4 Cs of Diamonds - The Secret to Diamond Appraisal

Author: Hary Markus

The secret behind the appraisal of any diamond lies in what is referred to as "the 4 Cs", namely Carat, Cut, Clarity and Color. These 4 Cs will assure that you know exactly what you are getting in a diamond and once you embrace them and use them to make your purchase, getting a nice bargain becomes a lot easier.

Carat is the first attribute that is used to calculate the quality and value of a diamond. It refers to the weight and therefore the size of a diamond. It is the measure of the mass of a diamond with 1 carat equal to 200 milligrams. It is further subdivided into 100 decimal points to make up 1 carat. This unit of measurement is unique to precious gemstones and is often confused with size even though it is actually a measure of weight.

Cut is the second attribute determining the quality and value of a diamond. Although most often people refer to cut as diamond shapes, being a round brilliant or a fancy shape, the real analysis of the cut refers to the proportions, finish, symmetry, and polish of the diamond. These factors determine the fire and brilliance of a diamond which are crucial in the overall appraisal.

Color is the next attribute in the 4 Cs equation. It refers to the perceived color or more precisely lack of color in a diamond. With the exclusion of "fancy colored diamonds", the more colorless the diamond is, the more valuable it is. Diamonds within this colorless range are the most rare and valuable of all the colors.

Clarity is the last of the 4 Cs and refers to the lack of or presence of internal and external imperfections as seen under 10x magnification. Because diamonds are crystallised carbon atoms under immense pressure and temperature, almost all diamonds contain minute traces of non-crystallized carbon or small non-diamond crystals. The number, size, location and nature of these imperfections found will determine the clarity grade pertaining to the diamond. Regarding the appraisal of the particular stone, the fewer imperfections found, the more valuable it will be.

Combining these 4 attributes together will enable the appraisal of any loose diamond or even a jewelry item which is set with diamonds. The "Rapaport Price List" has set the standard when applying the 4 Cs and experts worldwide in the jewelry industry refer to this list as the benchmark of diamond appraisal.

Should you require further information regarding the 4 Cs of diamonds, please visitwww.diamondbuyersguides.com/the-4cs.
D. Franck, also known as "Davolfan", is a qualified gemologist by trade and is active in the South African Rough Diamond Market.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/4-cs-of-diamonds-the-secret-to-diamond-appraisal-4453957.html

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Diamond Necklaces : The Perfect Accessory for Women

Author: pournima

Diamonds are the true expression of one's feelings and can touch the heart and soul of the ones wearing it. A diamond necklace enhances the beauty of any woman. The glitter of the diamonds compliments the sparkle of her eyes. It is an everlasting stone. The beauty of a diamond is breathtaking. These necklaces bring out the best in every woman irrespective of their age and look.

Nowadays, everybody has become more fashion conscious whether it is regarding their wardrobe or jewellery. Since diamond accessories are available in uncountable designs and styles, teaming a piece of jewellery with any outfit have become a fashion trend. However, care should be taken to ensure that the diamonds you invest in are flawless. There should be no discoloration, the diamond should not be chipped and also no spots in the diamond. It will shine and sparkle when the sun hits it, and it will glow like none other. When this diamond is in the form of necklace or pendants, it highlights the neck.

There are two basic types of Diamond Necklaces: the full diamond necklace and the diamond pendant necklace.

Diamond necklaces feature single or multiple diamonds which are attached or set in the links of a chain which encircles the neck. The diamonds can also be interwoven with the strands of gold or platinum forming the chain and set in such a way that they make up the links of the chain itself. Diamonds are available in the form of collars and chain which can be designed in a variety of styles. Diamond necklaces are expensive compared to diamond pendants.

The second type of diamond necklace is the pendant type for which a small piece of jewellery is hung from a separate chain. Because the pendant is not part of the chain it can be easily transferred from one chain to another chain. It also has different styles and lengths of chain. There are many different types and styles of pendants available in the market. Compared to others Heart diamond pendants are especially popular also these can come in other shapes and variety of styles. They tend to be cheaper than full diamond necklaces.

Diamonds, if properly maintained are truly a stone to be treasured forever. Graceful and elegant, a diamond necklace looks spectacular no matter what else you're wearing. Diamond necklaces are one that will attract attention immediately.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/diamond-necklaces-the-perfect-accessory-for-women-4381484.html

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For more info: http://www.rpsjewellers.com/

Types of Rings in the UK

Author: David Fox

The UK jewellery market is huge. With a wealth of different companies operating in a very competitive marketplace, jewellery products can be found almost anywhere. They are highly sought after products and customers come from far and wide to purchase them. Of course, there are many different jewellery items customers can buy, but what is important is that the customer finds something they like and they also experience a pleasant shop that will enable them to come back.

The jewellery market is made up of many different items. Some of the popular ones include necklaces, bracelets, pendants and earrings. However, there is one item that is purchased more than anything else – rings. Rings are purchased in the UK on an extremely large scale and take up the majority of the jewellery market. There are many different types of rings in the UK that people can buy and here is a list of some of the features people would look for when purchasing them.

Second, different rings have different stone types. Again the most common ones are cubic zirconia and diamond rings, whilst sapphire, pearl, ruby, topaz, tanzanite, opal, garnet, swarovski crystal, aquamarine, crystal, onyx, amethyst, citrine, emerald, peridot and quartz can also be purchased. Obviously, some are better than others but again it always comes down to what each individual customer wants and what they like best.

Third, there are further different types of rings in the UK. Different stone shapes can be found at a variety of retailers. Some of the most common ones include brilliant, round and heart, whilst oval, emerald, marquise, princess, baguette and square can also be found. Again, different styles appeal to different consumers. Some consumers like big square rings to go with their own style whilst other, perhaps more sophisticated ladies will only ever wear princess cut rings.

There are many other factors too which affect the look and style of rings. Colour is one of these as one colour can make a ring look completely different from the next. Carat weight can also make a big impact on the style, particularly in terms of its sparkle and gleam.

Rings can also be bought for different occasions, and some of the most special ones are made specifically as engagement rings and wedding rings. These can be however, at the top end of the market and are only ever purchased for the occasion.

So as you have read, there are many different types of rings in the UK and all of them are suitable for someone somewhere. It is always the individual’s decision which one to buy but a decision will be made with all the necessary information to hand and based on which one they like best.

About the Author:

The author works for Ernest Jones and rings can be found at Ernest Jones


Rings.

Engagement Rings.

Wedding Rings.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Types of Rings in the UK

Diamonds Are Forever

Author: Benard Worseley

Diamonds may be forever, but diamond rings mean more than forever. It means the rest of your life. When one buys a diamond necklace for a woman, it simply shows love or just a desire to buy a nice gift. But a diamond ring says "I love you and want to marry you." Along with the sentiment involved, diamond rings are extremely expensive. How many couples have put off beginning their lives together because they were unable to shoulder the financial burden of a piece of jewellery?
If you can afford a nice ring, there is a wide range of options available. You can spend $500 or $500,000, depending on how much money you are willing and able to spend. If you can afford a more expensive ring, then you should get the best you can afford. Skimping when you have the cash does not show your woman that you value her and want her to have the best you can give her. However, those who can afford very expensive diamond rings are few and far between. Most men (and women) fall under the category of someone who simply doesn’t have the available cash for extremely expensive diamond rings.
There are many options for a man who wants to find a quality ring for an affordable price. First of all, diamond rings don’t have to be diamond. Although many people would say that a fake diamond or a cubic zirconium shows that the love isn’t real, that is simply unreasonable. You shouldn’t have to put off a marriage because of financial reasons. So one option is to get a beautiful setting but fill the space for the gemstones with lab-created diamonds of cubic zirconium. They give the appearance of expensive jewellery without the cost. Of course, if you go for this option, you need to make sure that your girlfriend is agreeable. Then, as the marriage progressed and you became more financially stable, you could replace the gems with real diamonds. You can even make it an anniversary tradition – every anniversary, replace one of the gems with real diamonds.
When purchasing diamond rings, most people go in knowing next to nothing about gem quality. Most consumers don’t know much beyond sparkly or not sparkly, and let’s face it. In the store, all diamond rings are sparkly. However, you can speak to a knowledgeable salesman about the different qualities of rings. It is better to buy a smaller diamond at a higher quality than a bigger but flawed diamond. It is perfectly acceptable to have a starter ring, with the understanding that you will be replacing the ring when financing allows. If you are going to get married, the main perk shouldn’t be the ring. If a small ring is a deal breaker, you should probably reconsider your relationship.
Another way to get great diamond rings for lower prices is to consider antiques. The best thing about an antique is that it also has history and meaning. It is even better if you can find antique diamond rings from your or her family. A great-grandmother’s antique ring means more than one found in the store. If you don’t have any diamond rings in your family, you can always seek out antiques at jewellery stores. You can also check out pawn shops, where you can often find beautiful diamond rings for a fraction of the price.
Above all, it is important to understand what your girlfriend likes. Does she like yellow or white gold? Does she prefer something simple or something more complex? One ring set or a fancy engagement ring matched with a simple band? A solitaire? It also helps to know what diamond shape she likes. Also, you should try to get her ring size ahead of time. This can be done by examining rings she wears on a regular basis. Or, you can try to find out her ring size in a trickier way. Either way, you want to make sure that the ring is in her style. This can help to assure that you will pick out perfect diamond rings.

About the Author:

I am 23 year old student on my last year of study at the University of Sydney (Sydney), majoring in Information technology.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/diamonds-are-forever-799790.html

Should You Invest In Certified Diamonds?

Science & Technology,Research,Consumer


Diamonds
Investors are in a quandary about where to put their money. The real estate bubble has burst. The stock markets are falling. Economic experts say the global economy is teetering on the edge of a grand recession. What's an investor to do?

Precious Metals And Gemstones

When wise investors don't trust the economic system created by humankind, they look to the assets Mother Nature creates: precious metals like platinum, gold, copper and silver, and precious gemstones like certified diamonds.

What Are Certified Diamonds?

Diamonds are made of pure carbon, the hardest natural substance known to exist on Earth. These gemstones are so valuable because mining them is expensive and labor intensive, and the mining process yields uncertain results.

Experts estimate that workers must mine and process up to 250 tons of ore to produce a one carat, gem quality stone suitable for use in jewelry. Only about one-fifth of all mined stones are considered to be of gemstone quality. These gemstones are cut and faceted according to specifications to enhance the natural properties of the gemstone, and these stones are then used in the jewelry business. The other four-fifths of mined stones are used for diamond saw blades, miscellaneous cutting instruments, and other industrial applications.

Grading

Gem-quality diamonds are graded from based on color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Color grades range from "D" to "Z," with a perfectly colorless stone receiving a grade of "D", and a yellow stone being graded "Z". Investors seek stones graded "I" or better.

The clarity grade measures imperfections that affect the purity of the stone. Internally flawless diamonds receive an "IF" grade, while flawed diamonds receive an "I3" grade.

Cut refers to the shape of the stone: round, heat, marquise, pear-shaped, emerald-cut, oval, and radiant. Carat is the standard unit used to measure the weight of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams.

Who Certifies Diamonds?

Investment quality certified stones are certified by independent laboratories whose business is to certify gemstones, not sell them. Most gemstone wholesalers and brokers insist on certification by either of the two most reliable certifying bodies in the business: the GIA, or the Gemological Institute of America, and the EGL, European Gemological Laboratory.

How Much Do They Cost?

Certified diamonds are a trading commodity, so their prices can vary. The rarity of high grade certified stones is reflected in their price. An "E" grade, half-carat, emerald cut diamond can cost nearly $1,300, while an "H" grade, three-carat emerald cut diamond can cost more than $24,000.

Will They Increase In Value?

Like any investment, certified gemstones fluctuate in value. Generally speaking, larger gemstones will increase in value faster than smaller stones, so investors should purchase the largest certified stones they can afford rather than investing in quantities of smaller diamonds.

Economists report that certified diamonds have provided a 30 percent return on investment over the last five years, and that rate of return is expected to increase another 10 to 20 percent in the next few years. With wealthy, cash-rich Chinese investors entering the market in the near future, some analysts have predicted a 100% increase in prices of certified diamonds in the next five to ten years.


David Cowley has created numerous articles on Diamonds. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to Diamonds. Visit Diamonds

Wholesale Designer Jewelry

Author: Clint Jhonson

Something that has a raging success on the market today is jewelry. This is something that both men and women can purchase for themselves or for a loved one, because it makes the perfect option if you want to offer to the receiver something special to remember you buy.

Business ideas pop up everywhere you go. If you have an idea about a business, what is holding you back from starting it? Your answer would most likely be because it is too hard, too complicated and you never know if it will be profitable.

None of the reasons mentioned afore is condemnable. I mean, let’s face it, the way things are going right now, starting your own business is like putting a gun to your own head. If you want to have your own business and make sure that you are assured from most points of view, let me tell you about an option that you never known until now which is also guaranteed to bring results.

Since there are so many options you can jump on and start your own business, keep in mind that jewelry items are here to stay. Because of this let me tell you about a little secret that can help you. The best idea about a business is to sell jewelry.

I know that you’re thinking you have no experience about this field and you don’t know how many items you will be able to sell. Indeed a concerning fact, but not with the solution I have for you. With the right source of wholesale designer jewelry you are a few seconds away from guaranteed success.

Wholesale designer jewelry that can be a success is not easy to come by and there are lots of times when you might be fooled and robbed. If you really want to overcome any suspicion about the products, you should visit the website ka-gold-jewelry.com.

Wholesale designer jewelry means that you can purchase jewelry products from the website mentioned afore without too many risks. Because they are sold in large packages, they have a much lower price than as if they would be sold individually.

Another great advantage about purchasing wholesale designer jewelry from the website mentioned afore is the refund. In case things do not go as planned and you do not have the success you were hoping for, you can return products and you will get your money back. Thus you are sure that you won’t lose your money even if your results don’t meet your expectations.

Now that the problems of the costs have been eliminated, there is the problem of the quality of the products. At this chapter you have nothing worry about. Only high quality materials are used for the fabrication of the items. The dedication put in every design is like nothing you have ever seen and all the products are submitted to a deep meditation process before they head for the customer.

The last and most important piece of the puzzle is the design. Significant symbols from cultures all over the world have been gathered and transformed into jewelry pieces so that you can enjoy the lot with wholesale designer jewelry.

About the Author:

Business ideas that involve small risks are hard to come by. The wholesale designer jewelry offer from the website mentioned afore assures you that you will make a sound investment into your future.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/wholesale-designer-jewelry-765777.html

Fashion Jewelry To Match Your Moods

If you are a person who wants to look good in everyway then this article will pacify your fashion instincts a bit. Find the best fashion jewelry to compliment your dress worn casually or at parties and ceremonies.

Is it like you always keep wondering to wear the perfect jewelry that goes with your dress, I may guide you what to wear with your favorite dresses.

Casual kind people should spice up their looks with light gemstone jewelry or custom gemstone beaded jewelry that is available at the most affordable rates in the market. Have a collection of this exquisite gemstone jewelry in different colors and designs in your wardrobe and you can wear these with your day-to-day clothes. You can add sparkle in your looks by adoring cool diamond studded earrings or diamond hoops that can be worn on all occasions or daily with every dress you prefer to wear.

People preferring to wear tiptop dresses should go for discount diamond jewelry or handcrafted cheap pearl jewelry. A spectacular shine of a diamond can work wonders for you to look stunningly beautiful. Diamonds-the most precious and most expensive are available in different varieties and shapes too. Take a pick from your nearest or online jewelry store where you can find wholesale discount diamond jewelry to match your costumes perfectly.

If you are want to look good in a shimmering silver jewelry then you should go for trendy wholesale fashion sterling silver jewelry. Jewelry to go with all dresses, silver jewelry is the favorite choice from the ancient times. You can find the best silver jewelry sets at the most reasonable rates in the market.

In evening functions and parties you must wear some eye-catching jewelry that glorifies your beauty in all ways. Always try to adore titanium amethyst jewelry, glittering gold jewelry, platinum jewelry, antique silver jewelry, black or white diamond jewelry or sparkling gemstones to relish your inner self-esteem wearing these outstanding designs.


Give your looks a boost of the day by complimenting your dress with the perfect wholesale jewelry and carry yourself lavishly in a cool and contended attitude


About the Author
Written by Maximum Hit this article defines the refined designer jewelry tips that can guide you in knowing the latest jewelry trends in the market. To know more about the latest trendy designs in engagement rings visit our Wholesale jewelry store for latest Wedding Rings

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