The “Diamond Dip” is an annual part of the South Carolina Oconee Medical Center fundraiser. This year however, they have a bit of a mystery on their hands. The winner of a 3K diamond has not come forward for their lovely prize!

This is a real diamond

Turner’s Jewelry in Seneca, South Carolina gave the beautiful diamond for the South Carolina Oconee Medical Center Fundraiser. The glittery fundraiser attracted hundreds who were thrilled to dig through a bowl of “gems” and select one – with the hope of finding a genuine 3K diamond hidden somewhere in the bowl. The bowl was filled with hundreds of cubic zirconium “gems” – as we diamond lovers know these can look lovely and sparkly – but just are not the real thing!

To us this sounds like a fun and exciting game. Digging through a bowl of sparkly wonderfulness – there is nothing quite like it. Imagining if you could win a big and beautiful 3K diamond – all while helping a local charity continue their good works in your community. Sounds like a complete win-win situation for everyone concerned!

After guests dug through the bowl, Mark Turner and his staff from Turner’s Jewelers would use an electronic tester to confirm each “gem.” But at night’s end there was no winner – and in going through the contents of the bowl they also discovered that the diamond was missing! This means that some lucky winner may have the diamond – and simply doesn’t know it.

We hope all of those guests from the South Carolina Oceanee Medical Center event check their purses, pockets and other locations for those “gems.” One of them could be that winner. Take it back to Turner’s Jewelry for confirmed testing – then you’ll know for sure if you’ve got a winner on your hands!

Try our tips to tell if a diamond is real:

• Shine a light through the stone. If you can just see a “halo” around the edges, this is probably a diamond.

• Diamonds are strong heat conductors. Breathe on the diamond and see if it “fogs.” You won’t see condensation from the fog on a diamond.

• Remember: A jeweler at times cannot tell the difference between a genuine diamond and a “cultured” diamond. Careful examination and new tests done by jewelers can help prove it is genuine.

Part of the fun of this prize of course is that this diamond because so very much “your own” in every way. You’ve won it and hand-selected it. Or some might say that it hand-selected you! The idea that you found it in a bowl of cubic zirconias – makes one feel very lucky indeed. Would you have jewelry made for yourself? Or would you give it as a gift to that special loved one in your life? Or would you save it for someone special that you haven’t met yet?

Diamond lovers – we have to ask: what would you do if you won a beautiful 3K diamond? Would you have it designed into a pendant? Ring? Purchase another lovely sparkly diamond for matching earrings? Or create some magnificent sparkly custom diamond jewelry of your very own? There are so many fun decisions to make for that lucky winner! Let’s take a moment and imagine for ourselves – what would we do if this was us. What would you do if you discovered you’d won a stunning and sparkly 3K diamond?

Source: http://www.israelidiamond.co.il/english/News.aspx?boneId=918&objid=6529, http://www.wisegeek.com/how-can-you-tell-if-a-diamond-is-real.htm

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When one usually thinks of diamonds, (especially the perfect diamond) what usually comes to mind are those that are clear and white; diamonds believed to be so exceptionally perfect, that blinding rainbows burst out with every beam of light touching them.

Those types of diamonds, will more than likely boast a rating high on the official clarity scale chart. However, just suppose…what if…just what if… one happens to stumble upon the diamond of their dreams ; and it just happens to be a deep brown; with a radiating warmth and richness that can compare with no other? Many have found this to be just the case.

Back in the early 2000’s , a company by the name of Le Vian, no doubt noticing that many had an affinity for this type of diamond, capitalized on this fact. Prior to this, diamonds that were of this deep, warm, chocolate color were known as “low color (or brown) diamonds”. Since that time, many celebrities have developed a fondness for diamonds of this type; oftentimes being seen on the red carpet, and at many other high profile events wearing Le Vian diamonds.

Through somewhat aggressive campaigning, Le Vian has successfully marketed these diamonds; presenting them to an audience that has a natural tendency to thrive on the unusual and the daring. And with this; brown diamonds became “in”. Lest we forget: De Beers, via similar aggressive campaigning, had been highly successful in identifying what, at the time, appeared to be a niche market just a few short decades ago. Chocolate diamonds…could they possibly be for you? Well, to us it seems that it’s all just a matter of taste

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Diamond jewelry worn everyday; wedding ring sets and engagement rings in particular- are especially prone to appearing dull and lackluster. Constant wearing and unavoidable day-to-day activities exposes them to chemicals and other products designed for various uses.

If ever you find that your diamond jewelry has lost any of its sparkle, it should not be too difficult for you to trace back to find the culprits. A word to the wise: Chlorine bleach is not a diamond’s best friend! Avoid wearing your fine jewelry when using it. Hairsprays, dishwashing detergents, lotions, food and other “stuff” can quickly make even the most brilliant diamond appear to be a lifeless piece of costume jewelry. The solution?

Easy.

First of all, please keep in mind that diamonds are not indestructible and should be handled with care. The easiest (and least expensive) way to clean a diamond, is to swish it around in a bath of warm, soapy detergent. It is suggested that this not be done over a bathroom or kitchen sink, but in a separate container, to lessen the odds of your precious jewelry literally going down the drain. Make sure that the detergent is a mild one. A soft bristled brush can be used to gently remove any stubborn dirt or grime. After rinsing in warm water, a soft lint-free cloth can be used for drying. If you prefer a more professional home cleaning solution, it is good to know that there are excellent cleaning products available that are especially designed for the cleaning of fine jewelry.

As a caution: Be especially mindful if other gemstones are set next to your diamond(s); as they may not be able to withstand the same cleaning method as do diamonds. With proper care, your diamond jewelry should bring enjoyment for years!

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The Rose cut is among the oldest in diamond cuts; and is predominately found in rare antique jewelry. It was so named because of the pattern it displays when viewed from above….that of a blossoming rose.

This vintage diamond cut has its origin in the early 1500’s. It was actually quite popular; and could often be seen set in elaborately filigreed pendants, brooches, rings and bracelets. Diamonds cut in the rose pattern, were painstakingly done by hand; which naturally produced irregularities, but at the same time, it gave each individual stone its own unique character.

The rose cut became less popular as newer and more modern ways of diamond cutting were introduced. Machines, and state-of-the-art technology have since provided professional gem cutters with the ability to process diamonds with precision, while at the same time showcasing each individual stone’s best features and aiming for the maximum “wow“ factor; which the rose cut is not particularly famous for. The appeal appears to be more in the skill taken to turn a diamond into a wearable work of art, than in the actual shine. However, what it lacks in fire and brilliance; is more than made up in its quiet charm and scarcity. Many of these diamonds are quite rich in history and have interesting backgrounds.

Locating diamonds in the obsolete rose cut pattern is rare; as this cut is seldom made with diamonds found during these modern times. And so, as the ongoing quest for uniqueness continues, there has been a resurging public interest in this particular diamond cut; thus again proving: Everything old is new again.

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Let me tell you a story. This author’s story:

On our fifth wedding anniversary, my husband bought me a beautiful anniversary band; one center marquise diamond, flanked by two smaller marquise diamonds on either side. Fast forward three years later…

Getting ready to go to work on the first day after maternity leave…Dressed in a black skirt, and feeding my newborn a bottle; for some reason, I decide to look down at my ring finger. To my absolute horror, I discovered that the middle diamond was missing…Originally secured by two, apparently fragile prongs, a big gaping hole lay where there had once been a marquise stone. Panicked, I didn’t move. Suddenly, looking down, out of the corner of my eye, as I held my small son in the crook of my arm, I caught a small sparkle of light refracted from the loose diamond that sat squarely in the middle of my lap. Had I not looked down; or had I not worn a black skirt that particular morning, all would have been lost. I quickly snatched up the diamond and took the ring off. My husband took it to the jeweler later to have it re-secured.

A few years later, I lost the diamond again. Unfortunately, this time, it was not recovered. Is there a lesson in this? You bet. Prong settings do make a difference! Please keep the following in mind:

• A thin prong with a “hook” configuration can be easily pulled away. This configuration is not advised.
• Prongs should hold the diamond securely and have virtually no “wiggle room”
• Four prongs are more secure than two. Six prongs are more secure than four
• Have your ring examined by a professional jeweler at least yearly

It is hoped that my personal tale of heartache will not be yours, and also to serve as a reminder that it is possible to have the right diamond ring….but with the wrong prong. Check with your trusted jeweler to discover which prong is best for you.

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Picking out a diamond engagement ring is a very exciting and memorable experience. The more you know about diamonds the better you will be at finding the perfect diamond to fit your budget. To be able to choose a good quality diamond you must first understand the 4 C’s. The 4 C’s are cut, color, clarity and carat weight.

When a jeweler talks about a diamond’s cut they are not referring to the shape. The shape refers to the general appearance of the diamond. They are talking about the angles and proportions that are made when a rough diamond is transformed into a polished diamond.

The cut is probably the most important and the hardest to figure out when it comes to choosing a diamond.  The brilliance of the diamond depends heavily on its cut. The cut gives a diamond the brightness that shines throughout the diamond. Because the cut is so important there are several grading methods that have been developed to help determine the cut.  The grades are Ideal, Very Good, Good and Fair/Poor cuts.

The Ideal cut is intended to maximize brilliance and usually is more expensive.  Very Good cut diamonds will reflect most of the light that enters them creating a good deal of brilliance. The Good cut diamond can offer an excellent cost savings to you if you are trying to stay within a budget. The Good cut offers quality and beauty for a reasonable price. Most reputable jewelers stay away from cuts that are Fair to Poor, because this cut only reflects a small portion of light.

Most diamonds will contain some type of flaw or inclusions that happened during the formation process.  The number, size and visibility of these flaws determine the clarity of the diamond.  Diamonds that have less flaws or imperfections will create more brilliance and therefore are highly prized and pricier.

When it comes to diamonds, no color is the most desirable. This is because it allows the most reflection of light.  When jewelers are grading the color of a diamond, they refer to a professional color scale.  The scale begins with the highest rating of the letter “D” for colorless and a color scale continues all the way to Z. You will notice that there may be a very faint hint of yellow apparent in diamonds graded J through M. These grades of diamonds look very nice in a gold setting.

The carat is the unit of weight by which a diamond is measured.  Large diamonds are less common than small diamonds. The larger the diamond is, the higher the price.  To decide on the carat size you first need to determine your budget.  Deciding on the carat size is about striking a balance between size and quality.

These are just a few things that you should know when you are deciding on which diamond engagement ring to buy the love of your life.  It’s wise to shop around and do your homework and learn all you can about diamonds and pricing.  This is just a simple overview to give you an idea of what you need to look for.  You can do your own research and find out more about the 4 C’s and Diamond Certificates so you can make a knowledgeable decision on the ring for your fiancé.

by Lawrence Reaves

Photo by paulmcdee

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This month presents a vast range of gift choices for those who appreciate diamond jewelry, as well as for those who happen to have been born in April. The diamond is also this month’s official birthstone. (No foolin’!) It seems that one can never go wrong when selecting a gift of fine jewelry. For milestone events, such as birthdays and graduations, the gift of diamond earrings have consistently been proven to be a tried and true staple. Proud parents may choose to select a tasteful set of diamond earrings for a special young lady, as her first “grown up” jewelry . A husband may choose to surprise his wife with a perfectly matching set of diamond cluster earrings in recognition of the birth of a child, or maybe for a special anniversary.

This also happens to also be the month of bridal showers, as well as a time when many brides choose to make their final wedding jewelry and accessories selections. And oh…! Let us not forget bridesmaids’ gifts. Imagine: Identical pairs of tiny diamond studs for each attendant, as the ultimate “Thank You” from the bride, in appreciation for each one‘s continued friendship and support.

As an early wedding present, a prospective groom may choose to surprise his bride-to-be with a beautiful pair of diamond earrings; the intent being that she put them away for safekeeping…and then later emerge wearing them on their special and glorious day. Just picturing her quiet smile on the day of the wedding, as she puts them on in anticipation of the important step she will be taking, should send him racing to the nearest jeweler! This April: Shower your special loved one with the gift of diamonds.

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Nightingale of Kuala Lumpur

Just in time for the wedding season: Designer Faisol Abdullah is in the process of creating the ultimate dream diamond dress. The dress, festooned with 751 diamonds, is estimated to be worth an eye-popping $30 million! It has been named “Nightingale of Kuala Lumpur”. Highlighting the taffeta and silk creation, is a humongous 70 carat pear-shaped diamond, perched “smack dab in the middle” of the gown’s bodice. Further adding to the drama, is a voluminous diamond sprinkled train. The perfect wedding dress! (If only there were a diamond necklace and tiara to match)

Diamonds for the gown were furnished by the famed house of Mouawad. Although, under normal circumstances, it would take several months to obtain diamonds in this quantity and of this quality, Mr. Mouawad just happened to have had plenty of them stored hither and thither in various storehouses; thus enabling quick and easy access.

At the time of this writing, designer Abdullah is still said to be putting the finishing touches on his creation. Commissioned by Nancy Yeoh, CEO of STYLO, the diamond studded dress is scheduled to make its debut and headline in Malaysia, at the STYLO fashion festival; beginning sometime in April. Ms. Yeoh is anticipating that it will appeal to, and be worn by, some of the most prestigious personages of this planet. To ease any potential buyer’s guilty conscience, it sure helps to know that five percent of the sale price has been earmarked to go to a specific charity.

So far, a buyer has not yet been found for this fabulous (but frivolous) confection. Since it can be universally agreed upon that the price is “out of this world”, Ms. Yeho may want to extend her marketing efforts to include inhabitants possibly existing on any of the other eight planets in the solar system. That way, she may have at least a remote chance of making a speedier sale. And so we ask: Any takers?

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Spring is in the air, and along with the impending warmer weather season, comes thoughts of flowers, love and feelings of sentimentality. For those who may be in the market for a type of engagement ring that has the ability to easily stir up a lively conversation; or a diamond that readily brings Cupid to mind; a Hearts and Arrows diamond may just be the thing to suit your fancy. (Yes, there really is such a thing. ) A Hearts and Arrows diamond is a brilliant round shaped diamond that, when looked at from the top, reflects the likeness of arrows. When turned over, and viewed from a totally different angle, the display has a distinct similarity to the appearance of hearts.

The history of the Hearts and Arrows diamonds cut is quite interesting. Originally discovered in Japan during the 1980’s; and warmly accepted in the United States during the 1990’s, it is so named due to the unusual pattern it displays when placed under a special diamond viewer.

This particular cut, known for its precise symmetry, takes more than double the amount of time to cut and polish, as it would take to produce a similar sized regular round brilliant diamond cut, so expect the price to be at least comparatively higher.

Only a small percentage of diamonds produced today can be termed as authentic Hearts and Arrows. While checking the background and authenticity of any diamond is always a wise thing to do, this important step becomes particularly important when selecting any specialty diamond pieces. This means that any purchaser would need to take the necessary steps to ensure that any diamond labeled as such, has the characteristics of a true Hearts and Arrows diamond, because after all, a true love deserves to be recognized with a true diamond.

Happy Spring from Danforth Diamonds, who believe in helping you find the perfect diamond.

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What’s that you say? You “forgot all about it!“ Pity. Well, we haven’t! Due to another previous engagement, we, regretfully, will be unable to attend this year. However, we do have inside information as to what can be expected to be seen on the red carpet. Of course, there will be the usual cameras, limousines, haute couture…and, let’s not forget jewelry. On this occasion, accessories will reign supreme; with diamonds being among the most talked about accessory of them all!

With the state of the U.S. economy being as it is now; simplicity appears to be the “buzz” this year. While you can still be sure to witness a parade of dangling sparklers, many attendees have chosen to present an understated look this year. Button earrings and diamond studs will prove to be safe choices for those who have made the decision to highlight a magnificent gown instead.

Another surprise is that many of the diamond earrings worn will be clip-ons. This is not just a retro-fashion trend, but it has a practical use; as many diamond earrings tend to be heavy, which makes the clip-on a sensible alternative.  Finding the perfect diamond to wear was not an easy task for any of the stars attending.

This is not to say that there will not be any spectacular diamond pieces on display. There will be…that’s part of the allure. However, before you begin stirring up feelings of jealousy within yourself, please be assured that many of these priceless pieces are on loan; and that the wearer is without a doubt, shadowed by tuxedo clad security personnel, who are there to protect the wearer, and then gather up the baubles shortly after the festivities are over.

Now you have it! And so, although we will miss attending the Academy Awards this year, let’s make definite plans to get together next year. In the meantime,  we’ll just have “our people” call “your people.” Let’s do lunch sometime.

Ta Ta! Oh, and let’s both be sure to pick out the perfect diamond bracelet for next year’s event.

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