Sunday, September 19, 2010

Fine Diamond Jewelry: Tips On Where You Could Purchase Diamonds

In buying fine diamond jewelry, not only do you have to consider the four C's but also the place where you intend to make your purchase. Diamonds whether loose or embedded in jewelry are truly expensive. This is why they are probably among the most important purchases that you will make in your life. By taking these things into consideration, you should be vigilant about the store where you will buy these items so that you could enjoy them for the years to come.

There are different means in order for you to acquire diamonds. The first thing that you could do is to go online and search for online jewelry shops that offer fine diamond jewelry. Buying online is a practical means to perform the task of looking for prospective diamond jewelry items that are inexpensive but high in quality without getting exhausted. In addition, online jewelry shops hold all sorts of diamond jewelry products from different parts of the world which gives you more room for choices.

One advantage of purchasing from online jewelry stores is that you could time and energy--with just a click of your finger, even while you're at home or in the office, you could instantly make your purchases from a whole range of selections and you also engage in online jewelry auctions that are usually run by professional jewelers. Similarly, online jewelry stores offer competitively priced diamonds and jewelry pieces, whether round brilliant or any form of cut you desire, because they do not have price markups since they don't have physical stores to run that often incur overhead expenses such as electricity bills and employee salaries among others. The main disadvantage with online shopping however could be associated to the abundance of jewelry choices which often weaken the ability of consumers to rationally assess the quality and price the jewelry pieces. Nevertheless, since the internet permits the operation of anonymous individuals and businesses, there are many jewelry scammers who are waiting to pounce on naive jewelry buyers who make the wrong move.

If you would like to secure your purchase, why not try visiting the local jewelry shops within your area? The good thing about this option is that you could personally assess the quality and value of the round brilliant diamonds or any jewelry you are to purchase. You could also ask questions that could be answered by professional jewelers, which in turn would assist you in finalizing your purchasing decisions. Major drawbacks about this option however, lies on the prices of their products; as they have overhead expenses to cover, physical jewelry stores have the tendency to place additional markups on their product prices, which is why jewelry pieces from these stores could be a bit expensive, and they have limited.

Meanwhile, if your are searching for inexpensive pieces, rare jewelry like oval diamonds from specific periods, or used diamonds, you may try your hands on specialty stores, thrift shops as well as pawnshops. If you would consider this option, make sure that you really are knowledgeable about diamonds to make appropriate purchases. You would also need a lot of patience and perseverance as most of the time these shops do not hold highly valuable items that you are looking for. But, if you're truly lucky, you can purchase rare finds that you could include in your collections, though this instance rarely occurs.

When you decide to purchase fine diamond jewelry for yourself or for your loved one, it is highly suggested that you shop around and make comparisons first prior to making your actual purchase. If you're looking at buying online, be sure to do some research about the stores where you wish to buy to make sure if they are legitimate or not; go over the reputation of these online jewelry shops and study their return and refund policies. In terms of local jewelry stores, do not attempt to purchase immediately from the first shop you have visited, rather take the time to go around several stores and make comparisons about their prices, services and product quality. If you're not familiar with the jewelry stores in your area, ask for the recommendations of your friends and family so that you could choose the right jewelry that would be worthy of your expenses.

If you intend to buy fine diamond jewelry, regardless if it has oval diamonds or round brilliant sparklers, it pays to go over your store options to ultimately make the right purchase. Basically, you have two options when it comes to purchasing diamonds. First, you could go online, which is a good option to save time, money and energy, and second, you could visit your local jewelry stores, where you could personally appraise the jewelry you would like to purchase.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Women And Jewelry: The Relation Between Women And Fine Jewelry Pieces

Fine jewelry has played important roles that has been well document in the pages of history. From the ancient times, humans have been wearing jewelry pieces to accentuate their bodies. Starting from the old stone age approximately 25,000 years ago, both men and women collected different kinds of items, drilled holes in them and wore them for varying reasons. However, women are more adept to wear jewelry pieces because of the many purposes they hold.

In a recent survey spearheaded by one lifestyle magazine, it was found out that out 0f 100 female respondents 95 spends more time shopping for fine jewelry compared to other accessories. This study, though not extensive, profoundly speaks of how much women admire jewelry. Probably by now you are asking: "what is it with jewelry that women really love?- Accordingly, many women appreciate jewelry for a variety of reasons.

To begin with, all kinds of jewelry pieces are additives that reinforce the real context of dressing as well as artistic display. They stand as important components of fashion and style as they provide a glint of lavishness to the wardrobes worn by women. Hair dresses adorned with loose diamonds could make the hair glimmer, brooches and pins apparently make a dull looking office suit into a livelier outfit. Bracelets, rings, earring, necklaces and other articles worn on different parts of the body surely define those parts where they are placed.

Aside from accessorizing, jewelry pieces are also used to help define the social status of women in the society. Back in the ancient times they were determining factors of what positions women hold in the community--with slaves using beads and upper echelons using metallic jewelry pieces accented with gemstones such as loose diamonds. Although such purpose may not be as intense today compared from the past, it cannot be discounted that is still apparently a practice that many rich and famous people uphold.

Women also appreciate fine jewelry items because of their associated symbolism and spiritual and health value. Women from India uses the so-called "tika- which appears like a chandelier earring though it is hooked at the end of the hair with the pendant dangling at the exact center of the forehead to symbolize spiritual preservation. The nose ring is closely related to heightened sexual reflexes, while necklaces, since they are closely worn to the heart, are helpful in working on emotions, attracting or strengthening love. Charm bracelets are utilized to harness luck, while bangles are signs of creativity and the sun's potent energy. Gemstones of all sorts have been used to cure different health conditions with diamonds being used to induce clarity and jade to enhance relaxation among others.

Of course, jewelry pieces profess and communicate different stories, which is why many women appreciate them. They tell stories of love, friendship, celebration, welcoming or personal epiphany. They speak of relationships with spouses as seen from the popularity of wedding and engagement rings adorned with round brilliant cut gemstones, friendship in the form of friendship bands, and family which could be seen from the bequeathal of heirloom from one family member to another. Overall, jewelry whether big or small, cheap or expensive tells something about the characters of women that sometimes words could not define.

Women love fine jewelry for various reasons. They are articles of accessories that enhance the entire context of dressing and artistic display. They define social status which has been in practice since the ancient times with slaves wearing beads and upper class women wearing jewelry pieces that have rare loose diamonds. More importantly, they give substance to many instances in life such as weddings and engagements as seen from the use of rings accented with round brilliant cut gems.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Friday, September 3, 2010

Round Brilliant Cut Diamond""A Background

Among the 4 C's of diamonds, cutting or cut is probably the least understood even though it greatly affects the cost and appearance of these articles of fine jewelry. It is noteworthy that well cut diamonds could value 40 to 50 percent more than their poorly cut counterparts. Hence, it is important that a prospective buyer should understand what cut is. With regards to diamonds, cut or make pertains to the overall symmetry, proportioning and finish of the stones that have direct impact on the levels of their fire and brilliance.

The three most basic cutting techniques used for fine jewelry diamonds include the brilliant cut, step cut and mixed cut. A brilliant cut utilizes several facets that are usually triangular and kite in shape and are arranged in a particular manner to optimized the diamonds' brilliance. A step cut utilizes fewer facets, mostly rectangular or trapezoidal in shape and are arranged in linear pattern. A mixed-cut on the other hand integrates the elements used by both the step cut and brilliant cut styles.

From the above alluded techniques though, the brilliant cut is probably the most famous due to its ability to reveal the maximum fire and brilliance of diamonds. But, if integrated with the right shape, a brilliant cut sparkler will not only show the most brilliance and fire, it would also show incomparable appeal and value. Although, the brilliant cut fits well with differing shape, it is the round shape that complements it the most. In fact, round brilliant cut is the most popular shape that befits well with the said cutting technique.

Every round brilliant cut sparkler exudes 58 facets""33 are found on the top or crown, 24 are situated at the bottom, and the remaining one is at the point or culet. Smaller round brilliant diamonds are called "full cut" to properly distinguish them from "single cut" stones that have 17 facets, and from "Swiss cut" diamonds that have 33 facets only. With all these information perhaps you're now wondering, what is with these round brilliant diamonds that make them valuable? The answer lies on their capability to emit the most brilliance, fire and liveliness which could all be credited from their ability to reflect the most light.

The round brilliant cut is an established favorite and considered "ideal" combination of cut and shape not only because of its premium brilliance but also its ability to suit all types of jewelry pieces. Diamonds that are cut this way are often used as accents for engagement and wedding rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings since they could be easily arranged no matter what form or shape the jewelry has. Nonetheless, they befit all settings whether it is prong or pave. Basically, this cut warrants functionality and versatility that other cutting styles could not produce.

Of course, as stated earlier there are different cutting techniques that could be employed for diamonds. What might be ideal for some may not be the choice of another. If you are going to purchase diamonds, whether they are loose or clarity enhanced diamonds, it is important that you'd be the one to decide what type of cut you like because the appearance of an ideally cut sparkler may not be appealing to you, and your choice might probably be the ones that received the highest cut grade from GIA. The most important action that you could take is to compare diamonds of differing qualities and prices, as this is an efficient means to train your eyes to properly identify their differences when it comes to fire and brilliance as well as lifelessness and dullness.

The cutting techniques used for diamonds, whether they are loose or clarity enhanced diamonds; significantly affect their appeal and value. Among the cutting styles in use, the round brilliant cut is perhaps the most ideal due to its perfect proportions that allow diamonds cut this way to emit the most brilliance and fire. Round brilliant diamonds are also revered for their versatility which is apparent from their ability to suit all forms of fine jewelry setting.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Fine Jewelry: What To Look For

Is cut more important than clarity when evaluating diamonds? You could spend hours pondering on the merits of one over the other. However, to get a clear answer, you need to grasp the relationship between the two. More importantly, you'll need to mull over what you value in fine jewelry.

A diamond's cut alludes to its external proportions, as well as the skill of cutting and polishing. Diamonds can be cut in such a way that it attains its highest selling price, or maximizes its capacity for brilliance. The clarity of diamonds, on the other hand, alludes to the quantity of imperfections a diamond has. Fewer imperfections lead to a higher quality diamond, which will make it both more beautiful and expensive.

Clearly, the skill with which a diamond has been cut will impact its clarity. In the process of producing a diamond, this is one of the few factors which can be controlled. Only the most precise craftsmanship can guarantee that a raw piece of diamond will be recut into fine jewelry.

On the other hand, the clarity of diamonds can be poor irregardless of the quality of the cut. Clarity is also reliant on the quality of the raw diamond. As a consumer, you need to be conscious of this and check any diamonds you want to buy under a microscope or loupe to find flaws yourself.

When you look at a round cut diamond, you'll realize how important it is to cut a diamond with a reasonable amount of skill. It will also become more apparent just how closely cut and clarity are connected to each other. Round cuts are renowned for having the most potential for brilliance above all other cuts. Any errors in the cut or internal flaws, even minor, will reduce that potential considerably.

Do you like fine jewelry? Do you think it's the diamond with the best cut, or the highest clarity? You cannot ignore either factor. However, you can examine the cut first, since it affects clarity, as well as carat weight. Prioritizing one of the four C's over the others is counterproductive, if you lack a basic education on diamonds.

A diamond's cut refers to its external proportions, as well as the skill of cutting and polishing. The clarity of diamonds, on the other hand, refers to the number of imperfections a diamond has. When you look at a round cut diamond, you'll realize how important it is to cut a diamond with a reasonable amount of skill. Only the most precise craftsmanship can guarantee that a raw piece of diamond will be recut into fine jewelry.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Diamonds And The Four C's

While there are plenty of ways to express and show our sincere and purest form of love to our special someone, giving her a ring can definitely mean something more special. In deciding on the ring that we want to surprise our loved one with, we need to make it as extraordinary and unforgettable as possible.There could never be a perfect gift to give to your special someone or your loved one than a diamond ring. Diamonds are timeless pieces of gem making them a perfect symbol of eternal and lasting love.

Diamonds are the perfect choices when it comes to choosing the ring for your marriage proposal. These compelling pieces of jewelry can definitely make your loved one thrilled and even more surprised.Furthermore, these exclusive gemstones can survive the wear and tear of even the most extreme conditions making it an ideal sign of your eternal love.Even after a long period, these rings is guaranteed to remain as exquisite and as glamorous as it was when you first bought it.

However, the idea of popping out a ring and asking for the hand of our special someone might get us too thrilled in buying a ring straight away. Still, we have to be mindful of several important factors before we jump into our nearest jewelry store.These precious gemstones are expensive pieces of jewelry. That is why in picking the ring, we have to remember a number of factors to make sure that we will get the best ring for her. Also, since these rings are quite expensive, we have to be certain that we will be able to get the most out of the money we would invest for these expensive pieces of jewelry.

Diamonds are evaluated and graded based on their cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's.This grading system was first launched by the Gemological Institute of America otherwise known as GIA in 1931 and is now widely utilized and accepted as the standard grading system for these gemstones.

In choosing the perfect ring, the first thing to look for is the cut. This criterion refers to the shape of the stone and how well it was cut.Normally, the overall cutting craftsmanship and shape are being evaluated by the GIA whether a diamond stone is off-round or perfectly round and if the cuts are good enough.

Next factor to consider is the carat weight.The carat term for weight measurement of these gemstones was actually derived from a dry fruit that contains seeds that are called carob, whose seeds' actual weight is used to measure the weight of common gemstones. The present standard used internationally has a 5-carat diamond stone equivalent to a gram.

Color is also a vital feature of these precious gemstones that you should be familiar with. Among the most popular colors of these precious gemstones are those which are displaying apparent tint or yellow, which are also the more affordable varieties. Usually, the rarer the color of the diamond, the higher is its price tag. Among the rare and less affordable colors of these precious stones include pink, blue, or green.

The last characteristic you should keep in mind is the stone's clarity.Clarity is used by many jewelers for measuring the stone's impurities. Clarity is used to determine either the lack or the presence of imperfections of the diamond stone whether it is internal or external. Rare varieties of these gemstones do not usually have these impurities and those which are very rare are usually flawless.

In choosing a diamond ring we want to buy, we have to be mindful of several factors to make sure that we will get the best ring for our special someone. Diamonds are classified and graded according to their cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's. In choosing the rings we want to buy we have to consider these four factors to make sure that we will get our money's worth.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Engagement Rings And Other Diamond Gifts

Get diamonds not just as engagement rings or wedding rings, but also for other occasions. You can get them as business gifts for informal meet ups or celebrations. Buy them for family members on their birthdays, holidays or family reunions. Give diamond earrings and loose diamonds for those situations when you can't give rings. There is a diamond gift to match every occasion.

Seek engagement rings in a diversity of shapes, sizes, cleanliness, fluorescence and light performance. Diamonds also deviate and are rated by the four c's: clarity, carat, color and cut. If you are unknowledgeable regarding diamonds, you can still tell their variances in shape and design. But you might not fully comprehend how to properly assess diamonds for value without learning a few essentials.

Whether getting engagement rings, diamond earrings or loose diamonds, get a proper education on diamonds. This is so that you know the proper rationale behind the rating provided to your gift. This value isn't just in terms of what you're paying upfront, but in the gift's speculative value as well. Shop smart so that you can give the appropriate value to each gift recipient, whether they be a childhood friend, a business investor, or a prospective life partner.

Several aspects contained in valuing diamonds are not so obvious without a proper study. The fact is, in spite of the several gemological associations, valuing diamonds varies between them. There are also disparate grade systems utilized to rank and price diamonds. You may be buying diamond earrings worth more than loose diamonds, although they may appear to be the same size.

There are some things you should know immediately when it comes to grading diamonds. For one, their weight has more bearing on their price than the quality of their cut. Secondly, diamonds retain their value after it gets cut. Your diamond earrings are probably less than half their original size. But since cutting brings out their fire and brilliance, it raises their value.

Grading and pricing systems aside, you can't find anything like the greatest diamond. The Hope diamond, Oppenheimer diamond and Darya-I-Nur aren't any greater or lesser compared to your parent's engagement rings, or to any loose diamonds in the market today. The reason for this is that every diamond is built to be special. The best diamond gift is not the most expensive, but the one that best matches your needs.

Give diamonds not just as engagement rings or wedding rings, but to celebrate other events. You can buy them as business gifts for your coworkers outside of work. Give them for family members on their birthdays, holidays or family reunions. Give diamond earrings and loose diamonds for those situations when you can't give rings. Whatever you're celebrating, there's a diamond gift for it.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond engagement ring and the vow to love forever.

For most couples, exchanging marriage vows is the ultimate expression of true love they wish to reach in their relationship. It begins when the man or the woman pops the ultimate question that usually comes with a presentation of a ring. The symbolic token before marriage can be a promise ring, a simple engagement ring or the traditional diamond engagement ring. And wearing an engagement ring is an exciting reminder for the couple that they will soon wed and build a family together.

Many guys who have gone through the engagement ring shopping before can attest that it is not an easy task.Of course, it is always easier if the couples shop together, but that is not always the case. Excluding the cost, there are a lot to consider about the ring itself, like the style and gemstone, when you go ring shopping.Each ring has an embedded gemstone which can have a different cut, color and weight. One example of a popular ring design is the trinity or trilogy ring, a three-stone diamond engagement ring that is seen to represent the past, present and future relationship of the couple.

Marrying men can also wear an engagement band which usually is his wedding band, too.Meanwhile, women has a different ring for engagement and wedding, although many had chosen to wield these two together after the wedding for practical purposes.But the fact remains that when you decide to get married, you would need to purchase at least three rings.For many couples, they have opted to purchase a jewelry wedding bands in a matching set that includes a man's wedding band, a woman's engagement ring and a woman's wedding ring.

Marriage signifies a love that lasts forever - that's why there is no other gemstone that would be a perfect representation of this marriage than a diamond. The strength of a marriage is associated with the strength of the toughest stone, diamond, such is why diamonds are the popular gemstone to use in marriage rings. In the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, diamond is graded perfect 10, the highest grade for mineral strength. On the practical side, diamonds are very resistant to scratches which would make it perfect for wedding rings that are used everyday.

Before buying a diamond engagement ring, set a budget range and do ample research. Diamond rings are more expensive than others because its gemstone is a high-priced, precious commodity. The average price is somewhere between $3,500 and $4,000, depending on the diamond's color, carat weight, cut and clarity. As long as you stick to your budget, you can then feel free to choose among the many styles and design to buy your girlfriend.A diamond ring adds a special feeling to the engagement, but it's size doesn't reflect the level of love you have for each other.

In the end, remember that the focus of marriage if you as a couple, and not the material symbol of it. You need not purchase an very expensive ring that will only burden you financially.You can also inquire about jewelry wedding bands in matching set as this is often cheaper in sets.Just enjoy shopping! This should be an exciting moment for the buyer as much as it will be for the recipient of the ultimate question and the engagement ring.

Popping that question and presenting a diamond engagement ring is a big moment for any couple. After all, a diamond ring represents a long lasting love and eternity which is what marriage is all about. But contrary to this traditional belief, marriage rings need not have diamonds in them. For those with budgetary concerns, there are wedding rings made of other beautiful stones and affordable set of jewelry wedding bands as an option. The important thing is the celebration of true love between the couple, and not the material symbol of it.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Getting The Best Inexpensive Diamonds

The diamond remains as one of the most coveted gems in history. It serves as a manifestation of power, love, invincibility and refinement to name a few. Because of the many beautiful things that such gemstone encompasses and the troubles associated with its mining, owning one could cost a person an arm and leg. If you have limited budget at hand and would like to buy cheap diamond, you can follow some of the simple guidelines below to secure one.

As a start, why not search for online jewelry shops that are known for their inexpensive jewelry pieces but are high in quality? Online jewelry shopping is a very practical means to come up with an inexpensive diamond because compared to local jewelry shops that usually place markup prices on their diamonds to cover their overhead expenses, online jewelry stores offer their clients with competitive prices in such a way that they don't incur additional costs often induced by overhead expenses. You can also try participating in online diamond auctions where jewelers usually bring to the table some of their inexpensive diamonds. Of course, if you buy online you are definitely saving your money, time and energy without the need to exhaust yourself from personally visiting one jewelry shop to another.

If you have no problem buying pre-owned items, another option that you can go for is to drop by at stores that offer discounted or inexpensive jewelry pieces. Pawnshops and thrift shops are stores that often sell pre-owned jewelry pieces. However, this option would be more preferable for those people who are knowledgeable enough about diamonds, and are not in a hurry to buy. Nonetheless, if you really are open for this option you must be prepared to get disappointed because more likely that you'll leave the shops empty handed, but if it's your lucky day chances are you'd be able to close a good deal and get a sparkler that is still in good condition.

Another practical option when buying cheap diamond is to go for the so called loose diamond. Basically, a loose diamond is a real type of diamond that hasn't been used for jewelry production process. It would be more practical to buy loose diamond than to purchase a diamond set on jewelry because you are not required to pay for the metal used for the jewelry, the services, warranty as well as the gift casing often included in ready-to-wear diamond jewelry pieces. With loose diamonds, you have the option to customize your jewelry according to your own preference.

Alongside online shopping and buying loose diamonds, you can also get cheap diamond by downgrading some of its characteristics. By downgrading on some of the areas or the 4Cs of your diamond, you can make a huge difference in terms of cost. If you're worried about the quality of your sparkler, you don't have to because downgrading does not incur discernible reduction on the quality of the diamond. Downgrading can be as simple as purchasing an eye-clear clarity grade diamond or buying a sparkler that has a carat grade lower than exact half numbers or full numbers.

Lastly, if you are really tight on budget, you can settle for clarity enhanced diamonds or treated diamonds. With an exemption for very rare and flawless diamonds, almost all diamonds have flaws known as inclusion or imperfection. The inclusion is what determines the clarity grade of a diamond. So, when you speak of clarity enhanced sparklers they have imperfections that were corrected by irradiation, filling imperfections, laser drilling and so on, but such quality enhancements are not discernible for the untrained eyes; thereby making this option a good one for people with tight budgets.

If you know how to buy cheap diamond you can totally save a good sum of money that you can use for other purposes. Inexpensive jewelry pieces such as clarity enhanced diamonds are becoming popular nowadays. This is because they are more economical and at the same time there are absolutely no visual differences between non-enhanced and enhanced diamonds. If you are on a tight budget going for treated diamonds is a good means to properly use your money.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Tokens Of Love""Fine Jewelry Pieces

Fine jewelry refers to items that are commonly used for personal accessories, most common of which includes earrings, bracelets, necklaces and brooches. Jewelry can be made from various materials including precious metals, gemstones and seashells. Since prehistoric times, jewelry has captured the attention of humans, and this perspective remains the same to date. As a matter of fact, we are very fond of using different jewelry pieces everyday.

For the most part, fine jewelry pieces have long been used for the purpose of adornment; however, aside from the said function they also serve as the perfect tokens for a whole range of occasions. This is because they denote fashion sensitivity and timelessness which means they never go out of style regardless of their finish and material, and they cross the boundaries in many societal aspects. A perfect example of such perspective is in the form of engagement or wedding rings which have been utilized as tokens during engagements or weddings. Jewelry pieces are also used as symbolic items for group membership; in many organizations worldwide, the use of rings or pins are strong notions of acceptance and camaraderie.

Nowadays there's a wide selection of fine jewelry pieces for both males and females. For females, popular jewelry choices includes necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets and rings. For men, the most common jewelry pieces available are cuff links, tie accessories, watches, customized rings, necklaces and money clips. Overtime, the designs, finishes and prices of these pieces have evolved in order to befit differing situational, cultural and occasional needs.

If you wish to give something meaningful to someone, you may want to purchase jewelry pieces with gemstones. Loose diamonds are the most preferable gemstones to accentuate jewelry pieces because they are widely available, cost efficient, and goes well with any jewelry design and occasions. If you're planning to propose to your loved one, the best way to do so is to give her a ring with loose sparklers. This is an excellent way to tell her how much you love her as the ring itself is already representative of your undying and unending love, while the diamonds would represent your indestructible love towards her.

Earrings, bracelets and necklaces that have loose diamonds are also ideal choices as presents as you can never go wrong in terms of design and finish. These jewelry pieces are crafted perfectly for female members of the family such as your sister or mother that could be given to them during their birthdays or during special events in their lives. Other than the wide selections available, the use of these pieces are not only confined to specific occasions, rather they can be utilized everyday the inexpensive ones. Definitely, loose sparklers could go a long way to improve the aesthetic of your gift and they will never go out of style as they are timeless pieces that could be worn over and over again.

If you're a woman and would like to give something different to your father on father's day or maybe your husband during your anniversary, a simple cuff link is the most appropriate choice for you. When it comes to cuff links, there are no restrictions when it comes to themes and motifs because they can encapsulate the best trait of your loved one. For example, a round cut matt silver cuff link with loose sparklers can be given to a man who is secretive or authoritative. All in all, jewelry pieces are ideal gifts for all occasions as they are timeless items that totally express your emotions in small but meaningful packages, and more importantly they best represent how you value the person to whom you are going to give them.

Fine jewelry pieces have long been used as tokens due to their timeless appeal and rich symbolic value. In fact they are considered as the perfect gift ideas for all occasions. To further improve the appeal of these items however, gemstones like loose diamonds in differing cut are incorporated. Round cut loose sparklers for instance is widely used are adornments for three stoned engagement or wedding rings.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Common Types Of Fine Jewelry

The visual appeal of fine jewelry has never failed to capture our attention. As a matter of fact, jewelry pieces are sometimes perceived as the determining factor of societal status especially during the ancient times. These precious objects have profoundly molded some of the most important traditions in history. From necklaces and earrings, to rings and bracelets, these adornments have provided humans with worldly satisfaction that no other material could induce.

There are many types of fine jewelry pieces to choose from. Some are utilized as personal ornamentation, while others stand as symbolic tokens given during special occasions. There are also articles of jewelry that are simple in design and inexpensive, while there are also pieces that are expensive due to the materials used to construct them. Some of the most popular and commonly used pieces would be discussed here to provide further understanding about their qualities and uses. Rings are perhaps the most common articles of jewelry that almost all of us are familiar with. They are widely available in several varieties; they may come as plain cylindrical bands commonly seen in wedding rings adorned with gemstones such as diamond heart setting, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings are used for differing purposes but usually they serve as symbolic tokens given during special events like betrothals and weddings, or just to highlight one's fingers. In the case of signet rings, they commonly bear the emblems of fraternal orders or other organizational insignias.

Another type of jewelry is the necklace, which is intended designed to be worn around the neck. Basically, there are four general forms of necklaces: close fitting collar band with stones or beads, chain necklace with a single pendant, row of beads that are usually graduated in size held by a wire or chain, and several chains or strings of differing lengths worn on top of each other. Necklaces can be created from various materials but works well with metals, gemstones or the combination of two, and they are usually partnered with pendants made from gemstones with the diamond heart being one of the most sought after pendant design. In order to highlight necklaces, they are worn with tops or dresses that have low necklines, as this clothing finish diverts the attention of people towards the neck where the said jewelry is hanged.

Meanwhile, earrings are jewelry for the ears that can either be set on against the ear lobes or hanging drops like pendants. One of the most usual forms of earrings set on the earlobes are large pearls, while popular hanging earrings are chandeliers and hoops. Traditionally, wearing earrings demands for ear piercings because the practice of wearing this jewelry in the past was a barbarous custom. Today, earrings can be worn by means of clipping them to the ear, though the method of ear piercing is still practiced.

Another type of fine jewelry is the bracelet, which is worn on the arm. Such large piece of ring-like jewelry can be in the form of closed band, spiral coil, open on one side, closed with clasp as well as flexible rings formed as links. Other than the outlined pieces, there are still many more jewelry pieces found in the market such as pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons. All in all, articles of jewelry vary in terms of function, design and quality; it is within the discretion of the wearer where he or she would like to use these pieces.

In creating fine jewelry articles, metals, gemstones, coins as well as other materials are utilized though they are commonly set into precious metals, accentuated with gemstones like diamond heart. Aside from their ornamental purpose, jewelry pieces have long been used throughout history as symbolic tokens given during occasions especially during weddings and betrothals. They were also used to denote power and status in many societies.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Contrasting Aspects Of Wedding Ring And Engagement Ring

Since prehistoric times, bands have played significant roles during betrothals and marriages. In fact, it would be difficult to imagine completing engagement and wedding ceremonies without any band to attest that such events really happened. Due to their enduring presence, the use and purpose of wedding ring and engagement ring are often confounded with each other. However, it should be taken into consideration that although they are commonly seen worn by married women, they have contrasting characteristics in many aspects.

In order to identify the differences of wedding ring and engagement ring, let's take a closer look at their individual functions. To simply put it, an engagement ring is given by the man to the woman prior to their marriage in order to signify that they are bound to be married. On the other hand, wedding bands are the jewelry pieces exchanged and worn by the couple during their wedding day to seal their marital vows. After the wedding ceremony and into the future, both the bands are worn on the same finger, this applies to women since men do not wear engagement bands though there are engagement bands intended for men.

Between the wedding and engagement hoops, most couples invest more on their engagement bands. As a matter of fact, an engagement ring is probably the ring that captures more attention than the wedding ring, which is appropriate as it symbolizes the silent announcement of the engaged status of the couple. Traditionally, engagement bands have protruding center stones usually made from fine diamond jewelry. Today though, it is no longer a requisite to have diamond engagement ring as other precious stones can also be used as central accents such as ruby, sapphire, and opal to name a few.

Meanwhile, wedding ring is the exact opposite of engagement ring in terms of design and finish as it is often plain and simple, or sometimes appear as less accentuated with gemstones. However, the design of the wedding bands is always dependent on the couple's choice; there are couples who also use fine diamond jewelry for their wedding bands, though this is not always the case as the plain finish of such band represents the sanctity of marriage. Traditionally, both wedding and engagement bands are worn on the left finger between the index and pinkie fingers because according to belief the said finger on the left hand has the vein that is directly connected to the heart which is called as vena amori. However, there are also cultures that traditionally wear their wedding and engagement bands on the right hand, specifically on the right ring finger.

Wedding and engagement bands are usually purchased separately from each other. They could also be purchased as a set; hence, some wedding bands are as intricately designed as the engagement bands they come with. If you would be purchasing these bands separately, always try to consider that you would be using them on a daily basis, so when you are to pick each piece select the shape of the gemstone that would complement your lifestyle. Diamond may be hard, but it is most likely to chip off or break especially if its edges are pointed; it would be more appropriate to pick bands that have round brilliant cut stones embedded in them as they are more likely to last longer.

In general, wedding ring and engagement ring are two important jewelry pieces that symbolizes two of the most important stages in the relationship of couples""engagement and marriage. They indeed have distinct qualities that sets them apart from each other. Regardless of their many differences though, it is undeniable that both of them are built upon the concept of representing undying love, as seen from the round finish of the bands and their material makeup. They also function as material seals that strengthen their vows and the symbolic meaning and sentimentality of the couple's devotion for each other.

Wedding ring and engagement ring are important fixtures in the relationship of couples. An engagement ring is an indication of the engaged status of couple. It is usually more expensive than the wedding ring as it is commonly made from fine diamond jewelry with round brilliant cut and side gemstones. Wedding bands on the other hand are exchanged by couples during the wedding ceremony to seal their marital vows and are simple in design and finish.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Loose Diamonds: The Round Brilliant And Other Cuts

Why purchase loose diamonds? They're not quite as practical as earrings and necklaces. You would not be able to wear them, or bring them anywhere you go. But diamonds have a beauty on their own that can't be matched by diamonds set in jewelry. They seem even more exceptional when they are bought for their own sake.

Diamonds come in a variety of designs, known in the trade as cuts. The most famous of these is the round brilliant cut. Simply put, the round brilliant is the most famous because it provides the most brilliance. It has been cut in such a way that it reflects the most light. What most people don't know is that the shape of the round brilliant is the least practical. As much as half of the original diamond is left out when it is changed into a round brilliant. For this reason, diamonds are sold in several other shapes as well, commonly known as fancy cuts.

Now some of the fancy cuts are already based on familiar designs, and will appeal to people even if they don't know much about diamonds. The heart and oval cuts describe themselves. The pear cut is often interpreted as an upside down teardrop.

On the other hand, how do you explain to people the differences between the Asscher and emerald cut, or the princess and radiant cut, when they may all look the same? This is where we get a bit technical, but fortunately you don't have to get that esoteric.

Emerald and Asscher cuts are classified as step cuts. Unlike the round brilliant, they are rectangular in shape, with each side bordered with small steps. Step cuts accentuate lustre and clarity over brilliance. The Asscher cut has been popular for over 100 years, and its proportions are less even.

The princess and radiant cuts come from a third category, known as mixed cuts. They have more brilliance than step cuts, but are more cost-effective than brilliant cuts. The princess cut is only second to the round brilliant in its popularity, whereas the radiant cut has over 70 cuts.

When picking loose diamonds, you need not be intimidated by technical knowledge. You can buy based on what cut you like. The jeweler, in turn, will narrow your choices in terms of price and quality, and help find the best choice for you.

Diamonds are produced in a variety of designs, known in the trade as cuts. The way the round brilliant cut has been cut makes it reflects the most light. Step cuts accentuate lustre and clarity over brilliance. Mixed cuts evoke the brilliance of brilliant cuts, but are more practical to produce. When selecting loose diamonds, you need not be intimidated by technical knowledge. You can buy based on what cut you like.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond Enhancements: A Simple Guide To Clarity Enhanced Diamond

Diamonds are one of the most desired commodities by many women worldwide. In fact, if you are a man who would like to make your woman immediately agree to your marriage proposal, you might want to give her fine jewelry that have diamonds in it. Of course, diamonds aren't cheap; just a piece could already cost you a fortune especially if you are rooting for the ones that are rare and have high quality features. However, if you really like to seal your vows of love with diamonds without spending too much, you could simply opt for diamonds that were enhanced to improve some of their features.

Clarity is one of the most valuable traits of a diamond that also serves as a determining factor to identify its real value. For example, untouched loose diamonds are expensive because they do not exude imperfections and inclusions making their clarity high in grade. However, there are in the market today what are known as clarity enhanced sparklers. Compared to untouched diamonds, these treated gemstones are inexpensive due to the manipulations in their clarity feature to make them appear more aesthetically appealing.

Clarity enhanced diamond is a gemstone that had imperfections that were once visible to the naked eye. This simply means that the said diamond had low clarity grade, and because no jewelry buyer would like to have a visibly imperfect diamond, its imperfections, that often affect the stone's clarity, are treated in order to make it more visually clear. After the enhancement process there would be absolutely no visual differences between an enhanced diamond and untouched diamond. Enhanced diamonds are also referred to as "fracture filled diamonds."

There are several types of enhancement process carried out in order to achieve clarity enhanced diamond. The most common of which is drilling wherein a tiny hole is drilled into the diamond to remove minerals or elements that often causes discoloration. This process is done using a laser, which emits a beam capable of creating a neat hole directly towards the gemstone's inclusion. After this, the diamond may be left with a small fracture which would be filled with a heavy glass that is definitely unnoticeable by the naked eyes; this latter process is also referred to as fracture filling.

If you would buy diamonds in the future, do not forget that according to the FTC rules, diamonds that underwent enhancements other than basic cutting, cleaning and polishing should be fully disclosed by the jeweler to the buyer. However, if you really want to be sure before you make your purchase, you could ask the jeweler if you could have the diamond appraised by a different appraising firm. Remember a clarity enhanced diamond is hardly discernible. Hence, the best thing that you could do is to have the diamond tested in order to know whether it has been enhanced or not.

If you're a guy who would like to have a decent looking diamond that would complement your limited budget, a clarity enhanced sparkler would definitely be a good choice. If all the other traits of the enhanced diamond are in excellent condition, and the diamond itself is visually clean in grade, don't let the thought of enhancement discourage you from taking it as recourse. Similar to flawless diamonds, enhanced sparklers could also complement any form of fine jewelry pieces and are guaranteed to last for long. Hence, enhanced diamonds may not be perfect, but they could definitely express your true emotions the same way as flawless diamonds.

Nowadays, it is difficult to find inexpensive loose diamonds that one could befit into fine jewelry pieces. However, if you really wish to give your loved one something special without necessarily emptying your pocket, clarity enhanced diamond could be the perfect option for you. Although it does not thoroughly exemplify the perfection that an untouched diamond exudes, it is definitely a good find as its enhancements are barely discernible to the naked eye.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond Jewelry Gifts Purchasing Tips

So, you are a young man in love, with that burning desire in your heart to offer your bride-to-be a diamond ring and ask her to marry you. The idea seems simple, all you have to do is go to a jewelry store, purchase a diamond ring, and propose to her. In reality however, this is not always what it feels like especially if you are able to get a hold of the price tag of your chosen sparkler and you would soon realize how intimidating it is to purchase diamond jewelry gifts. If you have the plans to purchase a diamond, it is vital for you to know the tricks of the trade so that in the future when you're ready you would take control of every transaction you make and be able to close a good deal.

Fred Cuellar, a gemologist and world-renowned diamond expert, believed that there are four things that a buyer has to consider when purchasing diamond jewelry gifts: budget, expectations, savvy and timetable. When it comes to budget, you should be able to allocate the amount that you could afford and as much as possible should not exceed your laid budget plan; a month's salary could already suffice for you to buy a diamond. As for expectations, it is advised for you to know and understand the needs and wants of the person to whom you're about to present the diamond; by doing this you would have a feel of what diamond type would be appropriate for that person. Being savvy requires you to know the given cost of diamond in the market and the best designs available, as they say knowledge is power; and for the element of timetable, you must have a laid plan about when and where you intend to give the diamond, do not haste things and be sure to give yourself enough time to analyze things.

Since you are now aware of the general basics, you should also consider where to buy your sparklers. There are two options available for you to be able to secure your diamond jewelry gifts: go online or visit your local jewelry stores. Purchasing online is a practical means to buy diamond pieces without the need to drive far as the items you need are just a click away; however, there are two major drawbacks with this option: you can't personally appraise the diamond and you never really know whom you are dealing with; if you think this would work for you, make sure to do a background check first so that you can be assured that you know where your money would go. The second option which is to check on your local jewelry shops is still the best because aside from the fact that you could personally appraise the diamond, the jewelers could also assist you on your purchasing decisions.

Now for the diamond itself, you must always consider the 4Cs of diamond which stands for clarity, color, cut and carat as they are the determining factor of how the diamond will cost. Clarity refers to the absence and presence of blemishes and inclusion in a diamond. As each diamond vary from one another, they are assigned with corresponding clarity grades that may range from flawless to obvious inclusions. Sometimes, due to quality issues there are diamond pieces that are treated to reduce their imperfections by irradiation, filling imperfections, or laser drilling, these are known as clarity enhanced sparklers which are usually lesser in value.

With regards to color, diamond pieces are available in different shades; however, colored diamond pieces are very rare and expensive, so it is more likely that when you visit shops you'd observe that only white and yellow sparklers are available but between these two colors, it's always best to settle for whiter diamond pieces. This is because the yellow coloring of sparklers came from nitrogen which affect their sharp and sparkly features; hence, as a rule of thumb, the yellower the diamond, the cheaper it becomes. As for the cut, diamond pieces could be cut in wide variety of shapes such as round brilliant cut, marquise, box and more. More than indicating the shape of the diamond, a cut also determines how sparkly such gemstone will be.

It is never enough for a diamond to be just white and clear, unless cut in the right manner your diamond will not sparkle. Though cut is extremely difficult to evaluate, you could be able to do this by identifying three of its characteristics: brilliance, fire and scintillation; but if you want to take a short cut, the standard round brilliant cut is probably the best choice as all the other cut are considered as fancy shapes. Lastly, the carat refers to the unit weight of a diamond. Majority of diamond pieces used for fine jewelry often weight one carat or less; this is because a fraction of a carat can make a big difference on the value of diamond.

If you intend to buy diamond jewelry gifts, chances are, you're having trouble with what to pick. Regardless if you want to buy a round brilliant cut diamond or clarity enhanced diamond, it is always advised to adhere to the BEST guideline which refers to budget, expectations, savvy and timetable. You should also consider the 4Cs of diamond which stands for carat, color, clarity and cut.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Loose Diamonds: Choosing Round Brilliant And Other Cuts

For most people, the only time they buy diamonds is when they want wedding or engagement rings. The smart way to go about this is to find loose diamonds first and have them set later. You can inspect them for defects better, and improve your chances of a good deal. However, you need to be cautious when buying. It's easy to make mistakes and pay too much, or get stuck with an inferior diamond.

When looking at loose diamonds, you need to verify the diamond's value. You'll want to examine each one for the four C's; carat weight, cut, clarity and color. But remember that each diamond is unique, and it's uncommon for a single diamond to get two separate assessments with identical results. Ultimately, the value of a diamond is subjective, so you shouldn't be too preoccupied looking for it's exact value.

The greatest diamond cut of all is the round brilliant cut. Thanks to the work of Marcel Tolkowsky, the proportions required to get the most brilliance and fire out of a diamond were verified and popularized. Further innovations streamlined Tolkowsky's measurements to optimize diamond's potential for brilliance.

The round brilliant cut is also the perennial favorite cut. In contrast, the popularity of fancy cuts are dependent on prevailing trends. Nowadays, people look for sparkle, so the heart, oval, and pear cuts are popular. However, the quality and value of a diamond is dependent on other factors. You can easily get a high value diamond of any cut - or low value, if you buy carelessly.

So buy a diamond jewelry gift with any cut you desire. It may be in a shape that you or your significant other like, or one that strikes a chord with you. If all you want is a large diamond, and you don't mind scratches, it's easy to get one for cheap. But even if you are buying cheap, you have to scrutinize your purchases to avoid getting gypped.

When it comes time to set your loose diamond, it's best to have it done by the same people who sold it to you. If you bring it to another jeweler, they won't want to be held responsible for any damage the diamond may incur during setting. If the seller won't guarantee their own diamonds, just forget them and look for a seller who does.

For most people, the only time they buy diamonds is to get engagement and wedding rings. The smart way to go about this is to find loose diamonds first and have them set later. The round brilliant cut is the perennial favorite diamond cut. The popularity of fancy cuts are dependent on prevailing trends. However, the quality and value of a diamond is dependent on other factors. So buy a diamond jewelry gift with the cut you prefer.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond rings are more than just a luxury

People with extra money would usually channel their funds on investments that can earn their money interest.Instead of keeping it in the bank, they would use their funds to buy land, stocks or condominium units which can reap them additional interest in the long run.

But while enormous and expensive assets may be the way for most people, others choose to invest on more enjoyable and less expensive items.And what else can cater to their interest but their hobbies which can be a more delightful way to spend their extra cash.

Some hobbies are also considered an investment because as time goes by they also increase in value just like luxury cars, fine jewelry and toys.Choosing the right toys and even the right jewelry, particularly gold or diamond rings is the key factor in getting the right investment hobby that would naturally appreciate in value as the years pass.

Toys are a good example of items that, when kept in mint condition, can actually sell for more than its original value, sometimes ten to twenty times the original.On top of the list of hobby investments that gains value over the years is fine jewelry.Diamond rings can only get more expensive so as other jewelry decorated with diamonds.

Diamond rings can also be a investment not only in the financial sense but also a material asset dedicated for someone you love or care for.Diamonds pretty much last for a lifetime so it can be smart investment compared to other things like cars or houses that can depreciate as time takes its toll and cause mechanical or aesthetic problems.

In a nutshell, spending extra money on assets and investments is a smart thing to do as it should be dictated by the desired outcome as time progresses.While there are readily available investments means, it might be also ideal to explore other avenues that not only gives more value to an investor's money but also entertain and feeds their hobby or interests.

Spending on investments can help give more value to your money over the years. Houses and Lots are some of the usual investments people can invest on. But there are some who like to spend on items that are not only a wise investment but also an ideal source of happiness or interest like fine jewelry or luxury cars. Diamond rings is one good investment since it can last for a long time and naturally gets more expensive over time.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond Heart Jewelry: A Special Kind Of Appeal

The round brilliant cut is considered the gold standard for diamond cuts. Designed to maximize the potential of a diamond's brilliance, this cut is also known as the most uneconomical, with over half of the raw diamond discarded to get to this ideal shape. Not to say that it's the only shape diamonds should be in. In fact, the diversity of diamond cuts increases their overall desirability.

And diamond heart jewelry is as desirable as it gets. Heart cuts share a lot of characteristics as the pear cut, but vary in height and width. The heart cut retains some brilliance found in the round brilliant cut, but also flaunts the diamond's other qualities, like clarity. Bear in mind that this shape was not invented casually. The heart cut is essentially the pear cut with a cleft added in.

Admittedly, diamond heart jewelry may not appeal to everyone. Some people may feel that it is too trifling to use in their wedding rings. Still, it is hard to dispute the romantic appeal of the heart shape. Since it is a relatively newer cut, there are less guidelines in making heart cut diamonds compared to round brilliant.

In comparison, with round brilliant cut diamonds, your primary concern really is just the brilliance of the piece. Diamond makers built on Tolkowsky's Ideal Cut, the original standard for the round cut. Thanks to breakthroughs in the science of refraction and manufacturing technology, they're able to utilize a raw diamond's potential to reach maximum brilliance.

It is imperative that you do a quality check before any purchase of diamond heart jewelry. Particularly, you need to check that it does not have any blemishes, cracks or other imperfections. Some imperfections are not visible to the naked eye, but still alter the diamond's value. These imperfections do become apparent under the microscope, and are considered when the finished diamond is graded and priced.

If you prefer to get more value for your investment, you should keep watch for enhanced diamonds. These are treatments performed on diamonds after they have been cut and polished, to excise these imperfections. Government regulations require that any enhancements be divulged to potential buyers. These treatments diminish their value and are only performed on seriously flawed diamonds.

It is vital that you do a quality check before you obtain any heart jewelry. In particular, you need to confirm that it does not have any blemishes, cracks or other imperfections. With round brilliant cut diamonds, your primary consideration really is just the brilliance of the piece. You should be on guard for enhanced diamonds. These are treatments performed on diamonds after they have been cut and polished to excise these imperfections and reduce their value.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond Rings: Spy With Your Little Eye

Clarity is one of the four C's that influences the quality of the diamond. It refers to the number of flaws found in a diamond. These flaws are imperfections caused by mistakes in cutting or that arise from the original rock. A diamond with poor clarity will have faults that are conspicuous, even to the naked eye. They will not look attractive set in diamond rings, and have low resell value. In contrast, a diamond with great clarity is highly coveted by collectors, and will be a gift of true value to loved ones.

Flaws can be classified into two; external flaws are called blemishes, whereas flaws within the diamond, that can affect its ability to reflect light, are called inclusions. Since inclusions get in the way of a diamond's sparkle, they can reduce the value of a diamond more, but they can also be useful. Inclusions can be used to identify specific diamonds as a sort of diamond fingerprint. In this way, you would be able to secure your diamond rings.

Diamonds are graded based on the visibility of these flaws. This grading occurs while they are still loose diamonds. There are several gemological organizations worldwide that have developed separate grading systems, although in many cases they are very similar. You should acquaint yourself with the grading system used in the store where you buy your diamond. When looking for diamond rings, you will want to inspect the clarity of the diamond above anything else. Clarity is one of the main factors used in determining a diamond's monetary value. It is a standard employed by gemological organizations across the board.

To ensure you get diamonds of the highest clarity, get loose diamonds first. This way, you can check on these diamonds with your own eyes. You can ask the jeweler for a loupe or magnifier so that you can view them under 10 x magnification. If they are hesitant to let you take a closer look, it's a red flag to look elsewhere.

Jewelry stores are not always what they appear to be. One store may be offering dirt cheap sales, or limited period sales. Don't think about getting a bargain; you'll end up with paltry trinkets ten years later. Your priority should be getting diamonds of lasting value. You can buy a good quality diamond at a reasonable price, if you take the time to learn about diamonds.

When shopping for diamond rings, you will want to assess the clarity of the diamond above anything else. Clarity is one of the main factors used in determining a diamond's monetary value. Don't look at jewelry stores at face value. To ensure you get diamonds of the highest clarity, get loose diamonds first. You can buy a good quality diamond at a reasonable price, if you take the time to learn about diamonds.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Enhancing The Look Of Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Through The Right Settings

Diamond jewelry gifts are perhaps among the best tokens that a person could give and receive. Although the value of gifts is not actually determined by their outside appearance rather from the sincerity of the one who gave such gifts, it cannot be overlooked that there are instances that we often take gratitude not only for the sincerity of the person but also the aesthetics of the gifts given to us. Taking these things into consideration, diamonds are the best tokens that could actually fulfill our emotional and aesthetic needs when it comes to gifts. Likewise, with their durability, they are the gifts that could never be forgotten even after years have passed by.

If you are about to purchase diamond gifts, it would be more preferable to settle for loose diamonds since they are not yet incorporated in any piece of jewelry. Meaning, you could actually have them customized in accordance to your desired setting and piece of jewelry. Similarly, it would be easier for you to have the gems appraised knowing that you could perceive their overall features. One of the most important features that you could look after with these kinds of diamonds is the cut.

It is imperative to exactly identify what cut is in reference to diamonds and how it is different from shape. Shape is associated to the outline of the gem's perimeter, while the cut or also referred to as make is what affects the appearance of the stone as it is associated to the proportioning and overall finish of the diamond, which are the two factors that helps the stone to produce fire or the rainbow we perceive inside diamonds and brilliance which refers to the liveliness or sparkle of the stone. Accordingly, a diamond with a good cut is more valuable than a diamond with a poor cut. There are various ways in which diamonds can be cut; however, the so-called round brilliant cut is considered as the most popular among jewelers and jewelry buyers.

Round brilliant cut is the standard cut for diamonds and is considered as the best at producing prismatic effect, which means its shape displays the most sparkle since it enables the most light to reflect back on the top of the diamond. Diamonds cut this way exemplify greater brilliance than other diamonds as they have no corners where light could hide. This is the primary reason why the brilliance and fire of the diamond are exemplified at their maximum levels. Although there are shapes and cut that are comparable to round cut diamonds, the latter remains as the favorite of most jewelers.

Round brilliant cut diamonds are known for their versatility as seen from their ability to complement a whole range of jewelry settings. If you wish to offer a round brilliant diamond ring during your proposal, there's a wide array of ring settings that you could choose from. The prong setting is probably the most traditional band setting wherein the diamond is held sturdily by four or six prongs of equal height in order to make the gem stick up away from the finger. Pave setting is designed with closely set diamonds with trinkets of gems in between, while a bezel setting is acknowledged for its rim or collar that surrounds the entire side or a portion of the diamond, and extends just a bit above the stone.

Aside from the aforementioned settings, other noteworthy settings used for round brilliant loose diamonds include the channel setting, where diamonds of similar sizes are placed in a metal channel forming a row, and bar setting where diamonds are incorporated in grooves with metals to separate them from each other. All in all, it cannot be denied that diamond jewelry pieces are indeed the perfect gifts because of their beauty and intrinsic value. Hence, if you wish to give the best for your loved one and proudly express to him or her how you feel, then diamond jewelry is always a good choice.

If you are searching for gifts that are truly worthy of your money, diamond jewelry gifts would be a good preference. Loose diamonds are becoming popular today because many jewelry makers are willing to design for individuals who wish to have unique jewelry pieces. For loose sparklers that could befit any jewelry setting, choose the ones that have round brilliant cut so as to maximize the fire and brilliance they produce.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Round Brilliant Cut: The Most Ideal Cut For Diamonds

Since the ancient times, diamonds have captivated the interest of humans. They are the most admired ornaments that nature has given; they are things that symbolize beauty and forever. From all the stones that the world has introduced, diamonds are the most distinguished""appealing to people of all classes. Whether they are loose diamonds or blood diamonds, one thing remains a fact, they will continuously captivate the attention of generations of people.

Because of our deep appreciation for diamonds, they emerged as permanent trinkets of jewelry during special occasions such as betrothals and weddings. Fine diamond rings and almost all diamond jewelry pieces have become valuable possessions that are in the same valued positions as that of real estate and artworks. Due to these, purchasing diamond pieces has turned into an endeavor that requires thorough understanding of the stones characteristics in order to make wise choices. Much has been discussed about the clarity, color and carat of diamonds, but little attention is given towards the value of diamond cutting.

Cut with an emphasis on diamonds, refers to the guide of style or design used to shape a diamond for polishing. This is totally different from shape as it relates to the symmetry, proportioning and polish of the diamond, which in turn affect how it produces brilliance and fire. The history of diamond cutting can be traced from as far back as the middle ages, and has since been innovated until today. Despite the emergence of new cutting styles, the round brilliant cut remains as the most popular of its kind.

It was in 1919 that round brilliant cut was introduced by Belgian diamond cutter Marcel Tolkowsky to the public. Since Tolkowsky was an engineer by profession, he's discovery of the said cut was based from definite mathematical and empirical analysis, taking into account the importance of brilliance and fire in diamonds. As a result, a diamond that had undergone this cutting style exemplifies 58 facets; 33 of which are on the top of the stone and 25 are in the bottom part of the gem including its culet or point. Likewise, it yields two diamonds in one cut, one larger than the other; hence, very little diamond pieces are wasted.

A round brilliant cut diamond that is cut properly creates a shape that permits more light to reflect on the diamond in differing angles, enhancing its brilliance and fire. Relative to its safe shape, diamonds cut in a round brilliant pattern are considered as best preferences in the aspects of "saleability," visual optics and insurability. Other than these features, diamonds that are round brilliant in cut are also appreciated for their versatility to suit almost all types of jewelry setting. Hence, it isn't surprising to know that about 75 percent of diamond jewelry sales are accounted to this type of cut.

When scouting for loose diamonds to be used for customized jewelry pieces, it is advised to opt for pieces that are round brilliant in cut. With the outlined characteristics of such cut, you could definitely maximize not only the extrinsic features of your diamonds but also its saleability and insurability. Nonetheless, as it is truly versatile, it will not be a trouble anymore to find the right setting to use for your jewelry. Simply, diamonds that are round brilliant in cut will surely give you a run for your money.

If you are looking for diamonds, you may want to consider loose diamonds, which would give you the option to choose your desired setting for your fine diamond rings. However, to further maximize the value of these loose sparklers, pick the ones that have round brilliant cut. This cut is noted for its ability to exemplify the greatest brilliance and fire in diamonds.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Friday, May 28, 2010

Diamond Ring: The Best Gift To Give

As the old adage goes, diamonds are a girl's best friend. Every woman would love to have a pair or two of this precious stone in their possession. This is because it is considered as the ultimate gemstone and the hardest substance that nature is able to produce. It is also perceived as the best stone to be mounted in any jewelry piece.

It is noteworthy that the use of diamonds as jewelries has been around for centuries. However, it has been identified that there is a significant increase in the use of these gems within the past decades. Other than being a representation of fame and power, the use of diamond is not limited to jewelry making. It has also benefited many industries, generating large amounts of profits as it can be applied for cutting tools, a means to transmit sounds, various optical applications, and as a special coating for airplane cockpit windows.

Although such precious stone have various uses, it cannot be denied that it remains as the main ingredient for making any jewelry appear elegant and truly expensive. Many people are now purchasing diamonds and jewelries with these stones because they are good investments. The investment usefulness of these jewelries are associated with their increasing worth in the market. Similarly, they are also important heirloom pieces that can be passed on from one family member to the other.

Aside from their monetary value, these precious stones are also priceless gifts during important celebrations. For instance, diamond encrusted rings are popular engagement gifts as they are not only exquisite but also represents the sincerity of the person who gave such gift. As an engagement is one of the most important traditions for many cultures, it is just logical for a man to give the woman he is about to marry a band that will reveal his true emotions. Adding value to these engagement bands are their physical durability that gives them their timelessness.

Prior to purchasing such diamond mounted rings however, it is important to ensure that you are buying a high-quality diamond and not just those that can be bought anywhere. There are many cases when unknowing buyers often take a diamond for a cubic zirconium and other similar looking stones. By taking this into consideration, it is always best to buy in reputable stores to ensure your that what you are paying is the real ones. It is also noteworthy that one should know that the value of a diamond is based from its 4Cs""color, clarity, cut and carat.

With all the fake ones streaming in the market, it is helpful to know what you are about to get when you purchase a diamond ring. The selection of diamond bands in the market is endless and it pays to have the patience to know everything about this stone. At the end of the day, having the right band would represent the purity of your vows for each other. As such, it is imperative to embark on something that will remind you of that long and lasting union.

Many people now prefer buying diamonds because they are good investments, as their value increases over time. It is also common to see such stones in jewelries, usually in rings, because they basically make any object valuable. A diamond ring, for instance, has become a popular engagement piece as it represents a relationship's longevity and everlasting love. Likewise, diamond jewelries have also been used as heirlooms to maintain the value of close family ties from generation to generation.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Engagement Rings And Other Gift Options For Diamonds

Buy diamonds not for engagement rings or wedding rings, but for the other milestones in your life too. You can get them as business gifts for informal meet ups or celebrations. Buy them for family members on their birthdays, holidays or family reunions. Buy diamond earrings and loose diamonds if rings aren't viable. You can find a diamond gift that fits any circumstance.

Seek engagement rings in a diversity of shapes, sizes, cleanliness, fluorescence and light performance. Diamonds also vary and are rated by the four c's: clarity, carat, color and cut. If you are unknowledgeable regarding diamonds, you can still tell their variances in shape and design. Nonetheless, you may still have to study some salient details regarding diamonds to properly recognize how to value them.

Whether getting engagement rings, diamond earrings or loose diamonds, get a proper education on diamonds. That way you obtain a greater comprehension of how much value the gift you are getting actually has. Not only in terms of the plain cost, but also the speculative value afforded by the diamonds. But intelligently and get a gift in proportionate value to your gift recipient, whether they be a childhood friend, a business investor, or a prospective life partner.

A lot of the factors required are unclear if lacking the required knowledge. The reality is, although there are separate gemological associations, valuing diamonds depends on the person or organization doing it. There are also disparate grade systems utilized to rank and price diamonds. You may be buying diamond earrings worth more than loose diamonds, although they may appear to be the same size.

There are several particulars you need to find out about this instant in terms of grading diamonds. For one, their weight affects their cost greater than the quality of their cut. Secondly, diamonds get a lot of value when it goes through cutting. Your diamond earrings are likely less than half their original size. But since cutting brings out their fire and brilliance, it raises their value.

Grading and pricing systems aside, there is no way you could call one diamond the greatest diamond. The Hope diamond, Oppenheimer diamond and Darya-I-Nur are no more or less great than your parent's engagement rings, or any loose diamonds available in market now. The reason for this is that every diamond is built to be special. The greatest diamond gift does not cost the most, but is best suited to your needs.

Get diamonds not just as engagement rings or wedding rings, but also for other occasions. You can get them as business gifts for informal meet ups or celebrations. Get them for family members on their birthdays, holidays or family reunions. Get diamond earrings and loose diamonds for loved ones who don't prefer rings. There is a diamond gift to match every occasion.

Diamonds: Your Guide In Buying These Precious Stones

While there are plenty of ways to express and show our sincere and purest form of love to our special someone, giving her a ring can definitely mean something more special. In choosing the ring that we want to use to surprise our loved one, we need to make it as special and memorable as possible. There could never be a greater gift to give to your special someone or your loved one than a diamond ring. Diamonds are eternal pieces of gem making them a perfect symbol of never-ending and enduring love.

Diamonds are the best choices when it comes to choosing the ring for your marriage proposal. These astonishing pieces of jewelry can definitely make your loved one ecstatic and even more surprised. Furthermore, these precious gemstones can endure the wear and tear of even the most extreme conditions making it a wonderful symbol for your unparalleled and everlasting love. Even after for so long, these rings will definitely remain as exquisite and as glamorous as it was when you first bought it.

However, the thought of popping out a ring and asking our special someone to marry us might get us too excited in buying a ring straight away. Still, we have to be mindful of several important factors before we jump into our nearest jewelry store.These precious gemstones are no cheap pieces of stones.That is why in deciding on the ring we have to keep in mind several factors to be certain that we will get the best ring for her.Also, since these rings are no cheap pieces of jewelry, we have to make sure that we will be able to get the most out of the money we would invest for these exclusive pieces of jewelry.

Diamonds
are classified and graded according to their cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's. This grading system was first used by the Gemological Institute of America otherwise known as GIA in 1931 and is now widely employed and accepted as the standard grading system for these gemstones.

In deciding on the perfect ring, the first thing that we should look at is the cut.This criterion refers to the shape of the stone and how well it was cut.Normally, the overall cutting craftsmanship and shape are being graded by the GIA whether a diamond stone is off-round or perfectly round and if the cuts are excellent enough.

Next thing to consider is the carat weight. The carat term for weight measurement of these gemstones was actually derived from a dry fruit that contains seeds that are called carob, whose seeds' actual weight is used to measure the weight of common gemstones. The present standard used internationally has a 5-carat diamond stone equivalent to a gram.

Color is also a vital feature of these precious gemstones that you should be familiar with. Among the most sought-after colors of these precious gemstones are those which show apparent tint or yellow, which are also the more affordable varieties.Usually, the rarer the color of the diamond, the more expensive it is. Among the rare and more expensive colors of these precious stones include pink, blue, or green.

The last characteristic you should keep in mind is the stone's clarity.Clarity is used by many jewelers as a gauge to which the stone's impurities are measured.Clarity is used to determine either the lack or the presence of imperfections of the diamond stone whether it is internal or external. Rare classes of these gemstones do not usually have these impurities and those which are very rare are usually flawless.

In choosing the diamond ring we want to buy we have to consider these four factors namely cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's; so as to make sure that we will be getting our money's worth. Diamonds are expensive. That is why in deciding on the rings we want to buy, we have to be mindful of these factors to make sure that we will get the best ring for our special someone.

Engagement Rings: How To Find Quality Diamond Rings

Diamonds can last a lifetime.Loose diamonds are admired for their astonishing and compelling beauty. These precious gems can stay as elegant as ever even after a long time. It has become a universal belief in almost all cultures across the world that diamonds are perfect for engagement rings since these gems epitomize eternity. Furthermore, aside from being a symbol of eternal love, diamond rings are status symbols. What made them so special is their staggering cost and the value they currently hold, which makes diamonds a luxury for many people.

Not too many people have the financial capacity to afford diamond rings. This one big reason why diamond engagement rings are great for surprising your soon to be wife and loved ones.As a symbol of your undying and unparalleled love, it would be a good idea if you would surprise your bride to be with a diamond engagement ring. A diamond engagement ring can definitely make your marriage proposal a more special and unforgettable one, both for you and your bride to be.

However, before you move on with your plan of purchasing a diamond ring for your proposal, it is recommended that you educate yourself first with what to look for in diamond jewelry. Since diamonds are highly-priced commodities; it is very helpful if you will acquaint yourself with the ways on how to find quality diamonds. Getting the essential education and guidance in finding the right type of diamond jewelry can help you make best use of the huge amount of money you are about to spend. Moreover, it can help you determine the right kind of diamond jewelry that can effectively fit your bride's style and preference.

Buying a diamond ring to surprise your bride to be is a task specially made for you.In choosing a diamond engagement ring, it is vital to remember several factors such as the ring size, the style and the type of metal.The first thing to look for is the ring size so as to make sure that your effort and the money you spent will not go into waste. You have to be sure that the diamond ring you are about to purchase can fit perfectly into the ring finger of your bride to be.In doing this, you have to consider the ways on how to determine the ring size of your future wife or you can just tell the jeweler about her body type and size.

The style of the ring is also crucial in finding the right type of diamond jewelry. Diamond rings can be purchased in varying cuts, styles and colors. Classic solitaire diamonds are the most popular while colored diamonds are among the trendiest and unique. The tiffany style is recommended for a classic look while the invisible style can imbibe a more modern and current appeal.In addition, the personality of your bride to be must be your basis in choosing a ring.It would also be perfect if the diamond is certified by diamond grading experts.

One of the crucial things to bear in mind in buying a diamond ring is the type of metal present.You can choose from a wide selection of metals available in the market such as yellow, white gold and platinum. In choosing the metal type of the ring, you have to be cautious of your budget and the type of diamond that will be accompanied by the metal.White gold and platinum metals are ideal for colored diamonds.

Diamonds are symbols of an eternal love which makes them fit perfectly in engagement rings. Diamond rings including loose diamonds are status symbols for many people and a symbol of eternity, which makes them special. Diamond engagement rings are perfect for surprising a loved one and for marriage proposals. In choosing a diamond engagement ring, it is important to consider several factors such as the ring size, the style, the type of metal and the required certifications.

The Many Uses Of Diamonds

As it has been said, diamonds are a girl's best friend. Every woman would like to get a hold of this precious gem. Perhaps the high value given to such stone can be credited to its timeless beauty and appeal. It is also perceived as the best stone to be mounted in any jewelry piece.

It is noteworthy that the use of diamonds as jewelries has been around for centuries. Yet, more than any point in history, the use of such gems today have profoundly increased. Aside from being a proof of status for the elites, the use of such gem has also been more widespread than simply as jewelries. It has also been used as cutting tools, a means to transmit sounds, varying optical applications and special coating for airplane cockpit windows.

Given that these precious stones have varying uses, it still remains a fact that they are widely used in jewelry making. Many people are now purchasing diamonds and jewelries with these stones because they are good investments. Most, if not all, of these diamond encrusted jewelries increase in value overtime due to the presence of such stones. They also serve as important pieces of heirloom that can be passed from one generation to the other.

Investment worth aside, these gemstones are also timeless keepsakes during important occasions. For instance, during engagements diamond encrusted rings are the most common gifts that a woman can receive from her man. As an engagement is one of the most important traditions for many cultures, it is just logical for a man to give the woman he is about to marry a band that will reveal his true emotions. What adds to the worth of these diamond encrusted bands are their physical durability that could simply last for a lifetime.

Before buying a diamond encrusted ring, it is imperative to know that what you are getting is the real ones and not a fake. A diamond can be mistaken with cubic zirconiums and other similar looking stones, making it hard to buy such gem if you have no background about it. It is always best to buy in reputable stores so that you would be ensuring that the price you are paying is truly that jewelry's worth It is also noteworthy that one should know that the value of a diamond is based from its 4Cs""color, clarity, cut and carat.

So, before buying that diamond ring, a little research can be truly helpful to know whether you are getting the right one or not. Diamond bands comes in different ranges in the market, therefore it would be useful to have the knowledge about the product you are interested in. It is best to have the authentic one because it will represent your vow of love and permanence. Hence, it is important to get a hold of something real that will remind you in the long run of that long and lasting oneness.

Diamonds are considered as the most precious stones in the world. They are usually mounted in jewelries such as rings and necklaces to make these pieces more elegant and expensive. Today, it is can be observed that a diamond ring is the most common keepsake during engagements. Such preference lays on the fact that such band, aside from being expensive, is physically durable that makes it last for a lifetime.