Naked Hope Diamond

On a cool Wednesday, September morning in 2009, the Hope Diamond was presented to the press (and to the public) in her original, unadorned state. For the first time in the 50 years since she first went on display, the beautiful 45.5 carat blue lady appears, well… “naked”. Meaning that, for many “after-1960s” born members of this world’s population, an opportunity will be provided to see what she looked like prior to being set in platinum, laid in a setting of 16 white diamonds, and dangled from a 45 diamond necklace.

She will remain “naked”, in all her blue glory throughout the upcoming winter. But please be assured that blue is simply her color and not her mood; as she excitedly awaits the completion of her new setting, “Embracing Hope”. After polling more than 100,000 voters, this setting was chosen to be the favorite out of three possible candidates. From start to finish, Harry Winston Diamond Corp. has been in charge of the preparation of this fine, as well as world-famous, National Gem. Ribbon-like in appearance, the new “Embracing Hope” setting will be a temporary one; as its major purpose is to be showcased during a documentary sponsored by the Smithsonian entitled “Mystery of the Hope Diamond”.

The documentary is scheduled to premier in April 2010. No doubt, many will find the story of the Hope Diamond fascinating, as it is followed from its humble beginnings, to its rightful place in today’s modern history. For many, it should bring back memories of times gone by, and for others, the beautiful Hope Diamond will be a treasure to be discovered yet anew.

source, article by DanforthDiamond.com, experts in diamond engagement rings.

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Photo by Stewart Leiwakabessy

It appears that the bar is continually being raised when it comes to finding rare diamonds…especially colored diamonds. In this particular case, the diamond we speak of is a gorgeous 7.03 carat, practically perfect blue diamond. To attain this almost absolute perfection, it was cut from an original 27 carat stone. Blue diamonds (second in scarcity only to red diamonds) are some of the rarest precious stones that can be found. What makes this particular diamond especially awesome, is that it is said to be internally ‘flawless’; an uncommon quality when it comes to diamonds…period.

The blue diamond (currently in a ring setting, and as of yet unnamed), will be the main attraction at an upcoming fine jewelry auction, and is scheduled to be auctioned off in Geneva, Switzerland by Sotheby’s sometime in May. It is estimated that it will command a price somewhere within the 5 to 8 million dollar (US) range.

The diamond, hailing from South Africa, and found in the Cullinan mine; was extracted by Petra Diamonds. This particular mine has had the reputation of regularly yielding high quality diamonds for quite some time now.

During these uncertain financial times, the price of diamonds of the highest quality remain somewhat steady; as they are timeless and remain mostly unaffected. Although fairly rare, diamond jewelry of color can be found at reputable jewelers located in less than exotic places. Of course, one would not expect to find a world class, museum quality, diamond just sitting around in a mall; but just think: Any diamond can truly be a one-of-a-kind diamond in its own right, when given to a one-of-a-kind-person. Although a reputable jeweler will certainly be able to assist you in finding the diamond; it‘s up to you to find the person. Now that’s what you can call rare!

http://www.ny1.com/content/top_stories/97695/rare-blue-diamond-gets-preview-at-sotheby-s/Default.aspx

http://news.aol.com/article/blue-diamond-auction/436116

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Photo by debritter16

It can be almost unanimously agreed upon, that having a special Mother is amongst being one of the most wonderful in human experiences; even though some of these ladies who bear the name of ‘Mother‘ or ‘Mom‘, may have had little resemblance to what many of us would consider to be the traditional Mother.

Even though a great many of them have come into our lives via the non-traditional route of adoption or foster parenting; oftentimes these are the only mothers that many of us have ever known. What do you give to a woman who has been everything to you? While cards and flowers have always been “safe” gifts over the years; with a little creativity, we can venture well beyond rigid established traditions, and dare to create a few lasting ones of our own. As a child, were you often accused of not listening to her? The gift of a lovely pair of diamond earrings can help to smooth over past transgressions; as well as serve as a constant reminder that you now hear her “loud and clear”. Remember the macaroni necklace you made for her when your were eight years old? Has it really been that long? Well, it is definitely time for an upgrade. Why not replace it with a beautiful diamond necklace or bracelet.

And so to the women who kissed our ‘boo-boos’, bandaged our skinned knees, wiped our noses and changed our diapers; Mama, Nana, Mom, Big Mom, Mommy, Auntie, Big Sis, Mimi, Gran, Gram, Maw-Maw, Grandmother, Grandma…We say: Thank you .

Happy Mother’s Day to you all!

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Black Diamonds

The black diamonds known as carbonados got their name for their carbonized, or burnt, look. Source: PBS.org

Still looking for a unique and unusual jewelry gift for Valentine’s day? If so, you may want to consider a gift of a Black diamond jewelry piece. Black (or carbonado) diamonds can be found only in certain parts of Central Africa and Brazil; and are usually smaller in size than your typical white diamond. You will find that Carbonado diamonds also have a few of their own special characteristics. This, in itself would make for an interesting discussion; as we could go into a rather lengthy scientific explanation as to how they are discovered and formed. However, for the time being, we’ll leave out the science, and just focus on what sets them apart and makes them nice to look at.

Because of the inclusions of other minerals within them, Carbanado diamonds tend to have quite a different look…, an unusual luminous quality being among them. Most will agree that this feature only adds to their exceptional appearance, and gives them their own unique identifying marks.

A jewelry piece composed entirely of Carbanado (or black diamonds) can be a stunning choice; but since this type of diamond is pretty much a new arrival on the popular jewelry fashion scene; many who are not quite used to seeing them, may choose to select a diamond jewelry piece where they are used as compliments to other gems. For instance: How about a setting with an alternating patterning of black diamonds, white diamonds? Whatever you choose to do, take care that your decision rests on a jewelry piece that you are proud to give, and most of all…make sure that it reflects the warm spirit of the occasion. In other words: Put your heart into it.

Happy Valentines Day!

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Although facts pertaining to the actual time and receipt of the first engagement ring are not clear, it is believed that history will show that betrothals, even as far back as the late 1400’s, were usually marked by the giving of a ring of some kind. It is said that the custom of presenting a diamond ring as a symbol of serious intent, may have originated in Europe, when Archduke Maximilian of Hamburg chose this approach to seal the deal with Mary of Burgundy. No doubt, the thrilled look on her face, may have prompted other well-to-do nobles and wealthy onlookers, to follow this pioneering trend setter and do the same. Since diamonds are among the strongest and most heat resistant minerals in existence, it would only seem appropriate that such a serious proposal of marriage be represented with a gem of like substance. Just think: If not for his innovative thinking, she may have gotten a horse and buggy!

As time progressed, trends changed. Before the late 1800’s diamonds had been extremely rare. However, in the 19th century, diamonds became more abundant, with most of them coming from South Africa. Along with abundance, came affordability, (as well as availability) and so many who previously were not able to obtain them, soon discovered that it was well within reach, to grasp a shining star of their very own. And so they did.

This fact did not go unnoticed ; and so as the 20th century rolled around, the diamond supply originating from South Africa, began to come under the control of De Beers, the industry leader. In time, around 1947, De Beers began an aggressive and effective diamond marketing campaign. Not long afterwards, Hollywood began to pick up on the glamorous trend. Stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell soon propelled diamond popularity to new heights, and before long, almost every single lady involved in a committed relationship, wanted a diamond engagement ring of her very own.

However, regardless of history or marketing, it can be said that diamonds have remained gorgeous throughout the ages; and that a diamond engagement ring still remains the ultimate symbol of  love and new beginnings.

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Enter: The right hand diamond ring

A right hand diamond ring can be seen as a ‘status neutral’ expression of independence; and as declaration of the fact that anyone has the right to wear a diamond (or diamonds), without being questioned as to its meaning. Right hand diamond rings can simply, or elaborately, attest to wearer’s love of fine jewelry. Beautifully crafted, make no mistake about it, they are not intended to be substandard versions or coy imitations of the standard engagement ring. Unlike traditional engagement rings, right hand diamond rings are not typically demure, but are usually bold, free formed, gorgeous creations that clearly have personalities of their very own.

Whether married or not, one can choose diamonds from many wonderful styles, while keeping in mind that one does have a ‘right‘ to wear one.

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