Jewelry is special. It lasts a lifetime. It has always been an emotional and sentimental experience that evokes wonderful memories while still giving pleasure for years ahead. When buying for yourself or for others, one has to have an understanding of the qualities and characteristics of jewelry, which is why Surat Diamond has put forth this article.
If you are thinking of buying a diamond, you are about to enter an enchanting world of romance, intrigue, legend and history. It is said that the Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds. The Ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were pieces of stars that fell to earth and some said they were the tears of God. Diamonds have been sought after, fought over and even worshiped, hence they have become the ultimate gift of life.
The reasons for buying Diamonds are as diverse as the people who desire them.
Two diamonds may at first glance look alike, but the truth is that they are very different. Although they may be of equal size, they may have very unequal values.
A Diamond has four characteristics, known as the 4 C’s – Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat Weight. These 4 C’s will help you understand while buying a Diamond. It is the combination of these four factors that determines the value of a Diamond.
Clarity: Diamonds were formed millions of years ago, deep within the earth under enormous heat and pressure. Consequently most diamonds contain tiny marks, known as inclusions, which make each stone unique. The inclusions don’t necessarily weaken the stone and when they don’t interfere with the passage of light they do not affect its beauty. The fewer and smaller the inclusions, the more valuable a diamond will be.
Carat weight: Diamond weight is measured in carats, and each carat is divided into 100 points. A carat is equal to one-fifth of a gram. It is the simplest of its characteristics to measure and from the earliest times it was used to calculate a diamond’s value.
Channel Set : A diamond set in a row with a strip of gold either side to hold the diamonds in place.
Claw set: A diamond set with each claw bent over to secure the stone.
Pave/Grain set: Diamonds set close together, held in place with grains of gold.
There are a number of ways in which diamonds can be ‘treated’. Care should be taken when repairing any jewelry containing treated diamonds. If you know the diamonds it treated, tell the jeweler!
All that a diamond engagement ring symbolizes is priceless. But while purchasing one you have to be practical. So, how much should one spend on this significant purchase? Today, two month’s salary is generally considered to be a good guideline. Planning a wedding can be an expensive time, but remember that costly receptions and honeymoons quickly become a memory, and fairytale wedding dresses will be worn once and then quickly fade. However a diamond will be with you forever and will be a constant sparkling reflection of your love for each other.
Diamonds need care to keep them at their brilliant best. A clean diamond reflects light better than one that has been dulled by skin oil, soap, cosmetics and grease. So it is important to clean your diamonds regularly. It is also possible to clean your diamonds at home with commercial jewelry cleaners and a mixture of ammonia, detergent and warm water. Soak the diamond in the solution (the dirtier it is the longer it will need) and then scrub gently with a soft brush. Making sure the plug is in the sink, rinse well with water, and dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
Do not wear your diamond ring while doing rough work and don’t let your diamond jewelry come into contact with chemicals as the setting may pit or discolour. It is advisable to take you jewelry for a professional clean and polish every year.
