Become a diamond expert witd our Diamond Education, or go to a specific subject:

 

So, what does this mean to you? When you are in the market for a high quality diamond -- whether loose or mounted -- the diamond’s marking for each of these aspects can significantly affect the price you pay for it.

The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance. there is no single measurement of a diamond that defines its cut, but rather a collection of measurements and observations that determine the relationship between a diamond's light performance, dimensions and finish. Most gemologists consider cut the most important diamond characteristic because even if a diamond has perfect color and clarity, a diamond witd a poor cut will have dulled brilliance.

The width and depth can have an effect on how light travels witdin the diamond, and how it exits in the form of brilliance.

Too Shallow: Light is lost out the bottom causing the diamond to lose brilliance.

Too Deep: Light escapes out the sides causing the diamond to appear dark and dull.

Determining a diamond's cut grade, however, goes beyond simple measurements of width and depth. Using an optical measuring device, a tdree-dimensional model is created to determine the diamond's proportions and angles.

 

Acting as a prism, a diamond can divide light into a spectrum of colors and reflect this light as colorful flashes called fire. Just as when looking tdrough colored glass, color in a diamond will act as a filter, and will diminish the spectrum of color emitted. the less color in a diamond, the more colorful the fire, and the better the color grade.

Diamonds that are absolutely clear are the most sought-after and therefore the most expensive. But many diamonds have inclusions — scratches, trace minerals or other tiny characteristics that can detract from the pure beauty of the diamond. The GIA and AGSL use a detailed system of rules and standards to summarize the number, location, size, and type of inclusions present in a diamond.

Diamonds are measured in terms of weight, not size. The heavier the diamond, the greater the carat weight. The name "carat" is derived from the carob seed. These seeds are remarkably consistent in weight and size and so were the favored scale balances in ancient markets. Carat weight should not be confused with "karat," the term used to describe gold’s fineness or purity. A gem carat equals 200 milligrams, and there are 142 carats to every ounce. A carat is composed of one hundred points. Jewelers evaluate a diamond’s carat weight by using an exceptionally sensitive metric scale that measures weight in points. So, a 1/4 carat diamond is also called a 25 point diamond. Because large diamonds are extremely rare -- and diamonds over one carat in size are becoming increasingly so -- every tiny increase in weight can result in a big increase in market value. Generally speaking, the larger the diamond, the higher the price. Even a large diamond that has so-so color and clarity will cost more than a smaller but finer diamond, simply because the larger ones are scarce.

In the jewellery industry, the word "cut" usually brings to mind the shape or the outline of a diamond’s front. The seven most popular and fashionable shapes are the round brilliant, marquise, pear, emerald, oval, princess, and heart.

 

Studs Stud earrings are a classic that everybody wants. Whether you are wearing jeans or a beautiful evening gown, studs are the perfect match every time. Because they're small, stud earrings are easy to wear. They go as easily with a cocktail dress as they do with jeans. You'll find a variety of styles in Gemstone Earrings.

Hoops While hugging the ear, these are the most comfortable to wear while using the phone. Hoops have become very popular because of the amount of sparkle given off for a lower cost due to sparkling gemstone & diamonds.

Dangle Earrings The brilliant sparkle of gemstone & diamonds are showcased with every movement of the head. The dangle earrings can range from simple to elaborately elegant. Also referred to as drop earrings.

Earrings as a Gift
Studs are the perfect gift for an important occasion. If she is more fashionable and follows the trends, give her studs.

Even if she has several pairs of earrings already, she'll love to add a pair of beautiful hoop earrings to her rotation. Most women prefer either the white metals or yellow gold, so look to her other jewellery to see what metal she prefers. If studs and hoops are too predictable, sterling silver earrings are available in a variety of fashionable styles.

More Gemstone Earrings
Gemstone stud earrings are a classic and can accessorize all kinds of attire- be it formal, professional or casual.

What does she like?
Finding out what she likes shouldn't be too hard. If she hasn't already spoken to you about it, she's surely to have mentioned it to her closest friends. Otherwise, you can always ask her mother - you're sure to score some points by letting your future mother-in-law in on the big surprise first. If all else fails, just take a look at the rest of her jewellery and you should at least be able to tell if she prefers yellow gold or white gold and start from there.

Choose a quality jeweler
In making such an important purchase, it's important that you choose the right jeweler who will help you find exactly what you want and deliver it on time

Set your budget
When setting your budget, keep in mind that you are purchasing both a setting and a center stone. Before you settle on a specific amount to spend, take some time to learn what qualities you're looking for in both a diamond and a setting. Regardless of what style engagement ring you choose, it should be of the best possible quality available in your price range.

Choosing the right diamond
Like any important purchase, you should understand what you're buying before choosing a diamond. Our Education center includes all the information you'll need to make a confident, informed decision. Start by choosing a diamond shape that best fits her style. Learning about the Four Cs ( cut , color , clarity and carat weight) will help you determine which qualities are most important to you and her. Last but not least, you'll have to settle on a size for your diamond. Bigger is not always better, especially when it comes to diamonds. Only once you know what qualities are important to you will you be able to narrow down your search for that perfect diamond.

Choose Your Setting
There's more than just the diamond when purchasing a diamond ring. You will also have to decide how you want the diamonds to be set with your ring.

This, like the shape of the stone itself is purely a matter of personal style. In addition to the style, the metal that the setting itself is crafted from is an important consideration. Here, we present several of the most popular setting styles, along with brief descriptions of what makes each one special.

 

• Read more about Gold...

• Read more about Platinum...

• Read more about Silver...

Gold's purity is measured in karats. The term "karat" harks back to the ancient bazaars where "carob" beans were used to weigh precious metals. 24 karat is pure gold, but its purity means it is more expensive and less durable than gold that is alloyed with other metals. Different alloys are used in jewellery for greater strength, durability and color range.

The karatage of the jewellery will tell you what percentage of gold it contains: 24 karat is 100 percent, 18 karat is 75 percent, and 14 karat is 58 percent gold. When comparing gold jewellery, the higher the number of karats, the greater the value.

Europeans have long embraced 18-karat gold as their metal of choice, and with good reason. Its rich yellow color, luxurious look and feel have an extraordinarily sensual appeal; many European women treat 18-karat gold like a second skin, even wearing it to the beach!

Today, women in the U.S. and around the globe are "trading up" and treating themselves to the beauty and opulence of 18-karat gold.

When buying gold jewellery, always look for the karat mark. All other things being equal, the higher the karat, the more expensive the piece. In the United States, 14-karat gold, or 583 parts pure gold, is the most common degree of fineness. Nothing less than 10 karats can legally be marked or sold as gold jewellery in the U.S. However, lower karatages, such as 8-karat gold and 9-karat gold, are popular in other countries.

18-karat gold is 18/24ths, or three-quarters pure gold, and jewellery of this fineness is marked 18k or 750, the European designation meaning 75% gold.

Always look for the karat mark or "k" that appears on the back of the piece. By U.S. law, if a karat mark appears you should also see the manufacturer's trademark to assure you that the karat marking is accurate. The country of origin should also appear.

In addition to the karat mark, every piece of gold jewellery should be stamped with a hallmark or trademark of its maker, and sometimes its country of origin. These designations assure you that you are buying genuine karat gold jewellery. Heavier pieces contain more gold.

Gold Filled, also called Gold Overlay, refers to a layer of at least 10-karat gold that has been permanently bonded by heat and pressure to one or more surfaces of the support metal, then rolled or drawn to a prescribed thickness. The karat gold must be at least 1/ 10 of the total weight.

Gold Plate means that a layer of plating of 10-karat gold or better has been bonded to a base metal. The karat gold content may be less than 1/20, but it must be properly identified by weight in terms of total metal content.

Gold Leaf is just gold plating that's been pounded and applied by hand.

Yellow gold is alloyed with silver and copper. It is the most frequently used type of gold there is. Malleable, ductile, and generally non-corrosive, it has a high melting point and is not susceptible to compression.

White gold is alloyed with a large percentage of silver, or a selection of other white metals. The percentage of gold naturally varies, according to the amount of other metal used. White gold is highly reflective and not subject to tarnish. The ancient term for it was Electrum. Its use predates that of Palladium and Platinum.

Rose gold is alloyed with copper, and perhaps silver. The proportions are about one part of copper to three parts of 24-karat gold.

Gold pricing is based on a number of factors, including karatage, gram weight, design and craftsmanship. The karatage and gram weight tell you how much gold is in a piece, but don't rely on these alone to determine price. Remember, a price based solely on gram weight does not reflect the work that has gone into the piece.

Other important factors to consider are the jewellery's construction and design. The techniques of construction can make a piece more durable and flexible for added comfort. A well-made piece in a classic design will give you years of wear and enjoyment and, if cared for properly, will last a lifetime. Unique design, intricate details, gemstones or a special clasp may add to the price.

Gold jewellery is mainly produced by machine. Any additional hand finishing or textural interest raises the cost. Similar looking pieces may have vastly different price tags. This is because different pieces may have specific characteristics that make them unique. So look carefully to notice any differences and similarities. Often, it's these small details that give you pleasure through the years that you enjoy a piece of jewellery, and ensure that your children will also enjoy it.

Gold is durable, sturdy, dependable, and makes an ideal setting for your precious diamond jewellery. However, to get a lifetime of enjoyment from your jewellery, be sure to keep it clean and safe.

Do not wear jewellery during rough work or when handling harsh chemicals.

Store it in a fabric-lined box away from other pieces to preserve it from getting scratched.

Finally, check the diamond settings periodically for any damage to the gold prongs or bezels. If you see a loose prong, or if the setting looks out of line, bring it to a professional jeweler for repair at once.

Platinum, like gold, has a long and distinguished history. Its use began in antiquity and it has undergone a resurgence in popularity over the last 200 years. Platinum was held in high esteem during early Egyptian times. Native people in South and Central America worked it as early as 100 B.C.

Spanish conquistadors discovered platinum artifacts among the gold they were seeking when they came to the new world. They named the curious metal "platina," or "little silver." They also considered it worthless, and discarded it. Platinum didn't reach Europe until the 18th century, but then it caught on in a big way. King Louis XVI elevated it by terming it "the metal of kings."

For centuries, the only large amounts of platinum outside of South America were found in Russian mines. Nowadays, platinum is far more valuable than gold. Platinum's initial uses were probably limited by its hardness and its very high melting point. The early forging and casting techniques made it quite a difficult metal to work with.

During the latter part of the 19th century, and the first half of the 20th, platinum was the premier metal for all-important jewellery. Platinum dominated the world of jewellery design during the Edwardian era, and the Art Deco period well into the 1930s. It all came to an abrupt end in World War II, when platinum was declared a strategic metal and its use banned for all non-military purposes.

The appeal of platinum is in its appearance. Its white luster is unique. It is also the strongest precious metal used in jewellery, and is almost twice as heavy as 14-karat gold. This weight is one of platinum's strongest selling points, because it gives "heft" to fine jewellery, which people naturally equate with value.

In recent years platinum has rapidly grown in popularity. It's become the new choice for many diamond engagement rings because its luster brings out the brilliance of diamonds far better than gold.

Many fashion consultants agree that platinum (and white gold) is more compatible with fairer skin tones. The Japanese seem to be listening -- almost 85% of platinum jewellery produced every year is purchased by Japanese consumers

Despite its growing popularity, platinum remains one of the world's rare metals. The annual worldwide production of platinum amounts to some 160 tons, compared to about 1,500 tons of gold. It can be found in just a handful of regions of the world. The mining and refining processes are both arduous and time-consuming. For example, in order to extract a single ounce of platinum, about 10 tons of ore need to be mined. After that, the refining process takes a full five months.

Platinum in jewellery is actually an alloyed group of six heavy metals, including platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium. These other metals are so similar to platinum in weight and chemistry that most were not even distinguished from each other until early in the nineteenth century.

Today, it is often alloyed with copper and titanium. It's the only precious metal used in fine jewellery that is 90% to 95% pure, largely hypoallergenic, and tarnish-resistant. Look for platinum jewellery marked 900Pt, 950 Plat, or Plat.

One final word about precious metals: Like gold, platinum is durable, sturdy and dependable, making it an ideal setting for your precious diamond jewellery. However, to get a lifetime of enjoyment from your jewellery, be sure to keep it clean and safe.

Do not wear platinum jewellery during rough work or when handling harsh chemicals.

Store it in a fabric-lined box away from other pieces so it does not get scratched.

Finally, check any diamond settings periodically for possible damage to prongs or bezels. If you see a loose prong, or if the setting looks out of line, immediately bring it to a professional for repair.

Silver is one of the first metals to be used by humans. It may have been the first metal smelted from ore. The art of silver working dates back to the ancient Byzantine, Phoenician and Egyptian empires, where silver was forged into domestic utensils, jewellery, buttons, weapons, horse trappings, boxes, and other articles.

Unfortunately, silver's high utility meant that items were often melted down and re-forged into new items. Consequently, much ancient and early European silverwork has been lost forever. The silver tradition was carried over to colonial America, where it co-existed with the centuries-old hand-hammered craft traditions of the North and South American natives.

The mines in Mexico and Peru are still the highest-producing ones in the world, and the methods of silver jewellery making among native peoples remains largely unchanged today. The niche of silver making in Western society has been a bit more dynamic. Silver's value as a jewellery and utensil metal made it an early target for ambitious miners, and the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Nevada in 1859 created a silver rush that rivaled the Gold Rush.

In recent years, silver has lost much of its value as a reserve metal and a traded commodity. However, its low price often means it acts as a leading metal in jewellery fashion - allowing silver craftsmen freedom to experiment with new and innovative designs, which are later duplicated in more expensive gold and platinum, once the "style" is safely established.

Silver is popular among younger people attempting a less-formal look in their accessorizing, and among those who simply find gold and platinum too old-world and ostentatious.

Silver is also the brightest reflector of any metal (except for liquid mercury) and can be polished to a high sheen that even platinum can't achieve. In fact, the chemical symbol for silver, Ag, is derived from the Latin, argentum, meaning "white and shining."

The finish on silver can be high polished, matte or brushed (rubbed with an abrasive), satin (a smoother matte), sandblasted (rough matte), oxidized (chemically blackened), or antiqued (chemically "aged"). Silver is said to have a "patina," a worn- looking finish that is achieved through frequent use and handling, and is particular to the wearer's skin chemistry.

In its pure form silver is almost as soft as gold, and therefore is usually alloyed with copper for strength. Karatage is not marked because, legally, anything called "silver" or "sterling silver" is 92.5% pure.

Sometimes silver from south of the border is designated "Mexican silver," which runs anywhere from 90% to 99% pure. Purity is really not something to worry about with silver.

Fine Silver in its natural state, 999/1000 pure, is too soft an element for practical jewellery. To make it workable, an alloy such as copper is added. Here are the main silver alloys:

Sterling Silver: A mixture of 92.5 % pure silver (925 parts) and 7.5 % metal alloy.

Silver Plating: Also known as silver plated or silver coated. A base metal, usually nickel silver or brass, is coated with a layer of pure silver by a process called electroplating.

Vermeil: Sterling silver electroplated with at least 100 millionths of an inch of karat gold

German Silver or Nickel Silver: A silver-white alloy consisting of copper, zinc and nickel.

Coin Silver: 90% (900 parts) pure silver and 10% (100 parts) metal alloy. A process of melting down coins done in the 19th century, and mostly discarded today.

Silver is the queen of metals: gleaming and elegant, cool to the eye, sensuous to the touch. Silver jewellery is a classic gift that remains close to a woman's heart. More than merely decorative, it often carries with it the appeal of a tender sentiment or a lovely memory. And it possesses a sophistication that every woman understands.

However, in selecting silver jewellery for herself, a woman should not forget that men place a high value on silver themselves. For that special man the perfect gift in silver might be a handsome pair of sterling silver cuff links, a tie bar, an I.D. bracelet, or even a signet ring. For a man, silver is a gift of distinction.

Make sure there are no visible blemishes or imperfections on the piece. Check to make certain that fasteners, clasps and catches work properly and are secure. Check pin backs and earring posts for strength and durability. Lay silver chains flat to make certain their links don't kink or bend.

Acquiring fine silver is one thing. Keeping it bright and beautiful is another. However, there's no mystery to caring for your fine silver jewellery. Just follow these tips:

Store your silver in a cool, dry place that is preferably airtight, to avoid oxidation. Avoid direct overexposure to artificial light or sunlight for long periods. Don't store directly on wood, which often contains acids that can affect silver's surface.

Store items in a tarnish-proof cloth, or in drawers with tarnish-resistant strips. Store each item individually, either in its own soft pouch or in a separate compartment of your jewellery box. Do not store silver loose in drawers; scratches will occur if you toss your jewellery into a compartment or allow pieces to rub against each other.

If a piece of silver jewellery becomes tarnished, use a paste, liquid polish or a treated polishing cloth to restore its original luster. Never put rubber bands or plastic directly against the surface of your silver.

Not to wear diamond jewellery while doing rough work. Even though diamond is one of the hardest materials in nature, a sharp, sudden blow can still chip it.

Chlorine can damage and discolour your diamond jewellery. Keep your diamond away from chlorine bleach or other household chemicals. You should also remove your diamond jewellery before entering a chlorinated pool or hot tub.

Clean your diamonds regularly using commercial jewellery cleaner, a mix of ammonia and water, or a mild detergent. Dip the jewellery into the solution and use a soft brush to wipe dust or dirt from under the setting.

Avoid touching your clean diamonds with your fingers. Handle clean jewellery by its edges.

Most of the jewellery is made of Gold. It also comes in various Karats but the procedure to clean it remains the same.

Platinum, the most durable metal, not easily tarnishes and discolours due to chlorine and other chemicals. However, despite its durability, platinum jewellery needs proper care.

There are some general care and cleaning rules that apply to all coloured gemstone jewellery.

• Use of Pearls Jewellery before any cosmetic is not advisable. Wipe it with soft damp cloth after usage.

• You can also wash your pearl jewellery with mild soap and water but avoid chemicals or any kind solvent. These substances can damage   your pearls.

• Do not toss your pearl jewellery carelessly into a purse, bag or jewel box.

• A pearl's surface is soft and can be scratched by hard metal edges or by harder gemstones of other jewellery pieces.

If worn regularly, needs a periodic cleaning to remove the film caused by cosmetics, soap, and skin oil. Diamonds, for example, have an affinity for grease and literally collect oils in dishwater. Remove rings before routine household chores and clean rings regularly.

Gold is a soft metal; any contact with another hard substance can make its luster dull. Always store your jewellery safely. Wrap it in soft cloth, so it does not scratch or tangle.

There is no harm in wearing jewellery while having a bath but it leaves your gold dull due to the thing film because of ordinary soap and water. It is advisable to keep your jewellery away from make-ups, moisture perfumes, hair spray etc. Wash your hands and after completing your make-up and then put on your jewellery.

"Prongs" which holds the diamond in all kind of jewellery are very small in size. Due to this any heavy physical work, which may lead to contact with any hard substance, can make your diamonds come off. So it is advisable not to wear your jewellery while doing housework or any abrasive object could damage its surface.

Activity that might subject a gemstone to sharp blows such as gardening, working with hand tools, or playing sports may also damages a gemstone. Diamonds are also susceptible to damage from an impact, which might cause them to chip or crack. Put jewellery on after you apply hair spray or cosmetics. Chemicals present in either may cause damage, especially to cultured pearls. Wipe your pearls with a soft flannel cloth after each wearing to remove your skin's oils and salts.

• A home solution of one part mild detergent, one part household ammonia, and three parts water is also effective for many jewellery   cleaning needs. Dry the jewellery with a lint-free towel.

• This method of cleaning is especially desirable for alexandrite, amethyst, andalusite, aquamarine, citrine, diamond, garnet, iolite, moonstone,   ruby, sapphire, spinel, tanzanite, topaz, tourmaline, and zircon.

Home ultrasonic cleaners are best used for karat gold jewellery without gemstones. The ultrasonic may also be suitable for some diamond-set jewellery. Intensive vibrations may loosen stones, so a professional annual cleaning and security check is important. DO NOT use the home ultrasonic for amber, coral, emerald, kunzite, lapis lazuli, opal, pearl, ruby, turquoise, or tanzanite.

We recommend that your fine jewellery be examined and cleaned once every 6 months.

• Protect your jewellery when it is not being worn by separating it from other jewellery, using a separate compartment in your jewellery box.   Gems and gem quality items, improperly stored, can damage each other. Diamonds, for example, may scratch rubies, sapphires, or   emeralds, and other certain situations, each other. To be on the safe side, be sure that gemstones and jewellery do not touch.

• Because of their softness, cultured pearls need special care. Clean and dry them prior to storing your pearls in a special chamois pouch   safe from potential harm.

• Rings worn should be periodically cleaned to remove the film caused by the use of soap, cosmetics, hair spray etc. Remove rings before   routine household chores and clean rings regularly. Activity which might subject a gemstone to sharp blows-such as gardening, working   with hand tools, or playing sports-may also damage a gemstone.

• Diamonds are also susceptible to damage from an impact, which might cause them to chip or crack.

• Put jewellery on after you apply hair spray or cosmetics.

In most cases, routine home care of your fine jewellery supplemented with periodic care means a lifetime of pleasurable wear. Regular cleaning of your gemstones keeps them shining and beautiful.

A mild soap and water solution used with a soft brush is effective for many home jewellery care needs. Even the mild chemicals of commercial jewellery cleaning products may damage certain gems. Although soap and water is the best choice for most gems and jewellery, do not use soap and water with amber, coral, emerald, jade, kunzite, lapis lazuli, opal, pearl, or turquoise. Never use anything abrasive such as toothpaste to clean your jewellery.