Diamond Buying AdviceDiamond Advice and Information on Choosing a Diamond

Bachelor fans this season are looking forward to what appears to be the most dramatic and exciting final rose ceremony ever on ABC’s The Bachelor reality show. While the show won’t appear for another week, spoilers are now appearing on television related blogs and fans are wondering exactly which lovely lady will be receiving that final rose and *gasp* that much sought after diamond engagement ring. Do you have any guesses?

Jake Pavelka Bachelor

Jake Pavelka is a very tempting bachelor and it is easy to see exactly why so many women have hoped to have that final rose handed to them. With a charming smile and piercing blue eyes, this good-looking pilot from Texas sounds like the perfect sought after single man so many women hope to find. A very good catch indeed! Now we are down to just two women considered to be the future Mrs. Pavelka. Here’s hoping Jake finds the love of his life on the Bachelor and hands this diamond engagement ring to the perfect lucky lady of his dreams. Many may remember Jake as he did appear on an episode of The Bachelorette and have a date with Jillian Harris. He was a “fan favorite” as the great guy with lots of honesty and an open heart. But Jillian rejected Jake and chose another guy instead. What was she thinking we wonder???

Vienna is one of the young women in competition for Jake. According to the ABC site for The Bachelor Jake himself says this about Vienna: “She’s the life of the party. She’s very blunt and very honest about her intentions. She’s intense.”

Tenley is the other young woman competing for Jake. A 25 year old college administrator, she’s hung high hopes on Jake. According to the ABC site for The Bachelor, Tenley says, “Jake is the first man I’ve kissed since my ex-husband.”

So far spoilers and hints from the show are leaning towards Vienna as the one who will be wearing the diamond engagement ring on her finger. With the other bachelorette Tenley sent home to polish off a tub of ice cream to drown her sorrows.

The last episode showed Bachelor Jake Paveka looking at Vienna’s hand and asking which type of engagement ring she liked. While this seemed a bit over the top, and giving away the ending of the show – he probably asked the same question of Tenley and they simply didn’t air that part. We’re wondering if they showed this part with Vienna to keep us guessing who wins or to surprise us with a different bachelor than the one we think is going to win.

The show’s host Chris Harrison asked Pavelka if he was pleased with his final decision, viewers saw him answer “yes.” Apparently in reality there was a long pregnant pause before Pavelka answered the question. Leaving us to wonder about his decision and this final rose ceremony with the much sought after diamond engagement ring. Oh the tension and excitement is building! We don’t think we can stand it much longer!

Now we wonder if Pavelka chose a bachelorette and now regrets his decision. Who do you think he chose – Vienna or Tenley? And if he chose one of them, do you think he regrets his initial decision and wishes he chose the other one? Tell us Bachelor fans – who do you think is going to be handed that final rose and get that wonderful, sparkly diamond engagement ring on her finger? At this point…time will only tell…

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Hilary Duff’s had an exciting 2010 so far. This month (February), the petite and pretty actress got engaged to popular NHL player Mike Comrie. The two have been together for two years before Comrie popped the question this February. While the happy couple has not set an official date for the wedding…everyone is abuzz about Hillary’s gorgeous diamond engagement ring…worth $1Million! Now that’s a way to pop the question to the girl of your dreams!

Hilary Duff is both an actress and a singer. Well known for the television show Lizzie McGuire, Duff has appeared in many movies including Cheaper by the Dozen, The Lizzie McGuire Movie and A Cinderella Story. Her albums include her first album Metamorphosis which was certified triple platinum and Dignity, which was, certified Gold. Duff is known for great dance tunes like “With Love,” “Stranger,” and “Reach Out.” Best of Hillary Duff was released in 2008 and had her third #1 Billboard hit song, “Reach Out.”

Hockey player Mike Comrie gave Hillary Duff a 4.5 carat sparkler of a ring. Comrie has a $10Million three-year contract with the Edmonton Oilers. We can see the Comrie is really following that old “rule of thumb” about the woman’s engagement ring being worth a significant portion of the man’s income. A million dollar diamond engagement ring shows off a lot of sparkle and shimmer on any woman’s finger. And we couldn’t think of anyone more lovely than the well known actress Hillary Duff to receive such a stunning bauble.

One may wonder how a petite actress will manage with such a large diamond – it may be a bit heavy on her hand! Fans will be glad to know Hillary was all smiles and grins as the happy couple took a fun vacation to Hawaii last week. Hillary was spotted wearing her fresh and new diamond engagement ring out by the pool. We hope the lifeguard was watching the swimmers – the light from Hillary’s engagement ring could have gotten in his eyes. We know how a beautiful diamond will sparkle – just imagine how a 4.5 carat diamond sparkles under the Hawaiian sunlight!

We know that this diamond may very well steal the spotlight for a short time. It’s not every day you see a beautiful 4.5 carat diamond on such a lovely young woman’s hand. A rather unique sight to be seen. Hillary Duff has always been a head turner and with this latest sparkler we think she is going to turn even more heads and perhaps strain a couple of necks. She may even cause a bit of envy among fellow diamond lovers who are a few carats shy of that 4.5 carats she has on her hand!

This couple seems meant to be together. Recently they purchased a charming $10Million dollar home in Beverly Hills, California. Looks like they are feathering their nest….could the pitter patter of little feet be far behind? We’ll just have to see….

Sources: http://www.onewed.com/wedding-news/2010/02/24/hilary-duffs-diamond-engagement-ring-worth-1-million

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The Golden Globes is a night of glamour and glitz, and this year was no different. But for Jane Krakowski – this year’s Golden Globes was special indeed. Krakowski had a little extra special to share. Especially noticed was her glowing smile and her lovely diamond engagement ring.

OneWed.com stated Krakowski wore her diamond engagement ring for the evening – a large square-cut stone on a platinum band. For the Golden Globe awards she wore a purple gown, drawing fans and photographers to her like bees to honey.

Husband-to-be Robert Godley was going to propose as they traveled to London but their flight was canceled. Godley proposed during the holiday season. Godley is the co-founder of Psycho Bunny, an upscale menswear clothing business. Krakowski said he found another way to propose. As we can see, she said Yes!

Fans especially know Krakowski for her role as Jenna Maroney on the TV network themed 30 Rock. She also played the funny law secretary Elaine Vassal on the very popular Ally McBeal. Krakowski won Screen Actors Guild Awards for both roles. She has performed on both television and the stage.

The newly-engaged woman may not have such a glamorous occasion as the Golden Globes to launch her engagement ring on the world. But there are many ways you can show off your lovely new diamond – and be sure to get many compliments. You don’t have to be a big Hollywood star to deserve the spotlight for awhile. Everyone deserves a little special attention – especially the newly engaged. But quite often you need to let people in your life know that you are newly engaged. Don’t want to tell them outright? Don’t worry – here comes the easy part! Try some of our favorite ways to show off your new glitter and sparkle:

Throw an engagement party and let everyone congratulate you on the engagement. This is the perfect time for family and friends to gawk and compliment your stunning diamond ring.

Whether daytime or nighttime – always keep your hands and nails in tip-top shape. The newly engaged woman needs to keep up with her manicure appointments. This little tip alone will have far more people noticing your lovely new diamond engagement ring than many other tips we could think to share with you.

Reach out and shake hands, pat people on the shoulder, point with your hand – do things that draw attention to your right hand. It will be a very easy next step to notice that glittery, sparkly lovely diamond engagement ring you are wearing. We bet you’ve noticed many engagement rings with this trick and didn’t even realize this trick was being done to you!

Remember to share with those who compliment your ring what type of ring it is and how your husband proposed. Many are curious as to what type of diamond ring you are wearing – there are so many styles available today. Some of the hottest trends available now include the colored diamonds. Your proposal story is always special and unique – family and friends will want to be sure to hear that in your own words! Congratulations!

Source: http://www.onewed.com/wedding-news/2010/01/18/jane-krakowski-reveals-diamond-engagement-ring-golden-globes, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Krakowski, http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20334933,00.html

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Great news is on the horizon for the technologically savvy person in search of the perfect diamond engagement ring. It seems that diamond daydreaming (or providing hints for that special someone) has now been elevated to the point of being at least one step closer to reality. This past summer, an Apple iPhone application was released to the public that will more than likely have great appeal to diamond engagement ring daydreamers, as well as to those who would like to try before they buy. And the best part is this: It is absolutely free!

How does it work? First, a picture of your hand, taken by an Apple iPhone camera is downloaded. The application, named “Live Diamond Tryon“, was developed to allow a user to virtually design a diamond engagement ring in any and every configuration possible! Even more fascinating, is the fact that the resulting virtual ’ring’ image, when laid on top of the picture of the hand, will appear in the correct proportions; as if in actual size.

Meaning…one would be able to have an eerily close idea of what it would feel like to be wearing “the real thing”. This application is so ’smart’, that it even has the ability to show the ’ring’ at different angles; enabling it to sparkle, shine and behave closely in the same manner as its genuine counterpart. Carat size (up to 5), shape, settings….each of these can be virtually chosen and assembled within the privacy of one’s own home or office. Or…if one is brave enough and wishes to do so, the resulting captured image can also be “facebooked“, “twittered“, “myspaced”… you name it. So now after you have created the perfect ring , what next? Only your trusted jeweler has the ability to make your diamond dreams come true. In the meantime… “You can’t touch this!”

Hammer time!

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The presentation of an engagement ring is one of the monumental steps taken in the transformation of a relationship; immediately elevating it from an informally casual, to a decidedly serious stage. With so much time, money, effort, and emotion put into the selection and purchase; it only stands to reason that the presentation should be just as memorable and just as charming.

Each engagement should be special; and each day usually finds many a prospective groom wracking his brain in the pursuit of discovering that one unique or novel way to make his all-important presentation a memorable one. Along with the usually expected special dinner or surprise location, we have discovered yet another clever way to present an engagement ring…to supplement the surprise factor… in one of the most charming ways possible… a lighted ring box.

What nicer way could there be, than to be presented with a sparkling diamond engagement ring by a dimly lit restaurant table side; or on a darkened night beneath a shimmering moon. Yes, believe it or not, there are ring boxes available that are fitted with LED devices; specially designed to illuminate the engagement ring at the precise moment the box is opened. One will find that boxes of this type are available in price ranges that are surprisingly affordable. Do you prefer velvet or leather?

Of course, the cost is largely based on the materials used; and so varies from vendor to vendor. Also, please in mind that it should complement the ring and not detract from it, and that real radiance emanates…through love.

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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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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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It is a very exciting time isn’t it? The prospect of buying an engagement ring for your love of a lifetime. You begin to think it only reasonable that such a perfect love be symbolized with a perfect diamond engagement ring. But, have you done your homework?

Please keep in mind that diamonds, real diamonds are created by nature; and are prone to having at least a few blemishes, or inclusions. Because of this, the industry has developed a grading scale. This scale is called the GIA clarity grading scale, and is based on what can be seen under a 10X loupe magnification. A “perfectly clear”, or colorless diamond would be one without obstructions blocking any light passing through it; the result being one of extraordinary brilliance. As you may have already guessed, these types of diamonds are fairly rare and can be quite costly.

Yes, engagement and wedding rings are to be chosen carefully, and should be expected to be beautiful. Not to worry…If an absolutely perfect and flawless diamond is out of your budget reach, there are a number of in-between grades that you may find to be almost equally as beautiful, quite acceptable, and to your liking. For instance: In the case of a multi-stone diamond ring, you may choose to have a larger, more visible stone be of a finer quality than any smaller companion diamonds surrounding it.

Again, since selecting an engagement or diamond wedding ring is something that one does not do on an every day basis, it is good to seek the advice and expertise of a reputable jeweler, who will be more than happy to assist you in being clear with your selection.

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Before making that special promise, a lot of thought usually is involved in choosing a diamond engagement ring or bridal set. Oftentimes a platinum setting is viewed as being the ultimate; a premier complement, representing the very best for showcasing beautiful, carefully selected gems.

While it can be universally agreed upon that platinum is indeed a most awesome choice, did you realize that there is another type of metal setting available; one that is just as beautiful, yet more affordable?

As prices of platinum have risen over the last few years, more attention is being focused on platinum’s attractive alternative…Palladium.

Palladium is not new to the fine jewelry scene. It has been used in jewelry making for some time now, and has garnered a most solid reputation. Palladium can be a good alternative for a number of reasons. The metal itself resembles platinum in color, yet is about 12% harder. It is even harder than white gold, but is similar in price. However, it still needs to be treated with care and proper handling ; just as in the case of all fine jewelry.

Although in the past, palladium had not been promoted as much as platinum, this is now quickly changing. Palladium is now gaining wide notice amongst jewelry wearers, as its durability has been tried and tested. In addition to bridal sets; three stone rings, solitaires, as well as plain, but beautifully crafted, solid bands can all be found in this now popular metal.

Add to this, the fact that palladium is also light-weight and hypo-allergenic, and you have a jewelry piece that is sure to get your attention.

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The selection of an engagement ring is usually an emotional choice. Once selected and presented , the engagement ring immediately becomes an important component of the couple’s sentimental package, as well as a thing to talk about for the years to come. Because of its becoming a part of the ongoing legacy, a poor ring selection would be difficult to return or exchange. This is why care should be taken when selecting an engagement ring, symbolizing this most important step in a personal relationship. While budget and personal choice are major factors in the selection, the ever important 4Cs, cut, color, carat and clarity, should still be kept in mind prior to making a diamond selection.

Along with budget considerations, the personality of the intended recipient will also need to be considered. Keep in mind that the selected engagement ring is to become part of the bride’s permanent jewelry collection and that, while it may not be a reflection of the relationship, it is a direct reflection of the taste and personality of the giver. Diamond engagement rings are available in many styles and cuts.

While the tasteful, single round solitaires are still a “safe” choice, the availability of other styles are very much worth considering. A single solitaire does not necessarily have to be round any more. One now has the flexibility to make a selection from any number of cuts. Even more exciting news is that today’s diamond engagement ring no longer has to be a single solitaire. It can be surrounded by other accompanying diamonds or other complementing gems, for example sapphires or rubies. Regardless of size or configuration, a diamond engagement ring should be carefully selected, for it is, after all… a matter of the heart.

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