Tag Archive: diamond

10 Most Popular Types of Diamond Cuts in 2015

types of diamond cuts

Maybe you know all about the fashion trends for 2015 and that this season (just like any other season), blonde is once again the number one color hair for women, but did you know what diamond cuts are in this year? It’s not exactly something that you read in every fashion magazine, but it’s definitely a trend you need to follow, either if you’re the one who expects (demands!) a diamond ring or the lucky guy who gets to buy it.

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.

 

How to Clean Black Diamonds

Français : Black diamond, animation vidéo 3D

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 1/4th 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

 

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.

How to Buy a Marquise Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Marquise cut diamond

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 Need For The Services Of Certified Appraiser

Before making an investment in or thinking of buying a valuable piece of jewelry, gem or stone of great value, it is of paramount importance to ascertain that the precious item one wishes to acquire is indeed of the actual worth attributed to it. And this is where a certified appraiser come into the picture.

What Is a Certified Appraisal?

A certified appraisal is an expert service which is for the express purpose of establishing the real worth and value of a valuable piece of jewelry or gem. There are professional labs which ensure their service assistance to insurance companies and other individuals, to calculate the true price of a seemingly precious jewel or ornament, which safeguards their interests and any loss because of a possible scam.

It is very hard for amateurs and inexperienced individuals to establish the authenticity of a piece of jewelry or a gemstone, but certified appraisal services offered by experts ensures a thorough assessment and evaluation of the precious trinket or ornament, establishing its real worth in the market.

Benefits Of The Certified Appraisal Service

Availing the services of expert appraisers ensures a number of benefits which can prove to be of great value to an investor thinking of purchasing valuable diamonds or spending on other valuable gems.

With a certified appraisal, the buyer enjoys ease of mind, because any uncertainty or doubt troubling them about the prudence of their investment is removed. As certification about the true value of a gem is provided by a neutral laboratory, it carries great weightage and is evidence of the true worth of a valuable.

The certification provided by the appraisers assesses the size, carat and color of the gem, establishing its worth which proves of significant value in establishing its sale price in the market.

The certification is also a very important document and assessment evidence for insurance companies, who design the coverage policy for a valuable, based on the resale value of the gem or piece of jewelry on the market.

While appraisal ensures the accurate assessment of the value of the diamond or gemstone in the market for insurance purposes, the certification ensures and accredits the characteristic features of a precious gemstone, leaving no ambiguity in the process.

Some recognized diamond and jewelry appraisal firms offering services in the industry, ensure a large portfolio of different related services, which prove to be of significant assistance to insurance companies, collectors, connoisseurs and gem lovers.

There is liquidation appraisal, quality appraisal and antique jewelry appraisal to name a few, which help ascertain the price and quality of a piece of jewelry or gemstone, for safe investment. Most laboratories ensure a damage report as well, which contains a complete detail of the value of the precious item along with the level of damage sustained by it, which proves very useful especially in the appraisal of an antique piece of jewelry or family heirloom.

By availing the services of expert neutral third parties in the field, one can easily ensure whether they are making the right choice in making an investment or not.

 

 

 

 

How to Clean Diamond Jewelry

how to clean diamond jewelry

Diamond is the hardest substance found on earth and it also has the tendency to attract grime and dirt. Whether your diamond jewelry is brand new or old, you will want to keep it sparkling for many more years to come. With continuous usage of diamond jewelry, the gems will start losing its shine. This especially happens in the case of diamond rings. Products like lotions and creams along with other grime can create a thick layer of dirt on your precious jewelry which blocks the light and as a result the diamonds becomes lifeless and dull.

 

You must know How to Clean a Diamond? and How to Clean Diamond Jewelry? The good news is, with a few cleaning tips; you can make your diamond sparkle as good as new.

 

Ways to Clean Diamonds

Diamonds lose their brilliance with everyday dust and with the usage of soaps, powders, lotions and creams. Additionally, the chemicals present in the air result in the discoloration and oxidization of the diamond’s mountings. Here are a few ways to clean your diamonds and retain the beauty and sparkle of your precious jewelry:

 

1.     Detergent Bath

In a bowl filled with water, add a mild liquid detergent (without chlorine). Mix it till warm foams are formed. Use a soft brush to clean your diamonds till some lather is created around them. Wash off with warm water. Afterwards, place your jewelry on a soft towel and pat it dry.

 

2.     Soak in Cold Water

In a bowl, make a mixture consisting of 1 part mild liquid detergent (without chlorine) and 4 parts cold water. Place your diamond jewelry in the bowl and leave it for 10-20 minutes. Take the jewelry out of the water and using a soft brush, tap all the mounting sides. Rinse the jewelry in the same solution and pat dry with a towel.

 

3.     Quick-Dip Technique

Use a branded jewelry cleaner liquid to clean your diamonds. Make sure it is suitable for the types of metals and gems used in your jewelry. Dip your items in the liquid and take them out immediately. Brush the gems and the mountings with a soft brush and pat dry with a towel.

 

4.     Ultrasonic Technique

There are several jewelry cleaning machines available in the market today. You will be able to clean your jewelry with this machine in just a few minutes. Majority of these machines include a metal cup for filling with detergent and water. They ensure that your jewelry comes out as good as new.

 

Few Tips

  •  Protect your jewelry from harmful chemicals. You always protect your hands from any kind of chemicals, so why not your precious jewelry too? The chemicals can take the shine and brilliance away from your diamonds.
  • When you are doing your daily housework tasks or gardening or any other rough activity, make sure you remove any diamond jewelry you are wearing.
  • Protect your diamonds from exposure to chlorine or bleach.
  • Never clean the diamonds with your fingers as the oils in your skin will leave residue on your gemstones.
  • If you have doubts about cleaning your diamonds yourself, ask your jeweler to clean them for you. Majority of them clean the jewelry without charging anything.

Certified Gemologists- Experts Ensuring Quality In The Industry

gemologist

Whenever one wants to make sure that they are making the right choice regarding any major decision in life, then it is important to seek the assistance of relevant experts in the field. Their years of experience, skill and expertise in the field are sure to prove highly beneficial in helping an individual make the perfect decision. Therefore, when it comes to making the ideal purchase decision concerning diamonds and other precious gems, then it is evident that the assistance of an industry professional is inevitable, thus stressing the importance of trained gemologists.

Gemologists- Know The Worth Of Your Gems

Just as everything that glitters is not gold, likewise all stones that shine and sparkle are not real diamonds or precious gemstones. With scams and frauds a usual trend in the market, the need to safeguard one’s investment and ensure a lucrative return is vital, which is possible by availing the professional services of a certified gemologist.

Gemologists are certified and trained individuals, who have an acute knowledge about the precious stones available in the market, their worth and value, cut, size and important characteristics. For amateurs with almost no knowledge and expertise of the gems, gemologists serve as the guiding star and highlight the important qualities of a gemstone while also outlining their apparent shortcomings.

Gemologists, being industry experts, know the real worth and value of a gemstone, and provide assurance to connoisseurs and collectors that they are making the right choice in deciding on a purchase.

Investors are sure of making an investment which would not backfire or result in catastrophic circumstances for them, as their purchase is approved to be authentic and worth its price in the market by a certified gemologist.

Certified Gemologists And Gem Appraisals

Gemologists, who are certified professionals within the industry, provide gem and jewelry appraisal services within the sector, which prove to be of great value to insurance companies seeking expert assistance to determine the real price of a precious item in the market.

Gemologists provide services in special laboratories which are fully equipped to facilitate them to carry out various tests and assessment procedures, to accurately determine the quality and worth of a gemstone or ornament.

Certified gemologists assess, evaluate and pronounce their judgment about the size, cut, color and clarity of a diamond, to establish its subsequent worth and price in the market. Most also provide certifications with the gems, which serve as evidence of the quality characteristics of the stones for aspiring buyers and sellers in the sector.

Along with diamond appraisals, gemologists also provide vintage and antique jewelry appraisals, calculating and evaluating the real worth of the family heirlooms and old pieces of precious jewelry ornaments. The damage report provided by these gem and jewelry experts ensures a detailed account of the possible value of a valuable trinket or old ornament after having sustained years of damage.

Liquidation appraisal is another service provided by them, in which an owner of the gems gets to know the actual liquidation value of their stones if they were to sell them on the market there and then. The services of certified and experienced gemologists ensure a scam free buying and selling of precious gemstones on the market, which ensures a risk and worry free investment in valuable stones.

What Happens in a Ring Appraisal?

diamond ring appraisal

Choosing an engagement ring is always exciting, but before you spend your hard-earned money on the ring, you need to make sure you have a ring appraisal. While the ring might look great to you, unless you are a jewelry expert, you might not know if you are overpaying for the piece or not. You might not even be able to tell if the metal and the gem are real. Instead of buying an overpriced ring without real value, you should make sure that you do the right thing and get a ring appraisal. You will have peace of mind when you do.

 

 

 

Why is Ring Appraisal Important?

 

When you buy a large diamond – one that is greater than one carat – you should receive a diamond grading report. However, this is not an actual ring appraisal. The ring appraisal will be able to back up and verify that the report was accurate though. Having an appraisal will give you an actual value for your ring, and you will need that value if you plan to insure the ring, which you should.

The diamond ring appraisal will also include specific information about your particular ring, which could prove helpful in the event of a theft. If someone steals your ring and the authorities find a ring at a pawnshop or on a suspect, they can compare the information on the appraisal about your ring to help identify it.

 

Find Appraisers You Can Trust

 

Since you are dealing with a valuable item, it is vital that you only entrust it to those you can trust and those who can verify their skills. You should only trust the best appraisers to evaluate your ring. Always check the credentials of the company doing the appraising and make sure they have not had any issues with customers in the past. They should have great customer service and a knowledgeable, professional staff that can let you know more about the process of appraisal.

Ask how much experience the company has had in appraisals and what type of formal training they’ve had. You should also ask if you could watch the appraisal. While the vast majority of appraisers are entirely trustworthy, you do not want to find yourself doing business with a shady company that could switch gems on you. It does not happen very often at all, but it is a risk you do not want to take. Finally, ask the appraisers about the cost of their service.

What Does the Color of Diamonds Mean?

color of the diamonds

4 C’s

When experts examine diamonds, they are looking at four different aspects of the gem, called the 4 Cs. These are the color, cut, clarity, and carat of the diamond. The color of diamonds is the element that many laypeople simply do not understand, especially since many people who are looking at two diamonds might not be able to pick up the subtle color differences that an expert can see. The colorless diamonds, also called white diamonds, actually have varying levels of color in them. Diamonds that have a yellowish or brownish tinge to them are not as valuable as the diamonds that are truly clear and colorless.

Color of Diamonds

To determine the color quality of a diamond, the expert needs to look at it before it goes into a piece of jewelry though. When it is in a setting, the metal can actually make a clear diamond look as though it has a slightly different color. When they are in yellow gold, they might appear as though they have a yellow tint although it is just a trick of the light.

Experts will judge the color of the diamond based on a system set up by the Gemological Institute of America, or AGI New York . They have a grading system for diamonds that goes from D to Z. Those diamonds that have a score of D are extremely rare. It means that they are entirely colorless, and these are the most sought after of diamonds. The diamonds that have a Z grade would have a lot of unwanted color in them. Naturally, where the diamond falls in this grade will greatly determine the value of the diamond.

The diamonds rated D, E, and F are colorless. Those rated G, H, I, and J are nearly colorless, and K, L, and M have some color to them.  It is usually slight but yellow. Most of the time, people can’t see the color with the naked eye. Diamonds graded N, O, P, Q, and R have a visible yellow tint to them. S through Z graded diamonds are visible as well, and they are noticeably worse. The diamonds that fall into that category may even take on a brown appearance. You may even be able to see the color difference when the diamond is mounted.

When you are choosing colored diamonds, try to understand What Does Diamond Mean to you? Always inspect the diamond and check the diamond report to see where it falls on this scale.