Diamond Buying AdviceDiamond Advice and Information on Choosing a Diamond

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.

That is the question…

Last week, one of our favorite diamond wearing divas, Jennifer Lopez, attended a fashion show sponsored by her buddy, (and ours) Andrea Lieberman. She chose to adorn herself with $50,000 dollars worth of “borrowed” diamonds from Swiss billionaire jeweler Robert Mouawad. Remember him? He is , of course, the proud owner of the 60-carat, 50million dollar, Mondera diamond. Ah, we knew that would “ring a bell!”

But we digress…

A number of other celebrities attending the same event (Leah Remini, Gwen Stefani) displaying similar exquisite taste; also elected to show off a few additional diamond sparklers from Mr. Mouawad’s massive jewelry collection. The big difference: After playing “dress up” for a few hours, Leah and Gwen, recognizing that fun time was over, promptly returned theirs. However, it seems, J Lo, developed a particular fondness for her chosen pieces, and, heroically decided that she would keep “hers;” thus sparing herself the pain of having to be forever separated from them. Now, that is the kind of true “diamond love” that almost brings a tear to the eye! We’re talking about a complete ensemble here folks…including a ring, a necklace, and an armful of bracelets!

Apparently, there appeared to be some kind of “mix-up” as it seemed to a few casual observers, that the definition of “borrowed” had been conveniently redefined. (Don’t you just hate it when that happens?) But, not to worry! Her Manager quickly cleared up the misunderstanding; explaining that the diamond jewelry was “offered” as a little token of appreciation for her endorsement. We did not get the memo, and so as a result, had not been privy to this vital piece of information.

No harm done. After all, what’s a paltry $50,000 dollars worth of jewelry between friends?

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/thedishrag/2009/03/jennifer-lopezs.html

Post provided by Danforth Diamonds, experts in fine engagement rings.

The 81^st Academy Awards are now over; and let us first say that we were not disappointed. The gowns were beautiful and the jewelry spectacular! Let’s review some of the highlights:

Amy Adams (Best Supporting Actress nominee) chose to wear a draping Fred Leighton creation composed of sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. This fabulous necklace just happened to be also set with 39 carats of diamond shimmer!

Heidi Klum and Beyonce both elected to wear jewelry borrowed from the Lorraine Schwartz collection. Beyonce, in gold diamond leaf; and Heidi clad in close to a million dollars’ worth of the sparkling baubles.

Penelope Cruz, of course, “took the cake,” with her haul of Chopard diamonds. Estimated worth? $3 million dollars…the diamond necklace alone weighing 69 carats. Kate Winslet also showed her affinity for Chopard; accenting her outfit with a beautiful diamond bracelet.

Halle Berry‘s jewelry of choice? H. Stern diamonds. The fun and perky Marisa Tomei took the “retro route”; with her selection of diamond jewelry hailing from various decades: A 1941 Van Cleef & Arpel sapphire and diamond bracelet, a diamond ring from the 1960’s, and diamond earrings representing the early 1970’s.

We, of course, had initially predicted that many of the jewelry selections worn by the majority of the attending celebrities, would be understated pieces. And, true to our prediction, many came through wearing just what had been expected. However, to be perfectly honest, it sure was nice to see the occasional, fantabulous “over-the-top” eye-popping bling. The 81^st Academy Awards? … This year? A success.

‘twas a feast for the eyes!

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!

Tequila and diamonds!

Could this guy be a diamond in the rough?

Under normal circumstances, if asked, one would be hard pressed to come up with a way to make any connection between the two. However, this past summer, three research scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, stumbled upon a new use for the widely popular alcoholic beverage, creating an unusual relationship between the unlikely pair. The interesting and exciting buzz is not about intoxication, and the new twist has absolutely nothing to do with lime slices. Through experimentation, it was discovered that the atomic composition of tequila is proportionately similar to that of diamonds.

Yes, you read it correctly…Diamonds.

It was found that a combination of 60 percent water and 40 percent ethanol turns out to be almost the perfect set of ingredients needed for creating diamond film. With this astounding fact in mind, one of the three scientists, on the way to work one morning, decided to purchase a small bottle of inexpensive white tequila for testing. (Yeah, right ;-) )

To his amazement, in controlled circumstances, and in a device created especially for the experiment; he, along with his colleagues, were able to repeatedly create pure diamond crystals! But before you get too excited, note this: While the quality of diamond material produced is superb; the resulting diamonds are exceptionally small and are for the time being, good only for industrial use.

Unfortunately, diamonds created under these circumstances are unable, for now, to be produced in sizes that are suitable for use in fine diamond jewelry. This means that we will still have to visit our reputable jeweler for our quality gems and trinkets. But, for now… the tequila still goes into the margarita.

A journey is often described as the act of traveling from one place to another. Oftentimes, along the way, in an effort to forever retain memories of the event, souvenirs are collected, travel diaries written, pictures taken and recordings made.  The same can be said when it comes to our view of life.  Life is also  a journey onto itself, with milestones of births, weddings, anniversaries and other memorable occasions being reached, noted and otherwise marked along the way.

It is said that when two people come together and share a life of meaningful commitment, these occasions are also shared, and the memories of tears and smiles, as well as other ups and downs, become among those worth noting and keeping alive. Many couples have chosen to symbolize their undying love for each other with a journey diamond selection. Journey diamonds are usually drop earrings, pendants or diamond necklaces containing multiple diamonds in various sizes, usually in a pattern beginning with a small stone; then gradually ending in a larger stone. The settings can be as ornate or as simple as one’s personal taste or budget dictates, but the pattern of smaller stone to larger stone remains the constant in identifying journey diamond jewelry.

A journey diamond jewelry piece is a personal, yet outward expression…not of new love, but of love that has stood (and love that continues to stand) the test of trial and time; symbolizing the enduring, as well as , undying affection of two people. What a beautiful way to remember to keep the spark alive, as well as to honor such a continuous journey of love and devotion.

Best wishes for any travels ahead, and may all of your journeys be smooth ones.