Tag Archive: Diamond clarity

How to Choose a Diamond Settings

diamond setting

First engagement ring – 1.51ct princess cut diamond (G/VS, GIA), 2 0.30ct trillions (G/VS), platinum setting. Sent it back – it wasn’t the right one. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The most popular type of setting for diamond jewelry is the prong setting. The setting holds the diamond strongly and prevents it from falling off. There are many varieties of diamond settings available that change the entire look of the diamond, making it more appealing.

The purpose of a setting is to enhance the impression and visibility of the diamond, while securing it sturdily. Few of the diamond settings are mentioned below:

Prong Settings:

Some common forms of prong settings are mentioned below, so choose according to your taste and preference:

Four-Prong Setting

If you want your diamond to look larger, choose a four-prong setting for your stone. Four-prongs are as strong as six-prongs, so opt for the one that visually appeals to you.

Six-Prong Setting

This is the most preferred choice among women. Besides being strong, six-prongs enhance the fire and brilliance of a diamond. Sadly, the chances of cloth and hair getting stuck into your ring are higher.

Cathedral Setting

This prong setting curves from the bottom of the diamond. If your diamond isn’t round or oval, opt for this setting to ensure the security of your precious stone.

Cross-Wire Lucida Prong Setting

If you are an athlete or a gym person, this prong setting is ideal for you. Cross-wire Lucida prong setting allows the diamond to assemble at the bottom without any chances of becoming loose.

Bezel Setting

If you want to hide any flaws present in your diamond, select this setting to hide any defects. Also, if your diamonds are small, Bezel setting makes them look bigger and brighter.

Channel Setting

If you have manifold diamonds and want them all to be studded in a single piece of jewelry, choose a channel setting. Channel setting enhances the whole look of the diamonds making them look stylish. This style suits both men and women.

Flush Setting

Small and flat diamonds can look attractive if studded into a flush setting. These diamond settings are ideally worn on a regular basis because they are not too showy.

A diamond setting matters to a great extent because they are one of the key determinants of a diamond’s look and appeal. It is worthwhile to decide upon your diamond jewelry setting before you purchase it for a special occasion.

 

 

How to Buy Diamond Jewelry

For many of you out there, buying diamond jewelry will be an entirely new experience, its entirely different form selling jewelry. It is absolutely normal to be excited and eager; but that doesn’t mean you should be overwhelmed by it. Before buying diamond jewelry, understanding its characteristics is imperative.

Go through the fundamentals below to perk up your shopping experience:

The Type

If you plan to wear the stone for a special occasion, like a wedding; a ring or wedding band would be the best option. Whereas, diamond for gift purposes should be in the form of a pendant, bracelet or multi-stone studded ring.

Budget Considerations

Have a clear budget in your mind before you go out to buy diamonds. Underestimating your budget might end up making you gloomy. Going out to a diamond jewelry store without planning a budget may leave you puzzled when confronted with a beautiful diamond jewelry piece. Always establish a budget before buying diamonds to avoid regretful occurrences.

Trending Styles

When buying diamond jewelry, one comes across countless styles that are available in the marketplace. It is easy to pick and choose a particular style for oneself, but buying for someone else can be a complicated decision. Once you are clear in your head about the preferred type and budget, find answers to the following questions:

  • What is the prevailing trend of diamond jewelry?
  • What would suit the current wardrobe?
  • Can my friends and family suggest me some good options?

Size of the Jewelry

Ring and bracelets must be bought according to a pre-measured size. This calculated approach is very important when buying expensive jewelry. Earring length must be kept in mind as special occasions might demand you to wear longer earrings. Buying necklaces can leave you in a fix, especially if the person you are buying for, is not with you during the purchase. In such cases, ask the jeweler if the jewelry can be exchanged to match the relevant size.

Assess the Diamond

Ordinarily, a diamond is assessed on 4 criteria, also called the four Cs:

  • Diamond Cut: A diamond must be symmetrically cut in order for it to shine,
  • Diamond Clarity: Look out for small blemishes and scratches which cannot be seen through naked eye,
  • Diamond Color: A perfect diamond stone is uncolored,
  • Diamond Carat: The size of a diamond reflects its value. The bigger the size, the higher the value.

Understanding the Clarity “C” of Diamonds

diamond calrity

Diamonds are one of the most precious stones on earth. Needless to say, one needs to be very careful and informed while making such a costly purchase. That being said, there are four factors that determine the quality, hence affect the value of a diamond. These four factors are collectively known as the 4 Cs.

The 4 Cs stands for:

  1. Cut
  2. Clarity
  3. Color
  4. Carat weight

This article talks about the second C that is clarity. Diamond clarity refers to the extent to which there are imperfections and blemishes in a particular diamond. A diamond that features major blemishes and inclusions is rated low on the diamond clarity scale. This is because such diamonds have flaws and interruptions that obstruct the path of light when passed through the particular diamond. As a result, this particular diamond will shine less when exposed to light. The location of the inclusion also affects the brilliance of a diamond. Expert diamond cutters go to great lengths to cut a diamond in such a way as to hide the inclusions present on it.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed the 11 point diamond clarity scale on the basis of which the clarity of diamonds can be graded. GIA has considered several factors while devising this clarity chart. These include the number, color, size, reflectivity and the location of the inclusion or blemish that can be seen under ten times (10x) magnification.

Following is the GIA’s diamond clarity scale with explanations along with each grade:

FL (Flawless): It implies that the diamonds are absolutely free of any inclusions or blemishes.

IF (Internally Flawless): It means that the diamonds contain no inclusions, but there are certain blemishes that are visible under 10 x magnification.

VVS1, VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): This implies that the diamonds contains some inclusions but they are difficult to be seen under 10 x magnification. The VVS1 inclusions can only be seen from the pavilion, while the VVS2 inclusions can be seen from the crown.

VS1, VS2 (Very Slightly Included): This clarity grade implies that the diamonds have inclusions that can clearly be seen under 10 x magnification, however these inclusions are very insignificant and can be marked as minor.

SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included): This clarity implies that the diamonds have noticeable inclusions that can be easily seen under 10 x magnification. The SI1 flaws are normally undetectable by the naked eye, whereas the SI2 flaws are generally visible to the naked eye.

I1, I2, I3 (Included): This implies that the diamonds contain obvious inclusions that are so major that they can affect the shine, transparency and brilliance of the particular diamond.

Don’t believe anyone when it comes to purchasing diamonds. It is a pricey decision. Stay informed and make your own choice.