Sunday, 29 November 2009

A Few Things to Consider When Shopping For a Bridal Ring

A Bridal ring is very important for any couple that's ready to get wed because this symbolizes as the band that will keep them close together as husband and wife. This will indicate that a couple finally exchange eternal vows and will remain devoted to one another forever.

There are many rings and some wedding rings have diamonds to make it more attractive, however, whether a ring has a diamond or not or any other stones the important and basic priority is the availability of money that you will be spending for the bridal rings. Well, to make it more simple and easy here are some ways to choose a wonderful ring to buy.

1) As partners, both of you must have similar choices of a wonderful ring. Designs must be well coordinated to both.

2) There are many designs, choose that will look the best on both of you.

3) You can seek advice from your friends and other loved ones of a wonderful bridal ring. They might have something in mind to recommend.

4) The ring's size is important because it must fit the both you.

5) To ensure the durability and quality of the bridal ring, check carefully the materials, carat, weight and stone used on the ring.

6) The information that will be engraved in the ring is important, and may include other significant information to give more meaning to the ring.

7) Budget your money for the ring.

8) Negotiation is important, you might be given a chance for a lower price that will fit your budget

Bridal rings have carats and this is an indicator of the quality, try to check before final purchase. Because you will be buying a bridal ring that must be worth it, this is something that you both should keep forever as it symbolizes your love for each other.

Saturday, 28 November 2009

Is the Market For Diamonds Going Up Or Down?

Things like mines closing down, government relief being extended to Indian diamond cutters, diamond scrips moving downwards, and the like will hog the news; and the feeling is that the diamonds market is on its way down.

With the recession fully upon us - not just in the America, but almost in every country across the globe, things might seem pretty bleak on paper.

However, there is also a surprising under current happening in these times. Page two of Google search results will take you to the best and most reputed diamond retailing portals, and the happenings there are pretty amazing. There are press releases from leading online diamond portals mentioning sales of over a million dollars - and we are not talking about monthly sales, those are way beyond - there are single purchases of tens of thousands of dollars on those sites! So, it gets us to wonder - where has the recession gone then?

That is the wonderful thing about shopping online. It is not that people do not have money to spend on luxuries. It is that the spending has become much more controlled and more thoughtful. Gone are the days (temporarily of course!) of splurging without thought. Luxuries such as diamonds and gold jewelry are pushed to the end of the lists, but they are as important as any other item on it.

Think about it - birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions happen even during the recession, don't they? But when the purse strings are drawn tight, money does not flow as easily, and hence customers look for places where shopping can be done at a lower price - without compromising on the quality; and that place is online.

Statistics show that there has been a sudden increase in the amount of money being spent online, and that is partly thanks to the global recession. With malls and stores closing down, and with tons of layoffs happening in the retail field, the onus to deliver is on the online sales industry. eBay shows a lot of traffic every single day, and the number of conversions also are very healthy!

Coming to our title, is the market for diamonds going up or down?

Actually, the market for diamonds is on its way up. Though there are diamond guilds showing a slowdown in global sales, there is a whole new market being created thanks to the online diamond retailers. People who thought that diamonds were out of reach all these days are suddenly realizing that they too can get into the diamond ownership exclusive club. For instance, there are gift items on Diamonds On Web, which start from about $ 120! If you can get a piece of jewelry studded with certified brilliant cut diamonds at around the price, people naturally will gravitate towards them, won't they? And that is exactly what is happening. Though there is the recession and all this depressing talk going around with layoffs by the thousands and salary cuts by the millions, engagements and weddings are still happening, aren't they? And when there is an engagement or a wedding (which are occasions that demand a very special ring), how can there not be a diamond present for the occasion? Since jewelry stores might be out of reach for a lot of people, online jewelers are becoming the perfect replacement.

And buying jewelry online is a win-win situation, as the prices are way lower than those at your local specialty jewelry stores, and the range available online is absolutely unmatchable by the jewelers outside. With all the warranties and guarantees in place, getting an engagement ring (or any other kind of jewelry) online is a decision that is easily taken. The next time you have a special occasion coming up (which should be pretty soon), log on to one of the internet's leading diamond retailers, and you will see why the popularity is on the rise. Now you tell us, is the market for diamonds going up or down?

Friday, 27 November 2009

Bridal Jewellery - Buy Wisely

When buying bridal jewellery one is mostly confused about what to pick. The jewellery designers of today have flooded their stores with amazingly finely crafted jewellery prices. Right from gold, silver to even platinum, all most all types of metal are being used to design jewellery for the bride as well as to make bridesmaid jewellery. It comes as no surprise then that many brides prefer to break away from the traditional diamond jewellery and are willing to experiment with stones like emeralds, rubies, corals and much more.

However irrespective of whether you wish to buy several ornaments or stick with just one set, it will help to work with a few guidelines when setting out to buy jewellery.

Budget - It will help tremendously to work within a budget when you do set out to buy jewellery for your wedding. Most jewellery stores have very expensive stuff along with lower priced ornaments too. Indeed looking for the pieces that fall within your range will help make a better choice. Looking at the high end ornaments will leave you disappointed in the ones that you can actually afford to buy. So always set out a budget and look for jewellery in that range.

Match - Indeed it is very important to match the jewellery with the outfit that you intend to wear it with. So in case, it is a white gown from the Victorian era that you have selected, it will help to pick out a design that compliments this dress. If your neckline is low, go with bigger neck pieces, however, if you have chosen a dress which has a boat neck then it will work better to have larger ear rings instead.

Far sighted - Wedding jewellery is mostly an expensive buy and unless you wish to be stuck with an ornament that you are never able to wear again, it is better to buy bridal jewellery that can be worn with other outfits too. When buying for your trousseau it will help to buy different types of designs, so as to have a larger variety in your collection rather than sticking to one particular style.

Investment - In most cases wedding jewellery stays in the family for generations and that is the reason why one must always work with a receipt when making the purchase from jewellery stores. Maintain a file where you keep these receipts safely. It is also a good idea to have another jeweller check the authenticity of the ornaments that you have bought, so as to be sure that you have not been cheated.

As is clear now, one needs to strike a balance between several aspects when looking to buy wedding jewellery. Working with the above listed tips will help tremendously in this task. Jewellery designers have done their bit for us by experimenting with various designs and brides are now free to choose their bridal jewellery depending upon personal preferences.

Wednesday, 25 November 2009

Would You Consider Buying a Black Diamond Engagement Ring?

Black diamonds are called hematite, as anyone worth their salt in the jewelry industry could tell you, and if you look it up, it has a metallic silver/gray look and is not faceted like a regular gemstone because it is opaque, which defeats the purpose. Just a few years ago, if you tried to buy something like that, it wouldn't be worth anything. Really, because a dark faceted stone like that, there's no point in faceting it for there's no way for light to shine through it, so most people don't go for those, thus the low value.

Unlike the traditional colors of diamond engagement rings we know, a black diamond engagement ring is not the preference of many women. It would be surprising if not scary to be given a ring especially a black diamond engagement ring. As what many of us believes that it is poor etiquette to wear black to a wedding or other romantic event for it bad luck, undesirable forebodings and even death. However, beyond those superstitions, black diamond engagement ring will always be stunning and unique, if not an eccentric kind of ring to choose for a loved one.

These kind of engagement rings have grown its popularity after Rob Patterson gave black diamond solitaire engagement ring to Carmen Electra. Compared to other rings, one reason why other people are attracted to it because it is much edgier and unique. For others, it is a reflection of their own personality that is not particularly traditional.

For couples who are seeking for unique stones may consider the black diamond for an engagement ring, but they should go to an accredited jeweler for some people trick sellers by adding color to fancy stones and make it appear a true black diamond. If the jewelers proven that you are getting the real deal, these rare and luxurious diamond will make a dramatic and powerful impression for a truly one of a kind engagement ring.

Tuesday, 24 November 2009

Wedding Ring Sets - A Popular Trend

Wedding ring sets usually consist of two or three rings. Most often an engagement ring plus 1 or 2 matched wedding bands. The bands are worn on either side or next to the engagement ring. Sets will sometimes also have a wedding ring which the groom can wear.

The sets are very popular and there are a large and increasing number to choose from on display in most jewellery stores. Prices of the sets will often vary depending on the maker and also depending on the quality of any stones set into the rings. The prices will also have a large range depending on the metal which the ring is made from, and if stones are included, on the stone's colour, clarity, size and type of cut.

The sets are frequently made from yellow gold which has been combined with a different metal, for example copper, tin or bismuth. Over the years, precious stones set into rings have had some sort of hidden meaning. Sometimes the first letter of each type of stone will form a word, e.g. a diamond, an emerald, an amethyst, a ruby, another emerald, a sapphire and a topaz will make the word 'dearest'. There are quite a few combinations of stones which can form other words.

A wedding ring set is likely to be the most important and significant jewellery that a couple will ever own. Many couples like to buy matching sets made from the same metals and having the same stones set into the rings. There are many different sets available choose from, meaning that there should be something to suit every couple. Designer bands sometimes have a more intricate design than traditional wedding bands. Bands made from the metal titanium are a popular modern choice as titanium is extremely hardwearing and is also light, plus it is less expensive than platinum or gold. The two-toned wedding ring set is also popular. These have a combination of both white and gold metals.

A wedding ring set can be a great way to make sure that your wedding rings are properly matched, and each set can be exactly to your own personal taste. The groom's ring, as well as the bride's ring, can also be part of a ring set. For many people, wedding ring sets are a fantastic idea which can save both time spent searching for suitable rings and also save money compared to buying the rings individually.

Sunday, 22 November 2009

Buying a Diamond Ring? Read These Tips Before Choosing One!

Yes, diamonds are forever. And many times buying one is a luxury although your perspective should be that it is an investment. Some shapes of diamond wedding rings or a diamond wedding band are more expensive than others. Of course, because a wedding ring is a symbol of commitment and devotion, you should always make sure that you love what you buy because you will probably have it whether it's in platinum or gold, for the rest of your life.

Your wedding day is going to be one of the most important days of your life. The wedding bands that you purchase serve as the symbol of the importance of your day. And every woman has in her mind the diamond ring and diamond wedding band she will wear on that very special day. Whatever metal you're looking at it means a lot to have some tips before you actually make this all important purchase.

Obviously, if you are about to buy a ring and wedding band be sure that you have glanced through magazines so you know exactly the shape that you love. As previously mentioned, some shapes cost more money. And of course most people realize that platinum is a more expensive metal than gold and the larger the diamond, the more money it's going to cost. As long as wedding bands have been in existence, there have been diamonds that are judged according to four important factors: cut, color, clarity and carat or size. This stone has distinctive shapes: round, pear, oval, marquise, emerald and heart shaped. And although all of those shapes exist for a diamond ring, nearly three quarters of all wedding and engagement rings sold are in the round shape.

The color of the diamond ring is also a vital factor in affecting the price. The stones in diamond wedding rings and diamond wedding bands come in pink, yellow, green and blue but these colors most times are much more costly. So if you decide you want a rare color in your diamond understand that there will be a very large price tag attached.

Within the diamond stone itself there are usually imperfections called inclusions as well as possible cracks and cleavages. Whether the ring is set in yellow gold, white gold, 14k or 18k, or platinum, a dull, lifeless stone will cost less but most times are just not as brilliant and it is not pleasant to look at. Of course you will pay less for the ring, but you have to be happy with it because you will be looking at it for a long time.

Saturday, 21 November 2009

Cushion Cut Engagement Rings - As Soft As a Pillow to Land On

The cushion cut engagement rings are the perfect way to let that special lady know that the relationship will be as pleasant as a soft pillow to lay her head on. That is the great thing about an engagement ring; it sets the tone for your relationship. Picking the right one does make all the difference.

This is the cut most diamonds were years ago. If you have an antique diamond ring, look at it. If not ask one of the elders in your family if you may gaze upon their ring, more than likely it will be of the cushion cut. The larger facets allow more light to enter the stone and be reflected. This also means there are fewer facets that had to be cut which were easier centuries ago. But what is really nice, it only takes a little light to bring out the fire of the stone. The engagement ring will be beautiful at a candle light dinner. Just like centuries ago, her heart will swoon and the romance will begin.

The shape is where the cushion cut engagement ring gets its name. Square to slightly rectangular with softly rounded edges, this resembles a feather down pillow.

Since the diamond cutting technology has improved, this cut has been modified from previous years. Special cuts have been added to increase the depth perception of the ring. When done correctly it adds a simple brilliance to the stone. The large facets on top are still sizable so when selecting a stone, make sure it is of high quality. The inclusions will be more visible so spend a little more so that the full effect of the stone will be appreciated.

A candle light dinner is the perfect setting to ask that question with a cushion cut engagement ring.

Thursday, 19 November 2009

Latest Jewelries - Best Gifts to Make Women Happy

Want to make someone special happy? Gift her beautiful piece of jewelry and you are almost done! Jewelry has been best friend of every woman since a long time. Initially, jewelry was adorned by womenfolk only, but with changing times men are also seen to deck themselves up with various types of Jewelry.

Jewelry can be of various metals, precious as well as semi-precious. Once jewelry meant only gold jewelry but with changing times various other metals came into vogue. Recently platinum and diamond jewelry has become a favorite with customers all across the globe. Some of the other precious and semi-precious gems and stones that are used in the manufacturing of various types of jewels include ruby, sapphire, amethyst, jade, emerald etc.

Jewelry is an item of personal possession, which can range from earrings to necklaces, from rings to pendants, from bracelets to brooches so on and so forth. Myriad jewelries are designed for various functions and occasions. Wedding jewelries are heavily made and embellished when compared to jewelries that are designed for daily wear. The wedding ring is one of the most sought after jewelries in the world.

Jewelries are not only pieces of adornment, but they also symbolize status and dignity in society. Jewelries are also a favorite in the fashion world. There are exclusive fashion shows that deal only with precious and semi-precious jewelry as well as diamond jewelry.

Jewelry market is most dominant in the Western countries, followed by the Asian countries like India, China and Japan.

The countries of the Middle East also have a fair share in the jewelry market of the world. Therefore the craze for jewelries is unending and will only increase with time. The only difference will be in the style and design.

Wednesday, 18 November 2009

Polished Tungsten Wedding Bands For Bands That Will Last Forever

Polished tungsten bands for wedding are most likely to maintain its beautiful, everlasting, and shiny finish. The couple's promise is embedded in a polished tungsten wedding band to be one for richer or poorer, in sickness or in health, till death do them part! Truly, these wedding bands are symbols of loyalty and everlasting love that could last and stand the warmth and coldness of time. Its enduring finish and heavy weight makes it a perfect symbol of security and commitment.

Polished tungsten bands for wedding are most preferred for its durability and elegance. With the extreme hardness, these rings do not deform easily; thereby maintaining the shape even for a very long period of time. One great characteristic of a tungsten wedding band that has already been polished is that it doesn't require regular polishing especially if the ring has brushed finish and intricate designs. Like other great wedding rings, rings made of tungsten are hypoallergenic, making them very comfortable to wear.

Polished tungsten wedding bands perfectly symbolize a permanent finish and polish that will endure the test of time. The vows made by the couple are actually reflected by the durability and quality the tungsten metal possesses. In fact, tungsten is 4 times harder that steel so you can just imagine how hard it is to deform this metal. Its shape is also maintained even for a very long period of time making the couple's ability to endure the warmth and coldness of times very evident. Truly, tungsten is the rarest and most exotic metal that can maintain a permanent finish and polish.

Aside from those mentioned above, tungsten comes with amazing features that make it stand out from other metals used in jewelry making. Because of these great qualities, jewelry made of tungsten is the hottest and fastest craze in men's jewelry these days especially that the metal tungsten is now considered as the modern and new metal. Want more reasons why you should choose polished tungsten bands for wedding? Here they are:

1. These bands for wedding are carefully and meticulously crafted. 2. The ring blank is cut and shaped using diamond tools only. 3. Polished tungsten wedding rings remain sparkling and polished forever. 4. It is virtually impossible to scratch these wedding rings. 5. These rings are made from a very heavy metal.

With all the facts, given above, there is no doubt you should go for a polished tungsten wedding ring!

Monday, 16 November 2009

Diamonds Are the Perfect Gift For All Occassions

Diamonds are forever - made for each other - Diamonds are timeless stones that are never out of style whatever the hottest trend is. Every woman wants to own a diamond in some form, be it a necklace or a bracelet or a ring. Before, every woman has to wait for a suitable man to come and present her this sparkling gem as the engagement ring. But now the time has changed. Diamonds are now considered the best gifts any one can offer. Starting from daughter's marriage to the grandson's first birthday, diamonds have become a part of family. Families own a diamond and pass on to their generations. Besides platinum jewels available, diamonds are still favored by a huge community of people.

Diamond engagement rings come with variety of shades, color and sizes. This is where most men go confused in choosing the best for their better half. Whatever the diamond we choose, no two diamonds are unique. So, it is always the best you can give to your beloved. In the western civilization, diamonds are considered to have the ultimate romantic gestures and considered to bring love and affection for the couple.

That is why marriages occur with these diamond rings. Time has evolved and so are the diamonds as the new form of gifts. Presenting them on a momentous occasion like parents wedding anniversary is the happiest gift anyone can present to the parents. Even a graduation day can end up shining with a diamond bracelet.

The diamonds we see are even the ancestors of our great dinosaurs. They are the ancient gems still in use. Even diamonds are found in various colors. Each color has its own significance. Each can be used to present at suited occasions. The rarest of them however is the red diamond. So, if it is going to be the most unique person, then definitely it is the red diamond the gift. Nonetheless it comes in a highly expensive price. Diamonds are priced based on the four factors namely clarity, color, caret and cut.

Diamonds are mostly cut into less than 1 carat, which are sold at affordable cost compared to more than 1 carat diamonds. The color of diamond is yet again an important factor to consider. So, it is better to choose a diamond that most suits you just by matching your taste with any of these.

Most men believe that the diamonds bring true love among their girls. They somehow think that their soul mate will have faith in them only with a diamond engagement ring and trust in their next level of relationship. Even presenting a pendant or a diamond earring still is a great way of expressing the true love and it is not going to bring a false expression among the women.

Rather than a lot of other gifts, that are simply wasted by time or make, diamonds stand out as their best part as a gift. Diamonds are not only for a present generation, they are passed on to the next generations and considered as their family treasure. Diamonds never go unfashionable or even worn out. Instead of presenting a gift that bores, diamonds are great gifts that are adored. Diamonds are forever and truly a girl's friend.

Sunday, 15 November 2009

Famous Diamond Mines

If you live in the United States, where the most diamond jewelry is bought every year, that diamond engagement or wedding ring that you wear probably features a diamond that did NOT come from the U.S. At the time of this writing there are no commercial diamond mines operating in the U.S. The last one that there was so far, the Kelsey Lake Mine situated close to the Colorado-Wyoming border, shut down operations in April of 2002. The most valuable diamond that site ever yielded was worth $300,000. Today, there is one non-commercial (that is, unowned by any private company) diamond mining site in operation in the U.S.: Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas. This operates on a fee-to-mine basis. There have been many famous diamond discoveries at this location throughout the decades, including the 40.23 carat Uncle Same diamond discovered at the Park in 1924. In 1990, Shirley Strawn uncovered a 3.09 carat diamond that got cut to 1.09 carats in 1997 and received a "perfect" grade of 0/0/0 by the American Gem Society in 1998, making it the first diamond ever given this mind-blowing AGS grading. Now this diamond is on display in the state park.

However, some diamond mining companies are interested in Alaska, Wyoming, and Minnesota as potential diamond repositories.

The following are the world's currently active commercial diamond mine locations:

Angola (three mines) Botswana (four) South Africa (eight) Congo (one) Zimbabwe (one) Tanzania (one) Lesotho (one) Russia (five) India (four) Canada (six) Australia (three)

Diamonds are mined in different ways, taking into consideration how the minerals are deposited, how stable the surrounding terrain is, and what environmentally disruptive impact mining would have.

Artisinal mining is also called small-scale mining. This is what is typically used in poor areas and the people who do the mining are called "diamond diggers" who use their hands and very basic tools like shovels and sieves to find diamonds. These diamond diggers are considered "subsistence-level" workers and are most often, but not exclusively, found in Africa.

Hard rock mining involves creating underground diamond mines featuring "stopes", or underground rooms that are supported by natural underground pillars. This type of diamond minding involves the creation of "declines" (shafts) and is achieved through a combination of manpower and advanced machinery.

Marine mining is a relatively new form of diamond mining which hasn't even been around for 20 years yet. Offshore placer deposits are mined for diamonds; huge drills up to seven meters in diameter are used to drill down into the seabed and suck up the underwater material that contains the diamonds. Remote-controlled Seabed Crawlers are also used to move horizontally along the sea floor; they pump prospective gravel up to a ship.

Open pit mining is used when the surface material, or "overburden", that covers the diamond deposits is thin and prospectors find diamonds or what are called kimberlite pipes near or on the surface of an area. A pit is dug and diamonds are extracted from it.

If diamonds are found within alluvial, colluvial, or eluvial secondary deposits, Placer Mining is used for extracting them. Hydraulic, mechanized, or artisinal mining techniques may be used for extraction.

Isn't it fascinating to know more about where that diamond you love might have come from and how it got to you? Knowledge makes your gem even more valuable to you.

Saturday, 14 November 2009

Lovely Jewelry For Weddings

When it is your time to say, "I do" you'll want to look your very best. From your wedding dress to all of your accessories - everything has been selected for your special day. So you'll want wedding jewelry that will be simply perfect.

For a truly "bling" look, select jewelry that glitters and shines as much as you do on your wedding day. This is a very popular look as many brides also wear tiaras with their veils. One of the most popular choices is CZ or cubic zirconium that is set to look like diamonds. Try the Sterling Silver Round 3-Stone Engagement Wedding Band CZ Ring Set, perfect for that couple ready to get married. Or look to the Sterling Silver CZ "Diamonds All Around" Heart Bracelet to complete your wedding ensemble.

Every bride knows she is to wear "something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue." You can easily wear something both new and blue by looking at Blue Topaz jewelry. The Blue Topaz stone is an excellent choice for any sentimental bride looking to compliment her wardrobe. Blue Topaz is a stunning stone that compliments many brides. Try the Sterling Silver 2-Tone Topaz Blue Clear CZ Micro Pave Uneven Square Stud Earrings. Or add the Sterling Citrine Topaz CZ Diamond Shape Earrings.

A sweet and classic look for brides is to wear pearls. Pearls are a very classic choice - why if you ask your grandmother, she probably wore her very best pearls for her wedding day! Pearls have long been valued by brides as romantic jewelry. Brides for centuries in many countries have worn pearls on their wedding days. The pearl is a very romantic gemstone. Try adding the Triple Strand Sterling Silver Freshwater Pearl Stretch Bracelet for a classic look for your wedding day. Or add the Elegant Dragonfly Pearl Sterling Silver Necklace for a very vintage but still modern look.

Friday, 13 November 2009

Beautiful Claddagh Rings

We often search for a ring that would best describe our personality, that would symbolize our emotions and message that we want to send to someone we love. There are different types of rings to consider like gemstones also called as birthstones,metal bands to hold the stone or stones, ring settings and styles. Have you ever considered claddagh rings to represent your love to your woman?

Did you know that claddagh rings has the most culturally jewelry pieces ever recorded in history? The word claddagh was derived from a small fishing village in Ireland where it was first created. This type of ring has deeper meaning and considered as legendary rings. It is describe as two hands clasping a heart in the center and a crown above the heart. That's how it looks like. The meaning depends on the way it is worn as a ring in the hand.

If claddagh rings are word at the left hand with the crown pointing away from the wearer's heart it means that the wearer is engaged. If the rings is worn on the left hand finger and facing inward the body it means that the wearer is already married because his or her heart has been captured. If it is worn on the right hand with the crown pointing away from the heart it means that the person or the wearer is willing to consider love. If it is is worn on the right hand with the crown pointing towards the heart, the person or wearer is not interested in starting a friendship or love relationship.

This type of rings are popular for engagement or wedding rings for both men and women. It comes in various selections and styles. Any gemstones is desirable to be the center heart stone for a claddagh rings such as turquoise, agate, ruby, emerald, topaz, diamonds. Onyx gemstones, celtic, yellow and white gold, silver, platinum and titanium for men. For mens claddagh rings, it should be more heavier than the claddagh ring made for women. The stones should be more larger for men are known for working hard labors and not as careful as women. It should be durable and sturdy. A titanium and platinum are great choices as metal bands for mens claddagh rings . A birthstone rings is desirable for claddagh for it best represents the wearer's identity and personality.

Claddagh rings can be personalized like carving or engraving designs like the knot which is called as Celtic rings, names, phrase, any message, a memorable date, objects, animals like butterfly and flowers. Claddagh rings are popular as gifts for both men and women who is still searching for someone to love, for friendship, as engagement rings or wedding rings and for those who want to stay single for life. This can be one ring with different meaning and can be worn in any positions of ring designs.

Claddagh rings are indeed perfect choice for jewelry lovers who seeks for rings with deeper meanings and significance.

Thursday, 12 November 2009

Objective Qualities of Diamond Wedding Ring

When you are finally there to buy a wedding ring as per your wish to have a unique one then you better to have some objective knowledge in your mind about some details of a wedding ring. Judging or choosing a wedding ring is largely a subjective affair but before buying one you need to be aware of those objective criteria such as cost factor, durability, color of the stone, cutting etc. you want your personalized jewelry to be a good one and surely do not want to compromise on that factors. So, you prefer to know about all those factors well before buying the wedding ring.

Weight: At first we will be discussing about the weight of a wedding ring. For a diamond weight is measured in carats and for gold, it is measured in karats. It's a measure not of size or weight, but of purity. A 14kt gold ring contains 14/24 pure gold, or about 58%. This fact is commonly misunderstood as people gets confused by this thing. For platinum the same thing is weighed on a scale of 1000. Out of 1000 if it is said that a platinum wedding is 950PT weighed then it should be understood that that particular platinum ring is 95% pure.

A diamond is measured by the unit carats (ct) which can be ranging from near zero to up scale.1 carat is =200mg. now anything less than 1/8th or by some experts less than 1/4th of a carat is termed as chip. A reason behind this is polishing and faceting a small diamond is very much difficult and to bring out the diamonds effects it has to be done. A diamond stone that is not fully faceted and properly shaped is also called chip. This is a result of accident or the crystal structure may be like this that makes the cutting and polishing impossible. That is why these small stones are called chip. The biggest diamond Cullnan is weighed around 3106 carats and that is why it is called the biggest individual gem-quality diamond ever discovered. It was cut down into the egg-shaped stone that sits in the scepter of England, itself about 525 carats.

Clarity: Another factor, which is equally important for determining the diamonds price, is its clarity. Professionals get an idea of the stones price from its clarity. FL and IF are those kinds of diamonds, which are rare, stones and considered as flawless. These stones are very much expensive. These are the highest grade of diamond quality in this era. Then come VVS1 and VVS2. These types of rings are slightly included. Included is used to denote that these types of diamonds are slightly occluded or cloudy. The reason might be adding of non-diamond materials. But they are indeed of high quality as the flaws can be seen under 10 x magnifications not by bare eyes. VS1 and VS2 are those types of diamond stones where inclusion of non-diamond materials can be seen in the open eyes. SI1 and SI2, I1 and I2, I3 are some other diamond varieties where flaw is visible.

Tuesday, 10 November 2009

How to Choose the Diamond Wedding Ring

With the choices available today, choosing a wedding ring can be exhausting. It is even more so when you are trying to buy a diamond wedding ring. Who do you buy it from? Where do you start? What should the base metal be? Where can I find the best selection of styles? These are probably just a few of the questions that will be swarming around in your head. This article will try and make your life a little simpler.

The cost vs. your budget

Yes, everyone agrees on the fact that a wedding ring is much more than just a band around your finger. It symbolism commitment and love for a lifetime between two people. Therefore choosing a wedding band had to be carefully done. It should be perfect. However, this definitely does not mean that you spend the rest of your life trying to pay off the ring. Set aside a sensible budget for your diamond wedding ring and stick to it. It is really not a wise idea to buy one that you cannot afford.

The base metal

Once you have decided on the amount you would like to spend on your ring, decide on the base metal. Would you like to have it in gold, white gold or platinum? While gold and white gold are close in their pricing, platinum will cost a lot more. At this point you will need to decide on whether you want to spend on the diamond or on the base metal of your ring.

The other elements When choosing your diamond wedding ring you will also need to pay attention to the cut, colour and clarity of the stone / stones. The kind of setting of the stones is also something that you would need to consider carefully. Most importantly you need to remember that the ring that you are about to pick out is your wedding band and it will be on your finger most of the time if not all of it and therefore it needs to be hardy and durable.

Monday, 9 November 2009

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying Faux-Synthetic Diamonds

Are you looking for less costly diamond jewelries? If you're looking for real diamonds that are cheap, you can't find one since real diamonds can cost a fortune even the smallest piece. Don't you think it's time that you settle with faux diamonds or synthetic diamonds?

These diamonds are often associated with fake diamonds but you know what, there is a great difference between fakes and the faux/synthetic. Fakes are those diamonds which are sold with the intention of deceiving the customer while the faux or synthetic are sold by informing the customer of its true nature.

Just put it like this - when you buy faux diamonds and synthetic diamonds, you are aware that you're about to purchase a diamond alternative. In the case of fake diamonds, you're not aware that it is a fake since you were made to think that it is a real diamond.

Alternative diamonds are viable options for occasions like engagements and weddings. When you buy faux jewelry, you don't need to shout to the whole world that it is not the real thing. Besides, only experts can tell the difference. It's quite easy to find faux or synthetic diamond rings and other jewelries. High street jewelry stores sell designer jewelries which are inexpensive and high quality.

You can find jewelries for children, men, and women in different designs. Since you can find a wide range of alternative diamonds, you can examine them closely and consider some factors before purchasing. It is also a good idea to stick to reputable jewelry shops to ensure that you're getting fine quality diamonds.

By purchasing faux diamonds and synthetic diamonds, you can save lots of money that you can use for more important things. When buying jewelries, you don't need to spend a huge sum. Besides, people are more practical nowadays and if they can get diamonds at half the price, they are going to grab it.

However, you need to ensure that you're not purchasing one that is of low quality because it can't last long. You may even suffer from allergic reactions so try to stick with reputable sellers and distributors.

Synthetic diamonds are created through CDV or HPHT methods. The production process is not costly making it a viable alternative for diamond production. It's natural for alternative diamonds to sparkle more unlike real diamonds because they were created to be flawless. The synthetic versions are also denser so if you try to weigh the jewelry in your hands, it is heavier. A very good example is the new hybrid diamonds, a new diamond alternative.

The alternative diamond versions are an excellent choice for ordinary individuals who also want to own diamonds but can't afford to pay for the real ones. Be patient when shopping for the diamond jewelries. With a bit of patience, you may be able to find the prefect piece that will suit your budget and taste. Surf the internet for more beautiful designs and compare the ones you like. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing faux jewelries. Get yours now, show it to your friends and see their reactions.

Saturday, 7 November 2009

Cultured Vs Natural Diamonds

"Cultured" diamonds are one type of artificial diamond. They have been small and limited to industrial uses, while synthetic diamonds have been produced for decades. Cultured diamonds, then again, can be up to 2 carats and come in a selection of colors such as pink, orange, yellow, and the most common transparent diamonds, making them appropriate for jewelry accessories. Cultured diamonds are shaped using a recently invented production system that grows the crystals from a seed under high temperature and pressure.

Natural loose diamonds always have structural indiscretion or chemical impurities. Because of this, imperfections must be added to simulate the look of natural diamonds. While colored diamonds (for instance, Jennifer Lopez's pink diamond engagement ring) are enormously uncommon in nature, they are cheaper to produce because they take only a few days to cultivate as compared to several weeks for transparent diamonds. The period for producing cultured diamonds may be shortened as the manufacturing methods are perfected.

Unlike cultured diamonds, cubic zirconia (shortened CZ) is made up of a different substance than natural diamonds. CZ consists mostly of zirconium dioxide. Consequently, its chemical properties are close to, but are unlike those of diamonds. While CZ is heavier, it does not have the 'fire' or light dispersion that diamonds have. In normal conditions, cultured diamonds and diamonds are considered 500 times harder than cubic zirconia.

There are a number of claims which states that cubic zirconia cannot be easily differentiated from a natural diamond when seen by the unaided eye. This may be true for people who are not in the jewelry business. However, simple lab tests can easily differentiate them because they are made of different materials. On the other hand, there is no way to differentiate between a cultured diamond and a natural diamond. This information causes huge dismay to the diamond commerce, which is racing to expand differentiating processes.

In order to prevent confusion, the companies that are manufacturing these cultured diamonds are taking procedures to mark their diamonds. For instance, they may laser engrave them or put in trace impurities. If this is not done, diamond buyers would not be able to know if the diamond they are buying came from a machine or from a natural mine. A natural diamond might command a high value due to the expense of mining and its apparent rarity. An unprincipled seller might pass off a far less luxurious cultured diamond as a real diamond.

Friday, 6 November 2009

Diamond Anniversary Rings - An Overwhelming Expression of Love

You probably are on the brink of completing a year of happy marriage. Do you know what could be an exotic way of winning the heart of your beloved wife? Diamond anniversary rings to gift yourselves could be an exotic and sentimental way of reminding yourself of the vows of togetherness that you at no point of time would want to stray away from. This is indeed an ultimate expression of love where the diamond anniversary rings would speak more than words. This is a way of re-emphasizing how much your spouse is loved in spite of the ups and downs that life would probably take you through. In fact diamonds autograph a new beginning in one's life where you could look forward to some of life's choicest experiences where love, happiness and goodness would be remarkably bounteous!

By choosing to exchange diamond anniversary rings you could also be marking the celebration of your silver or for that matter even you golden jubilee. Isn't it worth the pomp and show? Well, long years of togetherness certainly need something special to make its mark! Diamonds studded in different metals only enhances its beauty better. Anything with the diamond is highly appreciated around the world. Ever since Internet has become a great market for buying and selling products right from a hairpin to a car and even diamonds, there are some exclusive online diamond jewellery shops that make no compromise in serving their customers with some of the best designs and spectacularly crafted jewellery. While, on your hunt for genuine diamond jewelers, you're sure to come across sites where you have the facility of customizing your own diamond rings with just the click of the mouse. http://www.diamondsonweb.com/ is one such store that gives you a variety of shapes, colors of diamonds, setting style and ring design to combine. With this enhancement on the site, one gets to visualize and give life to their fantasy before actually purchasing it online. The glitter in the diamonds personifies the radiance of freshness, happiness and true long lasting love. This is why the diamond is considered incomparable to any other stone in the world.

Across cultures, this precious stone-the diamond has its unanimous popularity owing to the effects it gives the wearer. Did you know that diamonds combat certain astrological imbalances to give you a perfect and smooth going life? Wouldn't you be giving you marriage a new positive touch of romance and love by purchasing the diamond anniversary rings which is of course an this extravagant buy but definitely a valuable one. This indulgence is worth it as nothing beyond this could aptly befit the occasion of reminding yourself of the lovely years you've spent together, growing and learning from each other as you celebrate you wedding anniversary. Three diamonds set in a platinum ring are very significant as they symbolically raise a toast to the past, present and future. Cluster setting, bar setting, bezel setting that makes it look like a watch dial, a claw setting or a channel setting are some of the basic styles in which a diamond is held against the metal. Each style is exclusive to the kind of diamond you would like to set. At times you may want a number of small diamonds clustered together or one big oval or circular shaped diamond held in a claw like pattern where the diamond gives a 3-D effect and makes its outstanding presence on your personality felt. This could reach you to what you have on mind.

Keep the survey on and find out which place can offer you the best diamond anniversary rings. Get your beloved's ring size and also go to a specialist who can tell you what ring style will best suit her. Remember that the ring is not just made for her finger but is made so exclusively beautiful that it envelops her with an aura of glitter-the best expression of your love!

Wednesday, 4 November 2009

Silver Cubic Zirconia Rings - The Hottest CZ Trends

Cubic Zirconia has been nicknamed the imitation diamonds. It is a synthetic gemstone that is very reasonable priced. The 1980s saw a surge of popularity for Cubic Zirconia Rings due to an interest in wedding and engagement rings that were priced lower than diamond rings. 2009 has shown that Cubic Zirconia continues to win new customers and keep existing customers.

Right-Hand Rings

A woman's left hand, if she is married, has a wedding ring or band on the fourth finger. It used to signify that a woman is "taken". Feminism has made women realize that we are not owned by a husband. In that spirit, the concept of the right-hand ring emerged. CZ rings that we buy ourselves represent a woman's independence and power. A woman, whether married or unmarried, can hand a right-hand ring. Right-hand rings are showy rings that mark the achievement of today's successful woman.

Channel-set CZs in sleek waves

Cubic Zirconia rings demonstrate that you are a woman who is not only fashion-conscious, but money-smart. Another top style is the channel-set CZs in sleek waves. Channel-set refers to a setting in which the stones rest in a metal channel. Each stone sits perfectly adjoining to the next stone in line. Typically, channel set gems are round, baguette shaped or princess cut. The wave design is also very popular. It resembles the up and down lines of waves; it is a fresh look for jewelry.

Bezel-set CZs in stacking bands

Another top style of 2009 is the bezel-set CZ rings in stackable bands. This is a beautiful look for an affordable price. Individual rings are pretty when worn alone or a stunning display when two or three are stacked. They fit together perfectly. A Bezel-set used a metal tube that is wrapped around the stone. The metal is pulled down over the stone to hold it. An example of this style incorporates a sterling silver band with white diamond and blue sapphire Cubic Zirconias. How lovely!

CZ rings with princess-cut or marquise-cut stones

2009 also has seen an increase in demand for Cubic Zirconia rings with the princess cut or the marquise cut stones. The cut describes the shape of the stone as well as the proportions and finish. The kind of cut enhances the intense brilliance and variety of gorgeous colors available. The princess cut, second in popularity after the round brilliant, is cut in either a square or rectangular shape. Its shape is very similar to that of an upturned pyramid with four beveled sides. The princess cut is also known as the square modified brilliant. The princess cut was introduced in the 1960s.

CZ rings with marquise-cut stones are also top sellers in 2009. The marquise cut is a variation of the brilliant cut diamond. The overall look is boat-shaped. Both ends are long and pointed. The marquise cut is so attractive with any of the following Cubic Zirconia colors: white, pink, blue (blue sapphire), orange, purple (similar to purple amethyst), green or champagne.

Monday, 2 November 2009

Three Steps to the Designing of Engagement Rings

Though plenty of engagement rings with variety of designs are accessible in jewelers' shops, yet they may not create the impression the bride is specially looking for. Your bride-to-be may ask you for a specific carving of the ring which the shops do not have in their line-up of the jewelry products. However, the jewelers also design the engagement rings as per the customers' specifications.

You must ensure some basic steps before asking the jeweler to design the ring. First of all, go through the engagement rings pictures and see how they look. Compare the design on the top of the ring and the carvings on the metal bands. You must compare lots of rings in order to have a look at the prevailing and traditional trends. Pick up the paper and pencil and try to draw the design you have in mind. Consult your bride as she will give you hints over her liking of the ring. Keep in mind her life style and choice regarding the jewelry while deciding over the specifications of the diamond engagement ring.

When it comes to choosing a diamond, its cut, clarity, color and carat size matters the most. Cost can also be a guiding factor in picking up a diamond for the engagement ring. for instance, if a budget ring is in your mind, then a diamond with lower carat size and some inclusions in it will be suitable. Still, such a diamond gives the same impression of glitter to the onlookers. Simple cuts will also lower the prices to larger extent. For a less costly ring, you can opt for other stones such as opals, sapphires and rubies.

Settings for the engagement ring are vital to designing of engagement rings. A channel setting allows for free flow of the stones within a channel, especially to the round stones. This gives extra security to the stones, apart from a unique line of stones for special impression. Prong setting provides for a tight grip over the diamond, and becomes dominant on the ring. Bezel settings protect the stones even more as a tight collar is placed around them. These setting are capable of giving the engagement ring a special look.

Once the specifications of the engagement ring of your choice are in place, you should be shopping for the material. The metal band holds important place in whole of the design. A simple white metal band provides for a less dominant backdrop to highlight the stone on the top of the ring. A gold metal band or excessive carvings on it may somewhat diminish the stone impression and it should be kept in mind while designing the ring.

In these days of internet, designing of engagement rings has become even easier with the help of online tools. Browse a jeweler's website and you will be guided to the easy steps for online designing of the ring. A major benefit of online shopping and designing over personally visiting of a shop is lower overall costs of the engagement ring as you can compare the diamonds and prices of varieties of designs.

Sunday, 1 November 2009

Is a Diamond Engagement Ring Forever? Who Gets the Ring When the Relationship Ends

Getting engaged is one of the highlights of most people's lives. It is the point at which a couple have recognised a desire to spend the rest of their lives together and want to acknowledge to the world their shared devotion and commitment. Unfortunately, for one reason or another, this love can sour. Not only do 1 in 3 marriages end in divorce but many people do not even managed to stay enamored long enough to make it through the wedding.

In these circumstances, ownership of the engagement ring is probably the last thought on either parties mind. At some point further down the line though when the dust has settled, the subject may well come up. If the split has not been done amicably then it can in fact end up being a serious bone of contention. However, in the UK at least, despite the emotions tied up in the process, the law on who owns the diamond engagement ring is clear.

The woman is allowed to keep it as by law the ring is considered an absolute gift which means it has become her property and therefore remains so. It is hers to do with as she likes, she can even put it up for sale if she so chooses. The only exception to this rule is if the diamond solitaire engagement ring has been given under the condition of marriage. This means that at the point of exchange the man has made it either implicitly or explicitly clear that the ring is only hers to keep should the wedding take place, a decision which was found in the case of Jacobs v David (1917).

This tradition of keeping the ring originally equated to a symbol of financial compensation, rather then any romantic notion. Before the 1930's it was common practice for women to be able to sue for "Breach of Promise" if the wedding did not take place after a betrothal. This was because women were still expected to be pure at the time of marriage. However many would indulge in sexual relations during the engagement period because it was considered safe. If a man then backed out of the marriage, the woman could be perceived as "damaged goods" and it was for this reason that financial retribution was sought.

After this period, judges started to phase out this ruling so women looked for something else to prove that the commitment was real. This is when the sale of diamond engagement rings really started to take off because it was considered a worthy substitute. Fortunately nowadays as the roles of men and women have become more equalised the ring is able to regain much of its' original status as a romantic symbol.

For couples looking today the best place for them to go to see a wide variety of rings is the Internet. Here they can find a range of different engagement rings and all types of diamond engagement settings and styles at prices up to 60 percent of those on the high street.