Archive

Archive for July, 2009

Diamonds, Engagement Rings And Choices

July 8th, 2009 George Baycan Comments off
by George Baycan

Most people are aware that there are basically four components of buying diamonds for engagement rings or other types of jewelry. These four components include the diamond's color, cut, clarity and carat. Although this seems to be common knowledge, most people really don't know what these four terms refer to in a diamond. Since the diamond is the central focus on engagement rings, learning a bit about diamond grading is important.

Carat, a weight measurement equal to 0.2 grams, is perhaps the easiest diamond grade to understand. Engagement ring settings that feature solitaire diamonds often have very large carat stones because they are central to the ring. However the diamond should also be a perfect as possible since any flaws will be very noticeable.

Color actually refers to the lack of color within a diamond. For most engagement rings a G grade will mean that any slight colorations of the diamond are basically undetectable to the eye and the diamond will appear to be completely clear and colorless. Other options include a colored diamond or even diamond chips that have a very slight coloration of yellow. If the setting and band are gold, a very slight yellow coloration is often undetectable and can allow you to purchase a larger diamond for the same amount of money.

Diamonds for engagement rings should be free from external or internal marks, blemishes or bubble type formations. Inclusions inside the diamond will impact on reflection of light and damages to the surface will likewise detract from the appearance of the gem.

The larger and more central the diamond is in the setting the better quality it should be with regards to at least cut, color and clarity. Every diamond in engagement ring settings or other jewelry is going to have some slight flaw, but the larger the stone size the more important a flawless appearance will be.

Engagement rings that feature diamonds with a good cut are going to be more reflective and brilliant than those with a poor cut. Cut is not the same as the shape, rather it refers to the facets and if they are in the right location within the diamond to reflect the light through the gem. Cut is very important in larger, solitaire diamonds and is perhaps the most important factor in choosing the right stone for the setting.

Antique engagement rings and new rings are a great way to start trying out your diamond grading understanding. Older rings often feature very traditional shapes that are easier to work with. Once you get the hang of it you can then start looking at different settings or stick with traditional types of engagement rings.

Engagement rings that feature the best possible cut, color, clarity and carat to fit your budget are really the best option. Many jewelers can help maximize the beauty your choices in engagement rings by changing the shape of the diamond to maximize the 4 c's given the style of ring you have selected.

About the Author:

Things to Know About Certified Loose Diamonds

July 7th, 2009 Anand Maheshwari Comments off
by Anand Maheshwari

The certified loose diamonds are the ones that have been specially tested, examined and graded by a group of independent and trained gemologists issuing a Diamond certificate. The diamond certificate serves to be a blueprint of the loose diamond that have been actually certified. The diamond certificate may even be known as the diamond dossier or diamond grade report. The certificate documents the exact weight and measurements of the loose diamonds along with the details of their quality and cut. The certified loose diamond precisely point all the great characteristics of a stone, any flaws and inclusions.

The certified loose diamond offers consumer with security, confidence and raises comfort level when making the decision on what type of a loose diamond to buy. Before buying the loose diamond, one should expect reviewing the copy of the diamond certificate as this guarantees the value and quality of those loose diamonds. The certified loose diamonds help offer the consumer some confidence that they are making a wise purchase. While shopping for these loose diamonds, it is crucial that one buys the certified diamonds. One can compare the certified loose diamond with particular quality and weight with other diamonds of same characteristics to know which certified diamonds are better.

The diamond certificate highlights the loose diamond's characteristics including the carat, clarity, cut and color, which are verified specially by the independent company having no clash of interest between the seller and the buyer. People looking forward to buy the wholesale certified loose diamond from the jewelry wholesalers need to educate themselves on topics linked with diamond industry including the diamond certification and appraisal.

Even though the terms 'certification' and 'appraisal' are used interchangeably, they are actually 2 different things, both being essential to determine the certified diamond's true market value. Unlike the loose tones, the diamond appraisal may be performed on the mounted stones. And unlike certification, appraisal is less objective and is based specially on possibilities and estimations. The jewelry wholesalers actually base all their selling cost on such a diamond appraisal.

On the other hand, certification is also called as the diamond grading report and this is used to define the loose diamonds in carat, color and clarity. The report is mainly prepared for the jewelry retailers, investors, wholesalers and collectors by the geologists who are experts in gemology sub field or the evaluation and study of the valuable gems and stones. So, before you actually purchase a diamond, you must insist on independent diamond certification from the accredited laboratory in order to support the additional claims about loose diamonds. In short, the certified loose diamonds serve as the proof of a diamond's value and identity.

Buying the certified diamonds will ensure that you are getting real value for the money spent.

About the Author:
Categories: Diamonds Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Engagement Rings Don’t Have To Break The Bank

July 4th, 2009 George Baycan Comments off
by George Baycan

Purchasing engagement rings has long been considered a test of just how much someone can afford. While it is always important to get the best possible ring, staying within a budget is important as well. Engagement rings that are beautiful, dazzling and brilliant don't have to cost a fortune if you maximize your understanding of diamonds.

The most expensive component of engagement rings is going to be the diamonds in the setting. Changing settings even a bit will allow you to perhaps select a bigger central diamond. This won't take away from the overall beauty of the ring as it will focus all the attention on the central diamond itself. These solitaire rings are beautiful, timeless and classic.

Rather than a really large solitaire diamond a group or design of smaller diamonds or even diamond chips can add beauty to engagement rings at a much lower price. This doesn't mean you have to cut total carat weight for the same money as smaller diamonds are more common and less expensive. Pave rings are very popular as both engagement or wedding band options.

Colored gemstones and precious gems such as green emeralds, blue sapphires and red rubies can really set off a smaller diamond. Engagement rings with other stones are very popular and can really maximize your purchasing potential.

The shape or cut of the diamond can also add visual dimensions that make a ring look larger. Engagement rings featuring the elongated shapes such as oval, pear, marquis or emerald cut are going to draw the eye down the length of the diamond, adding size and dimension.

It is important, whatever type of diamond you are buying, that you purchase the best color, clarity and cut possible, rather than just focusing in on the size of the diamond itself. The dazzle and sparkle of engagement rings is based on those factors, not the size of the diamond. Even a large diamond that is cloudy or flawed is not going to be as nice as a high quality smaller diamond, especially with diamonds in solitaire style round or Ascher cut engagement rings.

Often selecting a smaller diamond that is of a better cut and clarity provides more options for getting the best possible engagement rings within a set price range. Jewelers should be willing to take the time to explain the different aspects of selecting a diamond to ensure you get just the one you want.

Mixing and matching settings with loose diamonds is a wonderful option when looking at engagement rings. With this type of purchase you select the diamond separate from the setting, allowing maximum flexibility in designing many kinds of engagement rings

About the Author:

Selecting Perfect Engagement Rings

July 4th, 2009 George C.Baycan Comments off
by George C.Baycan

There are very few purchases as important to most people as the importance of choosing from the many different types of engagement rings on the market. These engagement rings symbolize love and a lifetime together, so they will need to be in keeping with the styles and preferences of both the groom and bride. Knowing what is out there with regards to types of engagement rings is an important first step.

Solitaire rings are very popular since they are striking and elegant but also match well with most wedding band styles. Typically these styles of engagement rings have larger sized diamonds, however with the right cut and type of diamond it is not the size but rather the brilliance and cut of the diamond that adds to the beauty of these elegant rings.

Princess cut engagement rings are a good match with solitaire rings if you want to try something different than the more traditional round cut. This cut is square in shape and has many different facets or angles within the cut that make light reflect, giving a dazzling appearance to the stone.

For narrower band engagement rings a small stone often makes a perfect match and tends to make the ring more understated in appearance. For women with small hands and fingers these more delicate rings are much more balanced in appearance. Smaller diamond of gemstones surrounding the ring can also enhance the sparkle of the center stone without adding a heavy or bulky appearance.

Selecting the right sized diamond for engagement rings is also important. There are some shapes that add size and dimension to even a smaller diamond, plus they can enhance longer hands and fingers. Long diamond shapes including the rectangular emerald cut, the marquis or pear shapes are very flattering.

Silver and gold metal choices are also important in the appearance of the band and the diamond for engagement rings. For traditional rings silver, gold and white gold are popular, but increasingly palladium, platinum and titanium are also becoming fashionable. Plain, flat or rounded bands are elegant looking and very traditional, however there are also interlocking wedding and engagement rings for a contemporary look.

Mixing and matching bands and diamonds is often the best way to select the perfect options for engagement rings. It is also important to know what particular style, cut or shape of ring or diamond that the bride-to-be likes. Talking about rings or looking at rings together is a great way to understand just what she is hoping for.

Remember that not all engagement rings and wedding rings are sold as a set. It is possible to combine different engagement rings with plain or ornate wedding bands to get just the look you want for you life together.

About the Author:

Engagement Rings Beyond The Traditional

July 3rd, 2009 shiran cohen Comments off
by George C.Baycan

Not everyone wants weddings, engagement rings and wedding bands to be traditional. Often just a small twist on an old classic can take engagement rings in a completely new direction, making them unique and original without straying too far from the traditional. Brides that want a slightly different look for engagement rings that match their personal taste and style have lots of options to consider.

Even just a few years ago most engagement rings were sold as sets, already including both the bands and the diamonds. Now there are more jewelers that offer diamond engagement rings that allow the buyer to select the diamond for the setting, making each ring one of a kind.

There are different types of diamonds on the market today. Although people typically think of diamonds as dazzlingly brilliant clear stones, there are also colored diamonds as well. Pink, brown, yellow and even blue or green diamonds are possible. Many of the colored or fancy diamonds are enhanced through laboratory processes while the true deep colored diamonds are very rare and very expensive.

The color of the diamond can also be enhanced by the particular cut that is used. Cuts that have several different facets or sides are more likely to reflect light into the center of the diamond, creating the movement of light through the stones on engagement rings. This naturally draws the eye as well as adds depth to the gem.

Since the color of the diamond in engagement rings can be enhanced by the reflection of light by the cut, selecting the right cut is important. One of the newer favorites in diamond cuts is the emerald cut. This is a more rectangular shape with squared off corners and longer stepped type facets that reflect a lot of light into the center of the stone.

Although not a new cut, emerald cut diamonds are becoming very popular. The stepping along the sides of the diamond provides excellent light reflection. The shape makes these styles of engagement rings perfect for almost every style of band.

Three band engagement rings and wedding sets are also becoming very popular. With these styles all rings interlock with a wedding band and anniversary band fitting over and under the engagement ring. Using these types of styles means you don't have to focus on a huge diamond, the rings themselves add beauty to the set.

Not all modern engagement rings are brand new in design. Many of the antique and estate style engagement rings are very popular, both as new recreations and as heirloom pieces of well preserved jewelry.

About the Author:

Tips For Purchasing Engagement Rings

July 2nd, 2009 George C.Baycan Comments off
by George C.Baycan

There are very few purchases as important to most people as the importance of choosing from the many different types of engagement rings on the market. These engagement rings symbolize love and a lifetime together, so they will need to be in keeping with the styles and preferences of both the groom and bride. Knowing what is out there with regards to types of engagement rings is an important first step.

Single diamond styles of engagement rings, know as solitaire rings, are very classic and timeless. The central diamond is the focus of the ring and the band is typically very delicate and simple, allowing the diamond to really shine and take center stage. The diamond can have different shapes however it is important that the cut and clarity of the diamond be good quality since it is the main focus.

Princess cut engagement rings are a good match with solitaire rings if you want to try something different than the more traditional round cut. This cut is square in shape and has many different facets or angles within the cut that make light reflect, giving a dazzling appearance to the stone.

For narrower band engagement rings a small stone often makes a perfect match and tends to make the ring more understated in appearance. For women with small hands and fingers these more delicate rings are much more balanced in appearance. Smaller diamond of gemstones surrounding the ring can also enhance the sparkle of the center stone without adding a heavy or bulky appearance.

Other options for making smaller stones look bigger include considering one of the more distinctive cuts. Pear shaped diamonds, marquis cut and emerald cuts are ideal for many types of engagement rings and look larger than the same carat of diamond in a round stone.

The band, which is another important aspect of engagement rings, can be very traditional or it too can be unique and very stylized. The classic gold, thinner band is commonly seen with larger stones, however it also can be used with groups of stones to accentuate the color and cut. Non-traditional types of metals such as titanium and palladium are becoming popular options for engagement ring bands.

Matching the band and the diamond will make the perfection combination for any style of engagement rings. To get a hint on what the bride-to-be likes, consider asking her about ring styles or checking the types of rings she currently wears to get an idea.

Remember that not all engagement rings and wedding rings are sold as a set. It is possible to combine different engagement rings with plain or ornate wedding bands to get just the look you want for you life together.

About the Author: