Have a look at all the Diamond Shapes Here.

Diamonds last indeed forever, regardless of their shape, but it helps to know a thing or two about types of diamond cuts and different diamond shapes. So, here we are, ready to tell you the 2015 trends for diamond’s cut:

1. Cushion Diamond Cut

You can’t go wrong with a cushion cut, especially since its popularity has increased over the years, leaving behind the once most popular princess cut diamond. Combining the charm of a vintage shape with the sparkle of the current trends, a cushion cut diamond will look breathtaking surrounded by antique diamond halos. If you want to add a touch of glamor, opt for Art Deco ring settings. This is indeed one of the diamond types that will last forever!

2. Vintage Diamond Cut

As we said above, some of the most trendy diamond types and one of the most appreciated diamond shapes from many different diamond shapes are the vintage diamond shapes. From VIP and celebrities to the girl next door, everybody seems to value these days the antique style. Maybe, it’s because the celebrities set the trends when it comes to diamond cuts and shapes (after all, they are the ones who afford to buy different types of diamonds without having to think twice when it comes to the prices), maybe it’s because we all long for the Old Hollywood charm. Either way, we know that vintage cuts of diamonds will be the perfect choice for romantic brides. Whether we’re talking about French cuts, antique cushion or rose cuts, your diamond ring will stand out in the crowd of diamond cuts and shapes.

3. Princess Diamond Cut

It’s true that is no longer the number one choice when it comes to diamond cuts and shapes, but it is definitely among the top three most popular shapes of 2015. It was first created in 1960, and since then many famous and less famous ladies have taken pride in their princess cut diamonds. It has a fancy shape and it goes perfectly with engagement rings. It is known as one of the most flexible diamond to work with and matches almost any style.

4. Round Diamond Cut

One of the most popular cuts of diamond that is still going strong is the round cut diamond. We have to admit that a round diamond cut represents about 75% of all diamonds sold in the world, but this means only one thing: it is really beautiful and desirable. A classic shape, perfect for both romantic and sophisticated ladies, this diamond cut is one of the most beautiful diamond shape of all different diamond shapes we know. We especially like a round shaped diamond with a hearts and arrows cut, which brings a plus of brilliance to the gem that no other round shaped diamond can bring. Due to its cut and shape, this type of round cut diamond can be considered superior to many other sophisticated shapes, especially when it enjoys the proper reflection of light that maximizes its brightness.

5. Marquise Diamond Cut

One of our favorite types of diamond cuts, the marquise diamond reminds us of royalty and a little bit of those gorgeous, evil step mothers from fairy tales. Nonetheless, we really fancy them due to their long and narrow cut that creates the illusion of a greater size and a dazzling sparkle. These football-shaped diamond types are a great choice if you want to maximize the perceived size and add a touch of mystery to your personality.

6. Radiant Diamond Cut

The radiant diamond impresses due to its unique shape and superb sparkle. Not exactly a square, more like a blend between a princess and cushion cut diamond, this diamond shape was created for the fashionistas, who want to stick to the “traditional” diamond jewelry, but will definitely love an extravagant touch to it. A radiant cut diamond has complete brilliant-cut facet pattern, which makes it a truly unique gem in the sea of different diamond shapes.

7. Asscher Diamond Cut

Although this diamond cut dates back to 1902, when two brothers from Holland decided to add new cuts of diamonds on the diamond market, it is one of the trendiest types of diamonds of 2015. The diamond has borrowed the names of the two brothers that shaped it – the Asscher brothers. It is a forerunner to the emerald cuts of diamond, but the remarkable difference hides in the square shape with large step facets, the higher crown and a much smaller table.

8. Emerald Diamond Cut

And here we are, at the emerald cut diamond, a popular and yet desirable diamond cut that brings joy to every bride to be, who is lucky enough to receive it. One of the most beautiful cuts of diamonds, the emerald cut diamond is unique due to the steep cuts of its pavilion. It also has an open table. While they don’t sparkle like brilliant cut diamonds, these diamonds have the power to produce a hall-of-mirrors effect, where the light plays with dark and dazzles the audience.

9. Pear Diamond Cut

The pear cut diamond is the result of a round shape diamond that meets a marquise shape diamond. Its trademark is the tapered point on one end, hence its resemblance with a pear. From the different types of diamonds that have this pear cut, the modified brilliant-cut pear shape diamond is probably the most beautiful, especially if you afford or you’re lucky enough to receive a large size diamond of this type (from 5 carats up). It is absolutely breathtaking!

10. Flawless Diamond Cut

Yes! A flawless diamond cut is always in trends and it should be one of the first things you check before buying a diamond (you probably know about the famous 4Cs by now). Since not many of us are experts in diamonds, the best thing to do before buying a diamond is to get an appraisal, especially if this diamond is part of an engagement ring. A diamond ring appraisal can be done by different accredited institutes, AGI being one of the best in the field. Their experts will tell you all you need to know about your diamond and assess its overall value. Always insure your diamonds based on experts’ appraisals.

The post 10 Most Popular Types of Diamond Cuts in 2015 appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

carats (0 mg) round diamond engagement ring. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Selling an antique diamond ring, probably belonging to your grandma, could be frightening. There is a certain level of skepticism involved regarding whether you will be able to crack a fair deal or not. In order to get a reasonable price, you must set the price according to the ring’s craft and the diamond’s worth. This sounds easy, but in reality, it can be a troublesome task.

Read on to know how you can sell a vintage diamond ring at a fair price:

Get the Ring Appraised

Before setting a price, it is advisable to get the ring appraised, preferably from a jeweler. Make sure the jeweler is not interested in buying that antique diamond ring because his advice could influence you and the price of the ring. Try to obtain an unbiased appraisal relating to the antique diamond ring’s cut & uniqueness, condition, and to what extent it meets the antique ‘style’ quotient.

Acquire a Certification

If possible, try to get hold of a certificate from a genuine gemologist. This will permit you to set a higher price for the ring and attract more genuine buyers willing to pay that price.

Find Buyers Exclusively

At first, try to place an ad in a newspaper or a jewelry publication at a price you think is appropriate. Estimate the response of the market and how many buyers you are able to attract at this price. The reaction will help decide whether you scroll the price up or down.

Jewelry Store

It is a good idea to sell your ring at a store that sells antique jewelry. Since you now know the worth of your antique diamond ring, there are high chances that you will get a satisfying price from the buyer. If you feel the price being paid is unmatched to the ring’s worth, you can go elsewhere.

Online Selling

Consider selling your antique diamond ring at an online platform. This will not only permit you to place the lowest possible price that you want for the ring, but there high chances that people may end up biding higher (in case you attract more buyers). It will be plus point if you attach the appraisal and any certification obtained to substantiate your antique diamond ring.

The post How to Sell an Antique Diamond Ring appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

Français : Black diamond, animation vidéo 3D (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Black diamonds are real diamonds that are simply black in color. Unlike colorless diamonds, they are opaque and shine-less. Black diamond contains traces of graphite, hematite and magnetite elements, which makes them look black. Unlike colorless diamonds, the 4Cs of assessing diamond quality: Color, cut, clarity and carat do not apply to black diamonds.

Black diamonds are highly sought after by people who are fond of rare stones. Considering the value and demand of these diamonds, it is very important to keep them clean. Follow the steps mentioned below to keep your black diamond clean:

Cleaning the Black Diamond

Make use of the following things:

• A flat dish,
• A toothbrush with soft spikes,
• Ammonia and
• A soft cloth.

1. Soak the black diamond in hot water for 10-15 minutes so that any layer of oil or dirt loses its grip,
2. Add thinned ammonia to 1/4^th part of plain water; you can also buy a colored diamond cleaning solution that is available at many jewelry stores,
3. Pour this solution in a flat dish pan and put the black diamond in it for nearly an hour. For best results, make sure that the black stone is completely drowned into the solution,
4. After an hour, take out the diamond and clean it with the soft-spiked toothbrush. Clean all the sides of the stone to remove the dirt completely,
5. Wash the diamond with pressured hot water to get rid of the remaining solution film on it,
6. Buff up the stone using a soft cloth. Use a plain cloth to avoid getting any scratches on the black diamond.

The result will be a clean and dirt-less black diamond! If you are reluctant to clean it on your own, you can take it to a jewelry store and get it cleaned by an experienced individual before your eyes.

It is a good idea to keep your black diamond at a safe place, separate from other jewelry. This is because the contact of other jewelry pieces may damage the diamond, leaving scratches. You must take off your luxurious black diamond ring before getting into dirty household tasks; this will not only keep your diamonds clean but also long-lasting.

See Also:

How to Clean a Platinum Diamond Ring

The post How to Clean Black Diamonds appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

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.

The post How to Choose a Diamond Settings appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

The post How to Buy Diamond Jewelry appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

English: Red Marquise cut glass gemstones. 14x7mm (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One of the ideal choices you make for your engagement is opting for a marquise cut diamond engagement ring. The marquise cut is basically an oval cut diamond, which is long and slim. It tends to be nearer to your finger mainly due to its cut. Marquise cuts look beautiful on long and lean fingers as compared to short and wide ones.

Marquise diamond cuts are alternatively known as “Navette Cut”, having 50-58 facets. Whether you opt for an antique or vintage fashioned ring, every style looks good with a marquise cut diamond studded on it.

When buying a marquise cut diamond engagement ring, make sure you examine the stone based on the 4Cs criteria, like other diamonds.

• Diamond Cut: A marquise cut must be ideally between length to width ratios of 1.75 to 2.25 to keep up with the ‘bow-tie’ effect; any measurement close to this ratio is also acceptable;
• Diamond Color: It is recommended that you buy a marquise if its color is near to being colorless. however, if you want a fancy colored marquise cut, then the choice is yours;
• Diamond Clarity: Any flaws or impurities present become more evident in a marquise cut diamond. Thus, before buying, ensure that you check for the clarity quotient;
• Diamond Carat: Carat is not much of an issue because the cut and shape of a marquise diamond make it look larger than the carat weight.

Besides the 4Cs, there are many other considerations that need to be taken care of when buying a marquise cut diamond ring for your engagement:

• The prong setting for the diamond ring should be such that it holds the diamond sturdily and does not tamper its tip.
• Check if the marquise diamond is evenly cut from all sides and whether the curved sides match each other.
• The bow tie should not be over-prominent in its look,
• The diamond must be placed in the center of the metal band and should not be disproportionate.
• Prefer buying a marquise cut diamond ring from a renowned seller who is a specialist in this category of diamond cuts.

It is recommended that you ask for a certificate along with the marquise cut diamond engagement ring apart from warranties and guarantees. Make your choice sensibly, taking into account the above mentioned tips and recommendations.

For further information about diamonds vist AGINewYork.com

The post How to Buy a Marquise Cut Diamond Engagement Ring appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

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.

The post Understanding the Clarity “C” of Diamonds appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

• Did the diamond have any temporary or permanent treatments applied?
• Is the stone a synthetic diamond, a real diamond, a color-altered one, loaded with filler or a plain fake?
• Is the information stated in the documentation accurate?
• Is there any damage to the diamond?
• Is the diamond really cut correctly?

Given those factors and for a buyer’s own safety, it’s recommended to use a third party appraisal service in transactions involving diamonds or other gemstones, as a matter of fact. The only other things people buy without having a “list price” are houses, so it’s obvious diamonds are a big investment for any person. Appraisers are therefore needed to confirm these type of transactions.

Gemology is the science and art of gemstones. Certified gemologists have special training in grading of gems, especially diamonds. The appraisal process involves two important components: the authentication of an item and the assignment of an appropriate value.

Over the years, jewelry stores, pawn shops, auction houses or other types of businesses would make appraisals of their own, based on previous experiences and using charts, such as the Rapaport Diamond Report to establish their own prices. Of course, these appraisals are not accurate and the need for independent appraisers was obvious. A fair appraisal is beneficial for both the seller and the buyer, and using the services of an independent appraiser ensures exactly this. Appraisers don’t buy or sell jewelry at all, they are just providing their services, so they don’t have any interest in the outcome of the appraisal. This is something most diamond and gems shoppers found to be useful, as serious sellers allow a period of time from the moment of purchase to return them, time that can be used to get an evaluation from an independent appraiser to confirm the information provided by the seller, or to receive more details.

Depending on a client’s needs, an appraisers is able to provide retail replacement value reports (used to confirm the quality of a gemstone), establish market value and fair market value, sale prices and other types of evaluation, varying from liquidation appraisal, damage reports or collateral appraisal.

AGI New York (Accredited Gemological Institute) offers all the services involved in diamonds and gemstones transactions with the help of state-of-the-art technology. The AGI laboratory is able to deliver customized reports and a wide range of appraisal services. Even more, the AGI gemologists are available for training, through seminars covering topics in the industry from treated gemstones to synthetic ones, to prepare business staff in better selling certified diamonds. The institute’s reputation for meeting client’s timetables is unsurpassed, making it a priority to treat each client with prompt and individual attention.

The post The Importance Of Appraisals In Diamonds And Gemstones Transactions appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

What the media doesn’t tell you is how a proper diamond appraisal is really done. In most cases, the value of a diamond can be very different, according to the type of appraisal made. Especially for estate jewelry, there are usually two types of appraisal meant to settle the value of a diamond jewel.

When a diamond is appraised, it’s important to make a difference between the replacement value and the market value (referred to as resell value in some cases). The replacement value means how much a brand new items costs. Therefore, if you have a diamond ring you bought a couple of years ago, the replacement value is equal to a similar diamond ring bought from a shop or a jewelry store. The market value represents the sum of money an owner would receive in the case of a resell. Simply put, you as an owner are not able to receive the same amount of money for  diamond jewelry like a jeweler or a store would, no matter how much you paid for it in the first place.

The resale value is calculated by taking several factors into consideration, such as the condition of the jewelry, market demand, fashion trends and the mark-ups undergone by a specific jewelry piece from a low wholesale price to a high retail price (in fact, the replacement value). Considering all these factors, it’s no wonder the dream of selling a diamond ring for thousands of dollars quickly bursts like a bubble, because often estate jewelry can be sold for a fraction of the original price.

Truth been told, it’s important to specify what you intend to do with a diamond appraisal, because for insurance appraisals, for instance, the replacement value is always used. That’s because insurance companies need to know how much money they have to pay in case of robbery, fire or other accidents that might occur. However, no serious buyer will be interested in your insurance appraisal, so you will need to get a market value appraisal. The confusion of these two values it’s what makes many diamonds owners wonder why their jewelry is not as much worth as they thought in the case of a resale.

Knowing the difference between these two values is equally important as finding the right appraiser. Even if some is a qualified gemologist, they still need to be certified, so be careful who you choose, because an appraisal done by a non-certified gemologist is not as valuable and many buyers or even insurance companies will not consider it. Not only a certification is what makes a gemologist the right person to perform the appraisal. It’s best to find some with experience in the field, someone who’s able to provide an appraisal as detailed and accurate as possible. Don’t forget to communicate with the appraiser of your choice what you intend to use it for, because, as stated above, the replacement value is used for insurance purposes, but it’s not useful if you want to resale diamond jewelry.

If you want to sell your estate jewelry and need to know exactly how much money you could get for diamond jewelry, or if you need to insure your diamonds, schedule an appointment with us and you can be certain you’ll receive the best possible services regarding diamond appraisals.

Photo: Pixabay.com, user: Wounds_and_cracks

The post Different Types of Diamond Appraisals and How They’re Used appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.

Pink diamonds have this interesting color due to some physical abnormalities or impurities found in their structure. Most pink diamonds come from Australia and natural pink stones are pretty rare, making them some of the most expensive fancy-colored stones. When buying pink diamonds, the most important things you should pay attention to are the size and the color density, because these two elements will set the price higher or lower and you’ll notice the difference in your wallet.

How important is the color of pink diamonds?

The color for pink diamonds is evaluated by three components: tone, hue and saturation.

1. Tone is what tells you how light or dark a color is. Naturally, it comes to the personal preference how you choose the diamond, but usually too light or too dark stones don’t have a discernible primary color and are not so desirable. Medium-dark stones on the other hand, have a well-defined hue, so the color looks more beautiful.
2. Hue is the visible color of the fancy diamond. The most common hue for pink diamonds is, naturally, pink. However, in a stone you can also see secondary hues of a primary color. Secondary hues usually enhance the primary color, making the diamond even more valuable.  If the secondary hues outshadow the primary color, distracting the eye from it, the value is automatically lower, because the color won’t appear as vivid. Common secondary hues for pink diamonds are orange, purple or brown. Purple and orange give value to the stone, while brown or yellow secondary hues are not sought out by buyers. Pink diamonds with no secondary hues, but with a vivid pink primary color are the most expensive ones because they are very rare.
3. Saturation is the intensity of the color. Not just pink diamonds, but any kind of fancy diamonds are more expensive if they have a saturated color. Therefore, deep pink diamonds are more valuable than pink diamonds with light coloring. The most expensive pink diamonds in terms of saturation are those who have a hue closer to red, because red diamonds are the rarest colored diamonds.

Carat weight

Like for any diamond, carat weight is also very important to set a price. As fancy-colored diamonds are rarer, bigger diamonds are more expensive. Especially with pink diamonds, because these stones are so much in trend, a diamond bigger than 0.3 carats is considerably more expensive than smaller but otherwise comparable stones. Pink diamonds bigger than 0.5 carats are extremely rare and therefore very expensive.

Clarity

For pink diamonds, clarity is graded the same way as it is for other types of diamonds, although it should be mentioned that clarity is not as important for fancy-colored diamonds like for colorless ones because flaws are not so visible due to the coloring. So at least in this aspect you don’t have to pay more for a flawless pink diamond, because flaws are unnoticeable for the naked eye. Something in the SI1 or SI2 clarity range looks stunning and it’s  a little more budget-friendly (as much as pink diamonds can be).

Cut

Colored diamonds are not cut with proportions used to maximize brilliance, like in the case of colorless diamonds. This is just a secondary characteristic for colored diamonds, therefore they are cut to enhance and showcase the color intensity. Brilliance is something to be considered, only if you’re satisfied with the diamond’s color saturation.

If you plan on buying a pink diamond, or any type of diamond, or if you already have a diamond and would like to know how much it’s worth, AGI New York provides certified appraisal services.

The post How to Choose the Perfect Pink Diamond appeared first on AGI NewYork Blog.