Your Guide To Choosing and Buying Diamonds

If you are in the market for loose diamonds, a diamond ring, diamond pendant or any other piece of jewelry containing diamonds, then selecting the right diamond will ensure that you are paying a reasonable price for your purchase. Before you buy a diamond, there are some things you need to keep in mind when doing your search:

The 4Cs – Carat, color, clarity and cut are what is known as the “4Cs” of diamonds. Decide which ones are most important to you and make your purchase decision based on that determination. A fifth “C” is cost, which will ultimately determine what you are willing to pay for any given diamond.

Certificate, Please – Low cost diamonds are available for purchase, but they aren’t worth considering if they don’t have an accompanying certificate from the Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A.) or the American Gem Society (A.G.S.). A certificate acts a “grading report” for each diamond (as in the case of the G.I.A.) where 3-6 gemologists will review each diamond independently and assign a final grade to it. Diamonds sold without certification are considered suspect and should be avoided.

Shop Around – Whether purchasing your diamonds online or at your local Kay Jewelers or other mall retailer, compare diamonds, prices, service, and more from retailer to retailer. Of course, you cannot touch or wear an online jeweler’s diamond ring in advance of your purchase, but you should familiarize yourself with the market by visiting your Macy’s, Fortunoff or other fine jeweler first. Compare your mall retailer with a reputable online retailer’s diamonds and once you see the price differential, guess where you’ll be buying your jewelry from now on? Online!

Let’s Rap! – No I don’t mean urban music, rather familiarize yourself with the Rapaport Diamond Report, which lists wholesale diamond prices for New York. Why New York? Because, that city is the nerve center for diamond pricing world-wide. “The Rap” is the leading source of diamond pricing and market information developed for the diamond industry. It is accepted as the international standard used to establish prices in all the major cutting centers and dealer markets. The average consumer may not be all that interested in what Rapaport has to say, but if you are investing in diamonds you should definitely subscribe.

Returns, Shipping, Guaranty, Etc. – If you buy a diamond engagement ring what is the retailer’s return policy? 30 days is reasonable in this industry. If buying an engagement ring online, who pays shipping and is it insured? What other guaranty or warranty is offered? Of course, when buying online being able to pick up a phone and chat with a representative is reassuring as well as operating from a secured internet site that protects your personal financial information is essential.

The more you learn about diamonds before your purchase one, the better for your wallet. Then again, if you choose a diamond engagement ring without considering her personal tastes then everything I said is moot. In that case, start over again and find out what type of diamond she really wants and budget yourself accordingly.

Lost & Found: Expensive Diamond Rings Recovered!

If you’re searching for bad news, you’ll find plenty of it by visiting your favorite internet site, tuning in to broadcast news, or by scanning the radio waves. Just for a few moments we’ll leave the gloom and doom stories to CNN and share with you three heartwarming accounts of diamond rings lost, but later recovered. Like lost jewelry, even good news can be found again.

Owner Found for $40K Diamond Engagement Ring
Misplacing jewelry is a common occurrence, but losing a ring valued at more than $40,000 and having the finders go out of their way to reunite the ring with its owner is certainly a rare event. Especially when the clues to identifying ownership are somewhat limited.
Fortunately, this story has a happy ending as the couple who found the ring, Keith and Linda Stetzer, were able to reunite the 3.02 carat solitaire diamond ring with Susan Brahms, the ring’s rightful owner.

In a story that received national headlines, the Stetzers uncovered the engagement ring when they found it in dirt adjacent to a concrete barrier in a Tysons Corner, VA parking garage. The company contacted Mervis Diamond Importers when they noticed the “Mervis” inscription on the band, but Jonathan Mervis – the third generation of jewelers to operate the family business – wasn’t confident that the owner would be located even with that important piece of information.

Happily, news of the missing diamond ring got plenty of air time and it wasn’t long after that when Susan Brahm’s husband, Mark, called claiming he had a certificate in his possession identifying his wife as the owner. The Stetzers immediately brought the ring to Mervis who confirmed that it did, indeed, belong to Susan Brahms as the size and dimension of the ring matched and a rare inscription of “Mervis 2000” was found on the band.

Most encouraging was that neither the Stetzers nor Jonathan Mervis and his wife were comfortable with keeping the ring as both couples wanted to make sure that its owner was found. Mervis expected to sell the ring if the owner didn’t step forward, planning to donate the proceeds of that sale to charity, exactly what the Stetzers did with the reward money given to them by the Brahms.

Fake Ring Turns Out To Be Worth $9000!
In another story about a missing diamond ring recovered, an Arkansas women lost her 1.26 carat engagement ring while shopping at Wal-Mart only to have it found by a six year old girl who thought it was a fake.

Bryant Wal-Mart security cameras spotted the girl picking up the ring in the store’s parking lot and with police help managed to track down the family and reunite the ring with the woman who was wed just last month. When viewing the video, police saw the family’s vehicle and were able to determine which dealership sold their truck to them. The truck’s registration revealed the correct owner whose child’s newly found play thing was actually worth more than nine thousand dollars.

Boy Find Missing Rings In The Toilet
The thought of dropping a toothbrush in the toilet and fishing it out again sounds awful, but the action of a ten year old boy in Chatham, MA helped to reunite a pair of long lost diamond wedding rings with the daughter of the home’s former owner.

Cameron Delonde discovered a pair of rings in the toilet and, with his father’s help, contacted the real estate agent who sold the house to them for help locating the previous owner. The owner’s daughter was found who, along with her brother, realized that these family heirlooms were missing when their mother died fives years ago, never expecting them to be found.
Chris’ father recalled the feelings he had when a favorite ring of his was stolen and was determined to return the rings to its owner.

Inspiring news can be hard to come by, but the kindness of strangers bent on doing the right thing is certainly something to be celebrated.

Iced Diamonds, When You Can’t Afford To Give Her The Best!

Iced diamonds, the perfect gift for those times when you just cannot afford to give her your very best!

You’re in love and you want to seal your relationship with a diamond solitaire engagement ring. However, you have a huge problem — you’re flat broke. So, instead of getting her an expensive ring, you do the next best thing: you take a look at cubic zirconia jewelry and realize you cannot even afford the faux diamond either.

What is an impoverished guy to do?!

Well, if you have some imagination and she has a sense of humor, why not give her lots of diamonds — even a glass full — and win her heart that way?

Novelty retailer Fred and Friends has the exact item you need, a diamond making device that uses an important ingredient — water! That’s right, these diamonds are made of 100% H2O, the most abundant molecule on the face of the earth.

Just fill up the flexible tray with water (or your favorite liquid), stick the tray in the freezer, and hours later six three dimensional diamond shaped “cool jewels” are ready for sharing. Place them in a glass and serve them to her and she’ll have more diamonds from you than she can imagine.

The cost? About one dollar per diamond or $6 for the tray when purchased from Amazon or other online retailer. You won’t be able to turn the iced diamonds into an engagement ring with sidestones, but you can spread some cheer and perhaps buy enough time to save up your money to purchase the real thing.
Cheers!

See And Be Seen With Diamonds!

I had to let out a chuckle today when I was reading the Jewelry Insider blog, a site that takes a look at the fashion side of the jewelry business.

The blogger was sharing her insights regarding the U.S. Open (tennis) Tournament which is now taking place in New York City. As she noted, many of the tennis stars are fond of showing off some bling while they’re playing, recalling an incident in 2005 where Serena Williams dropped one of her $40,000 diamond chandelier earrings in the middle of her 6-1, 6-3 dispatching of Taiwan’s Yung-Jan Chan.

Hit It With Diamonds!
This year, Serena has been outdone by upstart teen tennis sensation Asia Muhammad who decided to adorn her pink tennis racquet with a diamond. That’s right, a diamond! Thanks to the work of Las Vegas jeweler Michael E. Minden, Asia’s racquet (pictured) has been custom fitted with 1.00ctw of VS quality pave set diamonds in 2 letter A’s which can be found just above her grip.

“This is the first time I’ve actually put diamonds on a piece of athletic equipment,” notes Minden. “However, we came up with a special process to affix it to the racquet, with a special technology to transfer the letters to a new racquet when Asia wears out the first one. The same diamonds can be added to a golf club, and makes a very exclusive gift for any exceptional athlete in most any sport.”

Let’s Play Tennis!
The price for each letter? A cool $1750 which includes installation. Tennis, anyone?

Who paid record price for 101 carat diamond?

A 101-carat colourless diamond the size of a squash ball sold for a record $HK46.2 million ($6 million) at a Christie's auction in Hong Kong, a radio report said today.

The gem, the biggest colourless diamond ever sold in Asia and one of only three colourless diamonds over 100 carats ever sold, was bought by a private buyer on Wednesday.

Government-run radio station RTHK said today the buyer's identity was not being revealed but he would have the option to name the diamond, the most expensive single piece of jewellery sold in Asia.

Set in a tiara, it was the biggest colourless diamond to come up for auction anywhere in the world for 18 years, Christie's said.

Diamond prices have boomed in recent years partly because of the economic slowdown, with new buyers from Russia, India and Asia pushing auction prices higher.

Is Bigger Always Better?

Whether people like it or not, celebrities set the trends for what is in style for normal civilians. And of course, jewelry is no exception. Looks that stars wear on the red carpet are soon available in similar versions at jewelry stores for the common people. This is a simple fact. The trends seen in Hollywood are translated into the pieces seen in chain jewelry stores. In accordance with the current celebrity climate, big is definitely in. Stars are sporting hefty engagement rings. Paris Hilton had two from former fiancé Paris Lastis-one weighing 24 carats, the other 15 carats. Jennifer Lopez wore a 6-carat pink diamond ring while engaged to Ben Affleck. Catherine Zeta Jones received an antique 10-carat marquise diamond ring from Michael Douglas. The list goes on and on. Celebrities seem to be in a battle to determine who can get the biggest and priciest rings out of their men. Not only are engagement rings growing in size, but other kinds of jewelry as well are putting on weight. Celebrities are embracing the old Hollywood glamour style of chunky jewelry and lots of sparkle. Marilyn Monroe best summed up this style in singing, “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Jewelry of this style is big and bold, but also beautifully designed and artistic. As far as diamonds are concerned, the more the merrier, and the bigger the better rings true for this trend.

Big jewelry has a lot of good qualities. The pieces currently in style are large bringing about vast amounts of sparkle. This sparkle is eye catching and beautiful. It also attracts light to the face of the wearer, enhancing natural beauty. Big jewelry looks good on almost everyone when worn on appropriate occasions. Large engagement rings are a fun way to let the world know that one is off of the market. Although quite heavy, they are great tokens of love, and beautiful additions to women’s hands.

Unfortunately, one of the biggest drawbacks to big jewelry is the price tag. Large pieces, like those seen on the stars, are worn by celebritiesfor a reason. They can afford the jewelry. The average American doesn’t make nearly enough to buy an engagement ring even half of the size of some of the ones which celebrities wear. Cost factor aside, where can a normal person actually wear the type of jewelry that the stars wear? Average people don’t go to red carpet events where this type of adornment is considered normal. Depending upon where a person lives, they could have their hand chopped off walking down the street with a 10-carat diamond ring on their finger. At the very least, showy jewelry can look arrogant, out of place, and even fake if worn in the wrong circumstances. Sometimes, big jewelry just is not practical to wear.

How can one incorporate the trends of the stars into their own look affordably and appropriately? This is easy-downsize. Even though the hot look is big diamond pieces, the same look can be achieved using smaller pieces. Invest in one decent sized piece such as a necklace. Let this be the focal point. Compliment the big necklace with smaller sized diamond earrings and modest bracelets. If an impressive diamond ring is in one’s collection, use this as a platform on which to build a “big look” with smaller jewelry. Another way to achieve the look of Hollywood glamour is to layer one’s jewelry. Layering multiple simple diamond necklaces or bracelets is a great way to increase the shine factor without breaking the bank.

For those who would rather swim against the current trends, now is a great time to make a statement with smaller and more detailed jewelry pieces. To find pieces that drift away from the style of Hollywood, visit independent jewelers. Chain stores are most likely to tailor their merchandise to what style is currently hot. Independent jewelers often have better quality pieces that have individual flair. Many of these businesses will sit down with customers and help to custom create unique pieces that are following nobody else’s trend. In this manner, one can build a smaller but unique piece while still saving money. Wearing jewelry like that, one is sure to stand out from the crowd.

The look of Hollywood glamour is here to stay for awhile. As long as the celebrities are still sporting the big jewels in lavish settings that is what will be considered in style. With the right knowledge, average people can choose to successfully emulate the look of the stars on a small budget. One can also choose to break away and invent their own style on a small budget. Jewelry and diamonds are not just for the wealthy. Everyone can afford to look radiant in jewels with a little creativity and individuality.

The Decision Rules of Engagement Rings

A few points to review before you start shopping.




Shape matters

Even before those infamous 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat), you must know what shape your future fiancée loves. Shape indicates the actual geometry of the stone, as opposed to cut, which relates to the angles of the facets in the stone.


Settings are important but the diamond takes precendence
A quality setting — the metal framework in which your stone is mounted — can set the tone for a ring. A classic round gets a fresh and modern makeover in a bezel setting. A trendy oval can look more traditional in a four-prong setting. Getting the right combo of shape and setting is key.
Notice her styleThe trend these days is for couples to ring shop together, but if you’re more of a traditionalist and looking to surprise her with a ring she’ll love, be sure to do some reconnaissance. You can ask her best friend or sibling for help — and swear them to secrecy. But if you’re set on not telling anyone, pay attention to the jewelry she wears. Is she more of a platinum/silver girl than a yellow gold one? Does she gravitate to vintage jewels as opposed to simple classic pieces? Watch her for a couple of weeks and take mental notes to size up her style.

Loose Stones
Buy a loose diamondUnless you’re buying an estate ring, chances are, you’ll be looking at loose stones as opposed to stones in a setting. (The ones you see in the jeweler’s case are often just samples to give you an idea of the finished product.) The stone accounts for the vast majority of a ring’s cost, so wouldn’t you want to get the most gorgeous one imaginable (or at least in your budget)? Be sure to inspect the stone with a loupe (a handheld magnifier that most jewelers have).


What can you afford?

Throw out that old two-months salary myth; you should buy the best ring you can without going into major debt. If she’s a size queen and your budget isn’t supersized, go for a ring with a slightly larger table, or surface, area. You won’t get as much sparkle, but a one-carat ring will look much larger if the stone has a superideal cut. Don’t want to sacrifice the look of your stone? Buying just shy of the next carat (1.8 instead of 2) can equal a savings of nearly 20%. And when it comes to clarity, buying shy gives you the most wiggle room without affecting sparkle (often defects are not visible to the naked eye).


Shop carefully

Always start your jeweler search with recommendations from friends and family. No leads? Check for industry organization affiliation. Stores accredited by the Jewelers of America or members of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) are good starting places.. And always find out what a store’s return policy is. You want to be able to at least exchange the stone if it’s not the one she wants. Whiteflash.com is known for it’s superb customer service and brilliant diamond buying experience due to out life-time upgrade policy, free shipping, free verification, one-year buyback policy, referral gifts and a 10 day money back guarantee.


Give yourself at least a few weeks.
Educating yourself through various web sites can take up to a month.Remember that once ordered, a ring can take up to 3 weeks to arrive, potentially longer if you’re having it custom designed. If you want to engrave the inside of the ring, be sure to request the inscription when you place your order.


Get it in writing

Diamonds one carat or larger should be accompanied by a diamond-grading report issued by an independent gemological association such as the GIA or the American Gem Society. You might also get a “fingerprint” of your ring on the bill of sale, which would include the stone’s 4Cs, shape, dimensions, and any cosmetic enhancements. Also, anything that affects its value — if it was made by a famous designer, is an antique or period piece, or is handmade or custom-designed — should also be noted.

4 C's
The 4 Cs Basic Primer – get the best cut diamond with this simple course on diamond quality


Cut

A stone’s cut refers to the number, placement, shape, and craftsmanship of the facets that create the finished diamond. A diamond’s cut has the most impact on its brilliance.


Color

Diamonds range widely in hue, from the blue of the Hope Diamond to startling shades of red, pink, amber, orange, and canary yellow. Color grades for yellow diamonds developed by the GIA range from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow).


Clarity

The clarity of a diamond depends on how clear or “clean” it is; in other words, how free it is of imperfections on the outside and inside when viewed with the naked eye and with a loupe (a 10x magnifying glass).


Carat

A carat is a unit of weight (not to be confused with karat, which indicates the purity of gold). The carat is standardized at 200 milligrams. Diamond weights are also referred to in points: One carat equals 100 points.

Anniversary 101

Finding the Perfect Anniversary Gift

With regard to anniversary gifts, one of the most popular options, especially for husbands, is purchasing diamond jewelry. This is because, as the saying goes, “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” Therefore, buying your wife diamond jewelry for your wedding anniversary is one of the safest and most reliable bets for an anniversary gift.

However, buying your wife diamond jewelry does not only involve going to a jewelry store or shopping online. This is because there are a number of things you should consider when buying wedding anniversary gifts, such as diamonds, to ensure that you are getting good quality. In addition, the high cost of diamonds requires that you take the necessary steps to make sure that you are getting good value for your money. There is much more meaning to that diamond, gold or gemstone piece than its cost or how much it sparkles.

When going to your jeweler or shopping online, keep in mind your wife’s preferences. Does she like white gold, yellow gold, platinum, or silver? If she’s small, it’s important to purchase something that will complement her beauty, not overwhelm it. Unless you know her jewelry style very well, play it safe. Go for elegant over flashy. Many jewelers will create custom anniversary gifts and pieces that are as unique as this special occasion.

Things to Look For When Shopping
Make sure and check the four C’s: cut, color, clarity, and carat; when purchasing your anniversary bands. These are a great addition to already existing wedding bands. They are actually called value factors. Perhaps a little known fact that these four basic characteristics apply to diamonds and colored gemstones. And it’s no wonder the bridal business remains crucial, given the correlation between marital status and the most expensive jewelry owned. While nearly 38 percent of single consumers said their most expensive item costs under $250, more than half of married respondents owned jewelry worth $1,000 or more.

What You Shop For
Convenience is a big factor in terms of where consumers shop for jewelry.
Cost is another key consideration, especially for jewelry consumers with less discretionary income.

Finding jewelry that works with her wardrobe is also crucial which include designer, trendy and traditional pieces.

Accessorize! Many women like to wear jewelry to accessorize outfits. In terms of what they like, many say that they are usually inspired by jewelry that they see while flipping through women’s magazines such as Bride or Oprah.

Make it Memorable
Even as many women consider jewelry a great fashion accessory, there is still a strong link between the pieces of jewelry they own and the story behind each one. Some feeling about anniversary is sentimental value, emotional value, and the beauty and style of the jewelry. Your celebration should be something out-of-the ordinary that makes a statement about what she means to you and what you mean to each other. Big or small, there are endless romantic ways to recognize the years you have shared, and plan to share, with your wife. Give your love something that beauty can’t even compare to. White Flash’s anniversary ring series will take her breath away.

Whether it’s a diamond anniversary band that reflects your love and respect or a diamond anniversary ring that proclaims none of your feelings have changed, find the perfect anniversary jewelry from WhiteFlash.

Top Jewelry Must Have’s

Top four most-wanted brands:
1. Tiffany and Co.
2. Cartier
3. Chanel
4. WhiteFlash

Most sought after jewelry:
1. Diamond Rings
2. Diamond Pendants
3. Diamond Studs
4. Diamond Bracelets

The Hottest Types of Jewelry:
1. Gold
2. Diamond
3. Silver
4. Colored Gemstones Jewelry
5. Pearl Jewelry