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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This is the time of year when many prospective grooms look for interesting and unusual ways to propose to their sweethearts. Hot air balloon rides, special surprise dinners, moonlit walks, a special vacation, …all of these usually come to mind as potential options.

When making plans, one would do well to consider the following true story: One Mr. James Ng came up with the brilliant idea of proposing to his beloved in a hot air balloon while soaring far above the ground. The 26-year-old man (who, is by the way, a pastor), hired a balloonist, put the diamond ring in a box; and tucked the box safely deep down into his camera case…Ah, ready for the big moment.

The time arrives, and at 500 feet into the air he accidentally dropped the camera case containing ring overboard. Yes, it slipped away from him, and dropped into the dense landscape below. His “almost-fiance“, Sony Bostic did not realize what was going on…until she saw the look on his face. Although he was heartbroken; he was no fool. After all, it took the man over a year to save up for his bride’s one-carat engagement ring, and he was not about to let it go at that! After taking full note of his surroundings, and coming back down to earth, he went on a all out search. It took almost a week; but the camera bag was discovered on the ground in a wooded area…all of its contents scattered about, or blown away. The only thing remaining? At the bottom of the bag lay the box containing the ring. His engagement was saved, and now he has a story to go along with it that will last a lifetime.

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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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While Valentine’s day brings its own unique pressures, it is always a wise move to use any declarations of affection with extreme caution, especially when a relationship is at the unsure “I *heart* you” stage. This one can be tricky. And so, with this, we admonish you to use “I like you” , “I love you” or “I *heart* you” with care.  Because, after all, there is life after Valentine’s day. Consider yourself warned. After this, you’re on your own.

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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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Probably a fake diamond.

Pretty, isn’t it? But is it real? It sparkles, it flashes, it behaves like the real thing…but is it? In view of some of the most recent scientific and technological advances, sometimes it can be extremely difficult to distinguish a real diamond gemstone from a synthetic, lab-created stone. However, with a bit of detective work, it can be done. When an investment is made for such a costly purchase as an engagement ring or wedding ring, peace of mind can, and should be of utmost importance.

One way to determine whether or not a diamond is genuine, is to weigh it. Synthetic diamonds weigh about 1.5 more than the “real thing.” This can easily be determined by having it verified on a gram or carat scale. Another simple thing would be to examine the stone externally f

or any obvious scratches or blemishes. Diamonds are among the hardest substances found in nature, and can usually only be scratched by another diamond. Also, by taking a look at the depth of the brilliance, one can be given clue as to whether or not it is the “real thing.” With a genuine diamond, light is more refractive, and will cause the diamond to sparkle from all sides, whereas most synthetic stones will have a sparkly surface and no depth…all “razzle dazzle” with no substance. Heat is also rapidly dispersed with a genuine diamond, and so a heat probe can also flush out any fakes in almost no time at all.

However, if you want to be absolutely, 100% sure, a trusted jeweler, or professional gemologist (Gemological Institute of America, GIA) can provide a certificate of authenticity.

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“Big Girls Need Big Diamonds” – Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor - One BIG Diamond

Well, there is no doubt about it. The time to purchase an engagement ring for your beloved has finally arrived. You thought that you were ready, but in all of the excitement, find that you have not really given full consideration to the desired carat weight. Although you have found the perfect style and setting, you have yet to decide what size diamond you should really aim for. This one is a personal choice, and will require a bit of soul searching.

By now, you should have also figured out any budgetary considerations, if necessary. If you have not done so, be sure to check with your trusted jeweler. Ask yourself: Just what will she be expecting? Is she a petite person with small fingers? Or, is she tall, with long slender fingers? Will the main stone be offset with companion stones? Is size more important than sparkle and brilliance?

Although a diamond of any carat size would be more than likely accepted with gratitude and excitement, it certainly will bring more joy and happiness, if the selection has been meticulously planned; and if serious thought has been put into the choice made.  Trust an expert on this one:  No girl is going going to turn down a whopper!  In any case, be sure to make a choice that you both can be proud of.  Don’t forget what Liz said! (This can also be true for even most “little” girls) ;-)

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Go on. You can do it! But for now…Congratulations and best wishes on your new and exciting adventure!

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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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Have you been shopping for engagement or wedding rings lately? If you have, it is quite possible that, by now, you have seen dozens and dozens of them. You may feel as if you would recognize the perfect ring almost immediately ; the moment you laid eyes on it; but now you are beginning to wonder if such a thing actually exists! Are the following words now familiar to you: “This particular ring is almost what we want!…if only the diamond were of a better quality.“ Or…“The diamond is absolutely gorgeous; it’s just that the setting isn’t one that we particularly care for.”

Although it requires a little more effort and time, you may give some thought to purchasing one or more loose diamonds; then showcasing them in a setting of your choice. Carefully choosing quality loose diamonds, and matching them with either a unique commissioned and designed setting, or an already available setting, most certainly can be one of your options.

However, one would not just walk up to a jeweler and ask for a generic diamond….any diamond, just to fit a chosen setting. The selection of a loose diamond requires that just as much thought be put into it as one would when purchasing an already designed and readily available wedding or engagement ring. It also goes without saying, that the 4C’s play an important role in making a wise and intelligent choice. Oftentimes, after examining a diamond, the fire and personality of the stone itself, will inspire an appropriate setting . Again, your jeweler will be more than happy to work with you, and to help with your final selection.

If you are creative enough, finding the perfect ring may be a simple matter of just letting your imagination run loose.

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