quality Diamond Rings and Jewelry.

How to Choose a Right Diamond and Engagement Ring?

Posted on by

Diamond

Diamond is a crystalline form of carbon.Its rarity makes it extremely valuable and precious. The combination of the 4Cs, namely Cut, Clarity, Carat and Colour, determines the value of a particular diamond.

Cut

While nature determines a diamond’s clarity, carat weight and colour, the hand of a master craftsman is necessary to release its fire, sparkle and beauty. When a diamond is cut to good proportions, light will reflect from one mirror-

like facet to another and disperse through the top of the stone, resulting in a display of brilliance and fire.

Diamonds that are cut too deep or too shallow lose light that spills through the side or bottom. As a result, poorly cut stones will be less brilliant and beautiful and certainly less valuable. A well cut or faceted diamond, regardless of

its shape, scintillates with fire and light, offering the greatest brilliance.

Ideal Cut Diamond

Every angle, proportion, and facet in a cut diamond contributes to its light reflection, so variations in any or all of them have a definite effect on the beauty of the diamond. An Ideal Cut round brilliant diamond is one which is cut to

an exact mathematical proportions and angles, to create a diamond of irresistible beauty.

Super Ideal Cut Diamond

Masterly craftsmen continuously strive to obtain the most ideal cut to release the maximum brilliance and fire from a diamond. The Super Ideal Cut, with the following three qualities surpasses the Ideal Cut in creating a diamond of

unequalled magnificence.

Super Ideal Cut Diamond

Perfect Cut Proportion

Super ideal cut proportion is similar to the ideal cut proportion, except in the extra 1% on the table length and the depth.

Perfect Symmetry

Perfect Symmetry refers to the identical and exact size and angle placement of each facet. Only with this quality, can the diamond release an even radiance. Without perfect symmetry, the facets cannot reflect the same level of

brightness, which reduces the diamond’s brilliance.

Perfect Polish

Polish refers to the finishing of a diamond. The surface of a perfectly polished diamond is flat and smooth, allowing light to reflect evenly through every facet.

Super Ideal Cut Diamond

When a diamond meets all of the above three criteria, 8 perfect arrows and 8 perfect hearts can be observed with a special scope. These are significant proofs of a super ideal cut diamond.

Clarity

The greater a diamond’s clarity, the more brilliant, valuable and rare it is. Virtually all diamonds contain identifying characteristics, yet many are invisible to the naked eye. Under the scrutiny of a jeweller’s 10X magnifier, natural

phenomena called inclusions may be seen. These are nature’s birthmarks.

The number, colour, type, size and position of the birthmarks affect a diamond’s value. Major inclusions can interfere with the path of light that travels through a diamond, diminishing its brilliance and sparkle and therefore its value.

Carat

Carat is the measurement of a diamond’s weight.

One carat is equal to 0.2 gram or 100 points. Because large diamonds are found relatively infrequently in nature, diamonds’ worth go up almost exponentially with their weight.

Colour

Diamonds can be classified into “colourless diamonds” and “fancy coloured diamonds”. Colourless diamonds are graded by colour, starting at D and continuing through the alphabet. Truly colourless stones, graded D, are treasured

for their rarity and value, and are highest in quality. Fancy coloured diamonds in well defined colours that include red, pink, blue, green and canary yellow are particularly rare and very highly priced.

Shape

Diamonds are cut in many fancy shapes. As the shape and distribution of inclusions vary with each raw stone, diamonds are cut into different shapes in order to avoid flaws and to minimize the wastage. People often choose

different shapes according to their own preferences. The following are the most popular shapes in the market:

Round Brilliant

The round brilliant cut diamond is by far the most popular shape, and accounts for about 3 out of 4 diamonds purchased today. It is designed to produce the greatest brilliance and reflection of light.

Princess

Princess cut is the second most popular shape on the market. Its table appears as a square-like rectangular shape. The pavilion of princess shape is cut according to that of the round brilliant, which increases the brilliance of the

diamond but also increases the use of materials.

Oval

The Oval shape is an extension of round brilliant, it looks larger than its actual size because of the elongated shape. Rings set with oval diamonds are suitable for ladies with small hands or shorter fingers.

Heart

Heart shape is a symbol of romance. It bears some similarity to the pear shape. To avoid significant inclusions, the cutter often prefers cutting the heart shape to the pear shape. This shape is seen frequently in pendants, but is suitable

for most any purpose.

Emerald

The Emerald cut is not a brilliant cut, but is called a step cut. Step cuts are comprised of larger facets, which act like mirrors. Because of the angle, size and shape of the facets, the emerald cut shows less brilliance and fire than the

brilliant cut diamonds. However, the emerald cut stone reveals a classic and aristocratic elegance and beauty not seen in other cuts. Because of the open and large nature of the facets, it is highly recommended that you consider

staying at higher colour and clarity grades.

Marquise

An elongated shape with 2 pointed ends just like the eye of a horse. This special shape is especially suitable for people with unique style.

Pear

Pear shape combines the best of oval and marquise but the appearance is much softer. Pear shaped diamond ring can accentuate long and slender fingers. It is also beautiful for setting pendants and earrings.

Over 30 years on Fine Jewelry and diamond industry and worked for various multi-national and listed Jewelry retailers in Asia Pacific such as Bridal one, Chow Sang Sang, Wedding grown, BelleDiamond, Emphasis and Duo.

Why Choose Black Diamond Wedding Rings?

Posted on by

While diamonds are traditionally presented in the western world in round (circular) cut, diamonds are also available in dozens of other cuts like pear, heart, marquise, oval, princess and even in a steep triangular cut known as “Trillion”. When it comes to the color of a diamond, though, very few people know that there is a whole world out there apart from the traditional clear, “colorless” diamond (no diamond is truly colorless, but they often appear that way). Differences in the quantities of atoms that a diamond contains along with the amount of light it absorbs (think complicated earth sciences) gives consumers a variety of different colors to choose from when picking one.

A diamond’s colors can range all over the spectrum: blue, green, olive, yellow, brown, orange, red, pink, purple, and even black. Traditionally known as a grading system for ski courses, black diamonds have had quite a large resurgence in the gem world recently, as jewelry companies have become more apt to offer a large variety of jewelry featuring the darker stone. Most jewelry companies now offer the black stone as an edgier choice to the traditional “colorless” diamond. Pairing a black diamond alongside “colorless” diamonds can give jewelry a stunning depth and contrast.

Black diamond wedding rings are beginning to catch on with couples looking for something a bit different for their nuptials. For a women’s ring, black diamonds are usually paired with smaller “colorless” diamonds in a traditional wedding ring layout that can either choose to show off a large black diamond in the center, or mix smaller darker diamonds in with the “colorless ones”. The male wedding bands typically feature small black diamonds inserted into the traditional wedding band which can either be silver, black, or mixed.

Those looking for something new for their next ring purchase might want to check out black or colored diamonds. Not only do they give a new dimension to traditional jewelry, but they also look just as beautiful and elegant as their colorless counterparts.

Author Kimberly Green had matching wedding bands made of black diamonds and is very pleased with the craftsmanship.

Why Choose An Emerald Cut Ring As An Engagement Ring

Posted on by

After that overwhelming marriage proposal, it’s now time to start with the tedious task of wedding preparation. One of major considerations—before and during the wedding—is choosing for an engagement ring.

Aside from the usual round or heart-shaped diamond rings, one of the most preferred cuts used in engagement rings is the emerald cut. Categorized as one of diamond’s valuable “fancy cuts,’ emerald cut engagement ring are becoming more and more popular choice for engagement rings because they look quite sophisticated.

Technically, emerald cut diamond engagement rings can either be square or rectangular. It also has cut corners, thus, resembling a box when you from above. Also known as “step cut” for having facets that resemble stair steps, emerald cut diamond engagement rings has fewer facets compared to the round cuts.

If you are not into glittery, sparkling rings, choose emerald cut diamond as engagement ring because it only has 25 facets compared to 58 facets of the usual round shaped-diamonds. Or if you want an engagement ring that looks big as much as possible, try emerald cut diamond engagement ring because it greatly enhances the appearance of the stone by having facets arranged in rectangular steps or rows above and below the girdle that creates the illusion of a large and perfect stone.

Your guide to the ultimate emerald cut diamond engagement ring shopping

Exuding an air of class and elegance, elegant cut diamond engagement rings are worn by most sophisticated couples today.

1. The first major consideration in buying emerald cut diamond engagement ring is a woman’s personal preference and lifestyle. If the woman is not into flashy and brilliant diamonds, then this cut is perfect for her because it is simple yet elegant. Today, more and more women prefer the emerald cut for their engagement ring because it is unique and elegant.

2. When choosing for an emerald cut diamond engagement ring, carefully select a diamond with superb clarity and color. Take note of the possible imperfections in the diamond because these can be magnified and may affect the overall appearance of the ring. If possible, look for an emerald cut diamond engagement ring that is close to colorless.

3. Be familiar with the features of an emerald cut diamond engagement ring. Usually, these rings are rectangular or square with bezelled corners and step-cut facets and have a window-like transparency.

4. Since this cut is quite unusual for an engagement ring, emerald cut diamond engagement ring are not usually will not find a ready-made. You can ask for a custom-made that would fit perfectly on your finger.

5. After purchasing a high-priced emerald cut engagement ring, make sure that obtain an independent appraisal and gem lab report to indicate the stone’s worth.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on Diamond Rings & other useful information, please visit http://diamond-ring.articlekeep.com

Why Choose Certified Diamonds?

Posted on by

There comes a time when we meet the person with whom we want to share the rest of our lives, and we do our best to make sure that, apart from our love, they receive the engagement ring they deserve. Even if some women claim the contrary, a beautiful, diamond ring does matter.

If you have decided to purchase a diamond engagement ring, make sure it is accompanied by a diamond certificate. This document, which is prepared by a gem laboratory, contains vital information about the diamond. Once you have purchased certified diamonds, verify that the diamond certificate documents the color, clarity, cut and carat weight of the diamond. Many diamond certificates also contain details concerning the shape of the diamond, the polish, the symmetry, and a detailed sketch of the diamond.

One of the major advantages offered by certified diamonds is that you do not have to worry about the authenticity of the gem. Moreover, certified diamonds appraise for higher dollar values. Due to the certificate, you will be able to sell your diamond more easily and at fair market prices. As you can see, certified diamonds present numerous advantages.

When buying a diamond engagement ring, do not rush into a purchase decision. Make sure you understand what you are buying, and inspect the diamond carefully. Diamond certificates give you details about the diamond, and these must match the diamond. We advise you not to buy a diamond engagement ring from questionable establishments. Many stones resemble diamonds and you can easily end up buying your loved one a fake diamond.

An engagement ring represents one of the most expensive purchases a man makes in his lifetime, and it is a symbol of love and commitment. Thus, when making such an important purchase, it is best to buy a diamond with a certificate.

The ring you give your significant other is a sign of the love and dedication that you have for her. Therefore, the quality of the ring is of utmost importance. Remember that this ring is for a lifetime.

We have thousands of certified diamonds in different sizes, shapes, and colors. An engagement ring purchased from us will certainly make your future wife happy.

Diamond Necklaces or Diamond Rings – Which To Choose

Posted on by

 

When you are considering diamond gifts for someone close, you may wonder whether to choose diamond necklaces or diamond rings. The choice that you make depends upon the statement that you want to make. While diamond necklaces say that you care, diamond rings are often used as a proposal of marriage. Being aware of the meaning behind diamonds has much to do with giving diamond gifts. 

 

Diamond necklaces usually consist of pendants. They can be given to anyone on your gift list. Pendants contain diamonds and, in some cases, other gems. They are worn on a gold necklace. There are many different styles when it comes to diamond necklaces. Giving diamond necklaces to someone does not constitute a promise of marriage. These necklaces are usually treasured by the owners and are often handed down to descending generations. Diamonds are a valuable gemstone and retain their value, if not gain in value. Unlike other gifts that are worth less once they are used, diamonds can even be worth more over a period of time, than when first purchased. This is why it is important to get first quality diamonds from a first class jeweler. 

 

While diamond necklaces can be a gift for anyone, the same is not true when it comes to diamond rings. Unless the couple is married, diamond rings are usually indicative of a marriage proposal. If a man gives a woman a diamond ring, it usually means that he wants to get married. The exception is if the couple is already married. If the couple is already married, diamond rings have the same significance as diamond necklaces. 

 

Like diamond necklaces, diamond rings are set in precious metals. Good diamonds are set in 18 karat gold or platinum. White gold is often used today by fine jewelers as this gold is preferred over yellow gold today.  White gold resembles platinum in appearance. It can be brushed or polished.  Diamond rings also often have other precious gems set in with the setting.

 

Diamond rings can also be purchased for men. Men will wear diamond rings as wedding bands and as pinky finger rings. While you do not have to know a size to buy a diamond necklace, you do have to have a rough size estimate when you are buying a diamond ring. A good jeweler will be able to size the ring for you. It should slip comfortably on the hand of the wearer and should not be too loose so that it falls off. In some cases, the recipient can get the ring sized at a local jeweler so that it fits right. It is often helpful to have a ring size before you buy diamond rings. 

 

Both diamond rings and diamond necklaces make excellent gifts for someone special in your life. You should be sure of the quality of the diamond and deal with a jeweler that has been in business for a while. Be sure that the diamond rings and diamond necklaces are top quality and make the statement that you want to make to the person to whom you are giving the gift. 

Diamond necklaces make an ideal gift for anyone special. Diamond rings can often mean a promise of marriage. You can find out more about fine jewelry by going to Hancocks Jewellers.

Why Choose Emerald Cut Diamonds?

Posted on by

Loose diamonds come in a wide variety of cuts, both rounded and rectangular; emerald cut diamonds are an example of the latter.

Round Brilliant or Step?

Loose diamonds for sale may be cut in a round or oval fashion, or in a square or rectangular manner. Each type of cut has its advantages and appeal.

First of all, it’s helpful to understand that diamonds have certain qualities by which they are judged; primary qualities are brilliance/fire, and clarity. Round brilliant cuts such as oval diamonds are cut in order to display the gem’s brilliance and fire.

Emerald cut diamonds are not nearly as brilliant as their round and oval counterparts. Such a cut has traditionally been used for emeralds, hence the name; it is the most common of the square/rectangular step cuts (so-called because of its resemblance to stairs). What these diamonds lack in brilliance however, they make up for in clarity. Looking into an emerald cut diamond is like peering into pure, glacier-water ice; the full depth of the stone is clearly visible.

How Does Cut Affect Value?

This is a difficult question, and highly subjective. Currently, the preference among buyers of diamond jewelry is for brilliant cuts, which are generally rounded or oval. Because of this, rectangular step-cut diamonds may have less monetary value.

On the other hand, because of the nature of the cut that accentuates the gem’s clarity, such stones must necessarily be flawless; with emerald cut diamonds, the slightest imperfections would be clearly seen. Generally, the investor or collector is much better off spending the extra money for high quality gems when buying emerald cut diamonds.

Rectilinear cuts were also quite popular during the Art Deco period from 1920 to the late 1940s. Many antique settings from that time have step-cut gems. As a result, the industry is seeing a growing demand for emerald cut diamonds and similar gems for reproductions and restorations of antique diamond jewelry.

Famous Emerald Cut Diamond Rings

One of the most famous emerald cut diamonds is set in a ring worn by Lady Camilla Bowles, who eventually married Prince Charles Windsor of Great Britain.

American “royalty” also apparently has developed a taste for such diamonds; this cut was used for the engagement ring worn by the third Mrs. Donald Trump. Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton also wear such rings.

If this preference by the rich and famous is any indication, it seems that the popularity of emerald cut diamonds will continue to increase, adding to their value as a collector gem and an investment vehicle over time.

Jonathon Blocker specializes in diamond jewelry, oval diamonds, and emerald cut diamonds. He is a consultant for GemFind.com, a trusted name in the jewelry industry since 1999.