July 31, 2008

Give Her A Diamond Cross Pendant

by Kurt Schefken

Is there a special woman in your life that deserves an extra special gift? You might consider that jewelry classic ? the diamond cross pendant. It is a gift that is always appropriate and always appreciated for its beauty and meaning.

Women of every age can wear diamond cross pendants anywhere, whether they are religious or not. A diamond cross always look right, whether at a church service or at sophisticated cocktail parties. Diamond cross pendants can be beautiful symbols of faith or merely understated fashion accents.

You may be surprised at the many styles are available. Crosses are available with just a simple diamond at the center of a gold, silver or even wooden cross. Or, the cross may be made up solely of the diamonds and their settings. Very tiny simple crosses look lovely on a little girl at her Baptism or First Communion. Teenagers and young adults often opt for larger, ornate crosses with diamonds of varying sizes. These go particularly well with today's Gothic look. Quite often there are matching rings and earrings available to make a lovely set.

Diamonds don't have to be the sole gemstone on your cross pendant. Women often like to combine their diamonds with their birthstone or other favored gems. One wonderful idea is to have a diamond cross pendant studded with the birthstones of her husband, her children and/or her grandchildren. These become cherished heirlooms.

There are hardly any occasions in which it would be inappropriate to give a diamond cross. Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries are ideal occasions as well as weddings and special religious observances. Milestones such as Confirmations, graduations and retirements can be marked with this precious jewelry. Giving it at Mother's Day, Valentine's Day and Sweetest Day would be appreciated too. "Just because" gifts are often the best of all.

Presenting the pendant in an elegant gift box is always right. But why not make the presentation extra special: This Easter put the pendant inside a hollow chocolate Easter egg or bunny. Hang it around the neck of an Easter stuffed animal. If you're not giving it at Easter, try to find another occasion-related item in which to hide the pendant. Or, hang it from the rearview mirror of her car? (In any event, make sure she finds it. There is a story of a valuable engagement ring being hidden in a chocolate Easter egg. The intended did not open it right away and in fact, exchanged the egg (and the ring) for something else. The story goes the ring was never found.) Don't let this happen to you.

A diamond cross pendant is a beautiful gift that never goes out of style. Give her a gift she will treasure always. She will always remember and appreciate your thoughtfulness.

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Eight tips help you avoid buying fake diamond

by Caroline Melkonian

There is something about diamonds which is very alluring. With economy booming, people are buying more and more diamonds. Loose diamonds are no longer a luxury. Just look around and you will be pleasantly surprised to find out almost everyone you know owns some sort of diamond jewellery.

Like any industry, the diamond jewellery industry has its fare share of con artists and scammers. In this world of advanced technology it is almost impossible to simply look at a diamond and determine whether it is real or not ? especially if you don?t know much about diamonds. There are some steps that you can take to make sure buying diamonds ends up a joy instead of a nightmare.

1.Reputation First, only deal with reputable jewellers and when you find one, stick with them. It is exactly like choosing your GP or dentist. You have to be comfortable with the seller. When they build trust, then you know you are parting with your hard earned cash to a genuine person. Also, when you like a loose diamond stone or a piece of jewellery like a diamond ring, ask for certification. If no certificate exists, do not walk but run out of the store (do not take this literally!!). What I am trying to convey is that with no certification, there is no way to verify the type of diamond you are buying. Any good jeweller will provide certification.

2. Certification Notice when you go to the dentist or your GP. Notice how their certificates are up on the wall. It makes you comfortable that you are in good hands. The same principal applies with buying diamonds. These days with a little research you should be asking for GIA diamonds. These diamonds are certified by the Gemological Institute Of America (GIA). Through testing and research, they have a way to grade diamonds. There were the first to introduce the 4C?s. (Cut, Clarity, Colour, Carat).

3. Look You have zeroed in on a diamond ring or diamond necklace, take a close look at the setting that the stone is in. Look at the setting that the stone is in. Fake diamonds such as zirconium are usually set in low quality metals. Take a close look at the stone. Fake diamonds are not durable. Look for scratches and nicks.

4. Appraisal After purchasing a diamond, take it to another jeweller for appraisal. In fact, take it to two or three other jewellers for an appraisal to make sure that the appraisals are all fairly close. If you find that you have purchased a fake diamond, you may be accused of making a switch when you return to the store of your purchase. That is why it is of upmost importance to ask for a certificate.

5. Carat Scam Diamonds are such that unless you know a little about them, you could be easily fooled. One way is the carat scam. This happens with diamond rings. You look at the tag and it has the Carat Total Weight of all the diamond pieces. This is not right as the total weights for each diamond should be made available on the tag. This leads consumers to believe that the main diamond in the piece is actually bigger than it actually is. Be informed and ask the seller what the total carat weight of the centre piece is.

6. Fractions Beware of fractions. Depending on the jewellery stores, they are allowed to round off the diamond weights. For example, if you like a diamond and ask for its weight, the jeweller may tell you that it is a ? carat diamond. This means that the diamond is between ? a carat and ? carat. It may seem like nothing but the price range can be tremendous.

7. Lighting, Lighting How many times have you entered a diamond jewellery shop and were almost blinded by the lighting ion the store. Store owners love to show their diamonds in bright lights. Light makes the diamond shine and sparkle. Ask the seller to show you the diamond in a different type of lighting. Sometimes, you can bring the diamond jewellery out of the store (do not be surprised if 2 or 3 sales assistants follow you out). You may be surprised how dull or bright the diamond actually looks.

8. Beware of dodgy appraisers! It is hard to believe but there are some jewellery appraisers who will appraise your loose diamond or diamond jewellery for free.try to tell you that the diamond is worthless or worth less than it is actually worth! What they are attempting to do is take the diamond off your hands or in some instances; they will want to sell you a diamond of higher value. They will ask that you make up the difference with cash. The best way out of this is to have your jewellery items appraised at one or two more places to make sure you are receiving accurate information.

At the end of the day, I cannot stress enough the importance of choosing a good jeweller and once you have found them, stick to them. It may take time but it is a small price to pay for eventually owning a piece of outstanding diamond jewellery which will last you a lifetime. As they say, diamonds are forever and you can keep buying diamonds with the confidence that you are getting what you paid for.

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July 29, 2008

Antique Diamond Rings Carry A Lot Of History

by Grace Jennings

Many diamond shoppers prefer antique diamond rings and jewelry because of the history associated with them. One of the fist decisions to be made about before buying a diamond is whether to choose treated or untreated stones. Purists prefer untreated while others believe that treated varieties make for enhanced color and other unique characteristics. In either event, any and all laboratory enhancements must be made clear to the buyer and detailed on the sales receipt.

Antique diamonds date back to European historical periods including Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Victorian and Georgian. Back in those days, the class structure of Europe entitled the wearing of these gems only to royalty. In the 17th century, a wealthy merchant class occasionally wore a diamond - but their rarity allowed them the acclaimed name of "the royal gem".

In order for a diamond ring to be considered an antique, it must be over 100 years old and have belonged to one ot the historical periods in Europe. Of course today anyone can wear these precious stones. However, to own a piece of history from the days when only royalty could possess the dazzling gems is a rare treat for the average person.

It should come as no surprise given the history of diamonds that Europeans of the 15th Century first introduced the gem as a formal engagement and wedding ring. Many of the time viewed them as a representation of fortitude, innocence, prosperity and faithfulness. By today's standards, the wedding ring symbolizes an eternal commitment with no ending and, in contrast to the days of past, the main consideration is given to the ring's appearance.

Inherent characteristics of diamonds include their representation of strength, purity, beauty and eternity. It's a fact that most engagement rings are given for their intrinsic value of eternal love. Therefore, the choice of diamond should be every bit as special as the person receiving it.

When selecting the perfect stone, some believe that size is the most important thing. In fact, many believe that the larger the carat, the more expensive the ring. However, there are other factors that come into play when determining price. One of these factors is the color grading system. For example, colorless diamonds are the most expensive while a noticeable yellow color will cost less.

If a flush setting is used, the diamond is set securely and presents a smooth appearance. This type of mounting is recommended for anyone who does a lot of work with their hands. The flush setting is generally more expensive than the prong setting, but the stone receives more protection with this option.

When it comes to determining value, a knowledgeable salesperson can be of assistance in judging cut, clarity, carat and color qualities. Preference should be given to experienced jewelers. In fact, if you purchase a diamond outside the normal outlets, it's a smart idea to have a trusted jeweler evaluate the diamond either before you purchase it or within the return period.

Once you have sorted through your options for antique diamond rings and found the one you want, be sure to take proper steps to care for it. Diamonds tend to attract grease and oils naturally so always remove them when using hand lotions or creams and keep them clean with a mild cleaning from time to time.

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The Blue Diamond Engagement Ring

by Alice Sy

Diamonds are clear and sparkling stones but diamonds can also come in different colors. Diamonds signify wealth, style and elegance.

Blue diamond engagement rings are very unique and beautiful. They can be quite expensive because of its rarity and the process that it underwent before obtaining its enhanced color and quality. Its color is what makes it really expensive. But those who buy such rings are not really after the price but its uniqueness.

That's why blue diamond engagement rings are very magnificent and impressing when used as a symbol of commitment and engagement. They can be considered as very special gifts and treasures.

There are several grand names given to the largest and most popular blue diamonds: Blue Empress, Heart of Eternity and Hope.

Blue diamonds are considered to be one of the rarest types of diamonds in the world. Natural blue diamonds are almost non-existent, that is why anyone who is offered with "natural blue diamonds" should always check the genuineness of such gems before purchasing.

Blue diamonds are one of those so-called fancy diamonds, meaning, they posses a strong and attractive and appealing color. They have undergone a diamond treatment process called irradiation wherein they obtain their blue color. Most fancy diamonds are more expensive than the colorless or plain ones because of this process.

If you are wondering where the color blue in blue diamonds come from, wonder no more. The small amount of boron that has been trapped in the diamonds crystal structure is the key element responsible for its color. And this also makes blue diamonds conducive to electricity.

To those who are interested in buying a blue diamond engagement ring, you must know that the darker the color blue, it means that it has a better quality. And remember that most blue diamonds available in the market today are manmade. And always check the genuineness of the item you are buying.

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July 28, 2008

Antique Diamond Rings Carry A Lot Of History

by Grace Jennings

Many diamond shoppers prefer antique diamond rings and jewelry because of the history associated with them. One of the fist decisions to be made about before buying a diamond is whether to choose treated or untreated stones. Purists prefer untreated while others believe that treated varieties make for enhanced color and other unique characteristics. In either event, any and all laboratory enhancements must be made clear to the buyer and detailed on the sales receipt.



Historically, Only Royalty Were Allowed To Wear Diamonds



The Georgian Period, named for the procession of kings named George, was a period known for handmade jewelry with new cuts gaining in popularity and demand. Since diamonds were most exclusively used at the beginning of the period, larger stones were replaced with a combination of smaller diamonds portraying a cascade manifestation.



It should come as no surprise given the history of diamonds that Europeans of the 15th Century first introduced the gem as a formal engagement and wedding ring. Many of the time viewed them as a representation of fortitude, innocence, prosperity and faithfulness. By today's standards, the wedding ring symbolizes an eternal commitment with no ending and, in contrast to the days of past, the main consideration is given to the ring's appearance.



Common quality characteristics are known as the four Cs and include carat, cut, color and clarity. While love is typically the reason we buy engagement rings, it's wise to pay attention to the market value of your purchase as well. Knowing the basics of how they are evaluated will help you choose the best diamond for your budget.



When selecting the perfect stone, some believe that size is the most important thing. In fact, many believe that the larger the carat, the more expensive the ring. However, there are other factors that come into play when determining price. One of these factors is the color grading system. For example, colorless diamonds are the most expensive while a noticeable yellow color will cost less.



Although there are many mounting styles to choose for your antique ring, many choose the prong setting. The prong setting allows for more of the diamond to be viewed and can accommodate a larger size. This style choice is often less expensive than many other styles as well.



The cut can enhance a diamond's sparkle and provide a window into its owner's personality. Generally, someone wearing a round cut displays security and a family centered personality. On the other hand, an individual sporting a marquise cut tends to have a career-centered personality.



Finding antique diamond rings can be a fun and rewarding experience. Just remember to follow the appropriate guidelines for quality, look for authentication and proper mounting. Perhaps the most important qualification is that you or your gift recipient like the way it looks and will enjoy wearing it.


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July 26, 2008

Antique Diamond Engagement Ring

by Alice Sy

Diamonds remain to be one of the most sought-after possessions for they represent perfection, beauty, power, and wealth. Among all gemstones, a diamond is considered the most suitable particularly in engagements.



An engagement ring is a piece of jewelry worn with much value. Engagement rings oftentimes lead to a wonderful union between two lives. History affirms that engagement rings came about in 1215 when Pope Innocent III declared an interlude for marriages. In those times, as promise from the man that he would not abandon his woman during the waiting period, a simple metal band was given to the woman.



These bands were later enhanced and accentuated with gemstones and eventually came to be known as engagement rings.



Today, modern technology provides for wide varieties of diamond engagement rings, perfectly cut and ornamented. Yet despite the boom of contemporary designs made of famous brands, many couples still prefer heirloom or antique engagement ring.



An antique diamond engagement ring has its unique charm that cannot be found in mass marketed jewelries. Passed from generation to generation, antique diamond engagement rings bear witness to unconditional, endless loves. It brings ardent hope of lasting bond for the would-be couple.



Any ring over 50 years of existence is an antique. Antique diamond engagement rings are often lavishly designed. They have distinctly varied designs, including Victorian, Edwardian, and Art-Deco, to name a few. It could even be said that no two antique rings are ever the same, as none of them could ever have identical cuts.



Antique rings unlike the new fashioned rings, made out of state of the art technology, are not perfectly cut but this very imperfection adds even more to the ingenuity and uniqueness of each piece.



Though rare, you can still get hold of antique diamond engagement rings if you are clever and patient enough to search for it. Here are some suggestions:



You can first rummage your mother's jewelry box, who knows what prized possession you might find in there. You can go to a certified and trusted jeweler who may guide you in your quest. You can go to a pawnshop or visit an antique/vintage store. You can attend estate sales where you can find estate rings; these are newer rings, not yet antique, but are on their way to becoming so.



And of course, use the internet to get quick access about these timeless masterpieces.


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Design a Wedding Ring, But Choose the Right Designer

by Geraldine Dimarco

The choice of wedding rings a couple makes has great significance. This should not be rushed as they will wear these rings all the time they are married. Do not rush this, particularly if you are interested in having someone design a wedding ring for you. The location of your nearest jeweler who stocks wedding rings could be found on the Internet. Many people, however, make the mistake of going to a jewelry store in a mall.



Although you will undoubtedly find you can buy this type of ring in a mall jewelers, they may not have the range or the quality of a specialist. When choosing, you will want a ring for the bride that will complement the engagement ring she is already wearing. That's why having a designer design a wedding ring for you could be your best option.



Do not allow yourself to be swayed by a wedding ring that will, as soon as it is worn, spoil the look of the engagement ring; some rings have been made to complement each other and these should be the type you seek. Try on different wedding bands and sit them next to the engagement ring to see how they look together.



The most commonly sought after metals for rings are White Gold, Platinum, Titanium, Yellow Gold and Rose Gold, although increasing numbers of couples are choosing the longer lasting platinum over the white gold or titanium options. Obviously, if you're after a yellor or rose colored ring, you'll opt for yellow gold or rose gold, though.



Ensuring the wedding rings fit perfectly is essential. Try to imagine that neither ring fitting on the wedding day and you will understand why this is so important. It is just as important to ensure the rings are not so loose that there is a chance they will be lost.



If you want to make sure your rings are ready in good time for the wedding, give your jeweler plenty of time to complete any adjustments. He may have a number to complete and you do not want a problem on the wedding day. There are many different styles and materials to choose from when picking your wedding bands; it may take you some time to find the perfect one.



Wedding rings represent the love two people have for one another. Perhaps now, the reason for the time spent choosing a ring has been made clearer.


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Is It Safe To Buy Jewelry Online? In Depth Review of www.JTV.com

by Megge Enots

If you are considering a gift for that special someone in your life, jewelry has always been an excellent choice. Now, with the advent of the internet, shopping has become very convenient however the customer service and quality of certain products when purchased online has diminished. After looking at various online retailers, jewelrytelevision.com emerged as the leader in quality jewelry and gemstones sold directly to the consumer.



The jewelry TV site shipped about five and a half million packages to customers last year. They work very hard to ensure that the jewelry they send out gets to its destination on time. They run online specials and advertisements that you can receive via email. Therefore, if you are shopping for jewelry for someone special or for yourself, the place to look is JTV.



The summer time brings with it a floury of wedding anniversaries and birthdays. No matter what the occasion or what time of year, you can rest assured that Jewelry TV will have a well publicized special to assist you in finding the best gift for less. Today when we are all running behind schedule, jewelrytelevision.com provides the convenience and speed for last minute shoppers.



Because most of us are so over loaded with activities, Jewelry Television goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that your shopping experience is simple and easy. They continuously seek customer advice as to how they can enhance the total shopping experience.



When you receive your order from jewelry TV, you will find a pre-addressed return label on the invoice for your order for returning your purchase if you are not completely satisfied. Now how many companies do you know that do this?



What if you are not sure about ordering jewelry online and are simply looking to browse their large selection of gems and jewelry? The best part about online retailers like JewleryTelevision.com is that you have access to many of their coupons, promotional offers and selected hour specials before you become a customer. Sign up for their ezine and you'll have the best deals delivered right to your inbox.



One thing you probably did not know about jewelry television is they have buyers that go out of their way to find the perfect gems. Their trips to Bangkok and Madagascar are just part of the customer service provided for you. This is where they can go straight to the mines and bring back some of the most beautiful gems that you will ever see.



www.JTV.com respects the privacy of their customers, and does not sell or trade any of their customer data with any company. So don't worry, your personal information is safe with JTV. You can also rest assured that your transaction is completely private and secure. They use a special triple layer security system designed with your privacy in mind.



If your tastes vary from sporty or fun, casual or dressy: you can shop watches or bracelets for any budget. Everything you need for collecting gems and creating jewelry is only one click away. Join the tens of thousands of others who have made JTV.com their online jewelry and gemstone website of choice.


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4 Cs Explained - Diamond Clarity, Cut, Color And Carat

by Grace Jennings

If you admire diamonds, then you need to know diamond quality so that you can judge whether or not you're making a good diamond purchase and are being charged fairly for it. Most basically, you need to understand the four Cs. These include cut, color, clarity, and carat.



You have to examine a diamond carefully if you want to tell what its quality is. After you purchase a diamond, you'll also need to take care of it to maintain its beauty and quality.



Diamond Cuts



The diamond cut is comprised of two particular qualities that make up its appearance: its make and shape. A diamond's shape depends somewhat on its original form, of course, but a round brilliant cut is considered most desirable. This type of cut is made with 58 facets, which gives a diamond its most brilliant look. Marquees, princess and radiant cuts are also considered of higher value than other shapes.



A diamond cut's make determines the quality or craft of the workmanship performed. Therefore, if a diamond has a better make, it has better sparkle and fully brings out all of the diamond's best qualities. This heavily influences a diamond's beauty.



Color And Diamonds



Diamonds come in all sorts of colors, not just the common white we all tend to think of. Diamond color is categorized using an alphabetical list which ranges from the letters D through X, for white and yellow diamonds, such that D represents the whitest color and growing into fancy yellow color at S. Diamond colors E and F are generally admired for their excellence and beauty while J to M are regarded as desirable colors for larger diamonds. Diamonds treated with radiation are often found in green, pink, red, blue, and brown colors.



Diamond Clarity



Diamond clarity, too, is considered important when determining diamond quality. Diamonds considered most precious are flawless or perfectly clear, both inside and on the surface. Next on the list in quality are those diamonds that are internally flawless but that have some minor imperfections on the surface. Diamonds with inclusions within that are less clear and those where inclusions can actually be seen with the naked eye are considered the lowest on the clarity scale.



Diamond Carats



A diamond's carats will tell you how big it is. Of the four diamond qualities, a diamond's carat is considered last because a diamond's cut, clarity and color are considered to be more important. However, a diamond's size and weight also influences how much you can be charged for it.



Points are used to measure carat weight with one carat equalling 100 points, a half carat 50, etc. Price is determined to levels as low as 5 to 10 points, so the weight measurement is critical to know.



Understanding the four Cs of dertimining diamond quality will enable you to be a smart shopper and find the best diamond value for your money. You'll be able to get a lot of quality at a fair price.


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5 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring

by Alice Sy

Eternity is something long to commit. And the assurance of it will take you forever to express which you might forget sometime in your life as you live it with your special someone.



And so to remind the eternity that you want to offer to your loved one, and to know that the promise will definitely won't break, a priceless gesture of giving her the expensive diamond engagement ring will give her the idea that the eternity you offer is something that you really value, and she should too.



The 5 carat diamond engagement ring might be an expensive idea for a band but it will make a great impact to the one whom you will give it to. Diamonds of this kind are big and you should have the band around it as simple as possible to give emphasis to the stone.



Since the one that you are looking for is very hard to look for and risky as well, it is recommended that you look for your ideal 5 carat diamond engagement ring online so you can see it closely plus it has description to give you an idea of which design you will choose.



And they can also be availed on an installment basis so that is quite a nice deal for those who want to be practical with elegance.



One best buy and is usually the choice of celebrities is the Zirconia diamond engagement ring. Its blackish- colored band will be an object of everyone's attention and the woman who wears it will make her feel so special. It is because of the uniqueness of the ring and it is something that you really don't see anywhere everyday.



Among the celebrities who made 5 carat diamond engagement ring such a popular choice was Tom Cruise, who gave an oval shaped diamond with pave setting to Katie Holmes. Kate Hudson also had hers from her rock star husband which was an asscher cut. Madonna also had one from Guy Ritchie. So that's one way to make your fianc feel like a celebrity as well.



In spite of the expensive value of a 5 carat diamond engagement ring, this ring is one ideal and the most elegant idea that you give to your special someone to let her feel how much you are willing to spend and to go to for her. Winning her affection can be done with something glittering, not because of materialism, but the thought that it measures, the weigh of love.


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