Diamond Buying AdviceDiamond Advice and Information on Choosing a Diamond

Just what are Channel diamonds?

The term channel refers to the arrangement of diamonds in a manner and in a setting where each diamond is set side by side; precisely lined up within two bands of precious metal. Within these bands of usually either platinum or gold, there is usually no additional metal separating diamond from diamond. The result is a spectacular jewelry piece, with absolutely no illusion. What you see is pure gemstone against gemstone, shimmer against shimmer… with no filler added.

While there may be a bit of room for resizing, as in the case of a half diamond band; due to an unusually close and precise fit, extra special care needs to be taken when selecting a full diamond filled band. There need not be any uneasiness associated with this, as a reputable jeweler will be more than happy to advise, as well as assist you with a proper selection and fit.

Channel diamonds can be wonderful complements for any solitaire engagement ring. Just imagine a center stone….round, marquis, pear, or princess shaped… flanked by a row of tasteful channel diamonds on either side. For additional dazzle, one may even choose to select a double row of diamonds; as well as make a selection of a matching full or semi-channeled diamond wedding band.

The diamonds selected can be of almost any cut, but are usually chosen, based on achieving a specifically desired effect or spark. Round diamonds are always an attractive choice for either the undecided, or for those who prefer the more traditional route. Princess cut diamonds in a channel setting are especially beautiful, and add a touch of uniqueness to just about any engagement ring or wedding ring. Take a leisurely look. With so many to choose from, there is sure to be a channel that is just right for you.

Channel diamonds? What else to think about when buying a diamond?

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.

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.

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.

Have you ever thought about purchasing insurance for your ring?  If you have insurance for your home and car, wouldn’t it stand to reason to also have insurance for your jewelry or your diamonds?  I’m sure you value your jewelry as much as you value your home or car, if not more, but buying insurance for a ring is not necessarily an easy decision for everyone.  Many factors need to be weighed.

There are two main ring insurance policies: a floater insurance policy and a standalone policy.  In a floater policy, if something happens to your ring, you either get the value of your ring back in money or you are given a brand new ring.  Most companies will attempt to get a similar ring because they can almost always find ones for less.  A standalone policy has a very important difference.  In a standalone policy, a jewelry appraiser will have to appraise the value of the ring, and they might not think it’s worth as much as you think it is.   As you might imagine, this can lead to many conflicts.

You could of course choose not to insure your ring.  This is a gamble, but it obviously is the least expensive option, and if you plan on taking extremely good care of your ring, then it may be the best one for you.   In reality, the odds of something happening to your ring are actually extremely low. Chances are you will not lose it.  Why?  Because most people do not misplace objects that they cherish.  The odds of a ring slipping down a drain are extremely low.  This tends to happen quite often in movies, but in the real world, most people don’t let their ring slip off their finger and into a drain.  The odds of your ring being stolen are also extremely low.  The vast majority of people never experience a home robbery in their lives.

A number of people lose their ring when they go swimming in a pool or in the ocean.   However, this can be prevented easily.  Simply remove your ring before you go in the water.   Sometimes people lose their ring on a roller coaster.  It might slip off as the coaster goes through a twist or turns upside down.  This too can be prevented easily.  Simply don’t take your ring to an amusement park. Another way people damage their ring is with chemicals. It is always best to remove your rings and all jewelry if you believe you are going to be around chemicals or paint.  It is best to not attempt to paint your home with a ring on your finger.  You’ll just be asking for it to get damaged.   So if you believe in finding a practical solution to the question of whether or not you should insure your ring, you may find that the most practical solution is to not get the ring insured at all.  But if you want to remain on the safe side, then by all means, purchase ring insurance.

With our busy lifestyles and our daily activities our diamonds get smudged and soiled.  Even when we are not wearing them, they collect dust.  Lotions, soaps, our natural skin oils, can cause film and grime on diamonds and inhibit their brilliance.

Want to keep that Brilliance and Shine?   Diamonds require cleaning so that maximum amounts of light can refract fiery brilliance.  Remember that all it takes is a few minutes and a little care to keep that diamond as fiery as the day you first saw it.

You can use an small soft brush such as an eyebrow or lip stick brush and soap and water to clean your jewelry.  Simply make a bowl of warm sudsy water with a mild detergent and place your pieces in the mixture.  Then brush the diamonds with the soft bristles of the brush while they are in the suds.  You will need to make certain that you rinse them clear of the suds after cleaning them.  You can use a small kitchen
strainer such as a tea strainer to contain them while rinsing under warm water.  Use a lint free cloth, or a jewelry polish cloth to pat them dry.

If your diamonds are in need of a stronger cleansing, you may want to soak them for 30 minutes in a solution of half and half water and ammonia.  Once they have soaked for 30  minutes, remove them and gently brush the mountings with a small brush.  Then replace the pieces to the solution and swish them around in the mixture before removing them to rinse and pat dry.

If you find your self too busy to be mixing soaps and ammonias, many department stores sell liquid jewelry cleaners.  Most are kits, with everything you need included.  You need to read the labels to determine the one that is right for your diamonds and other jewelry. Read the complete directions and follow all the precautions.

And if you find yourself more the “high-tech type”, even in your diamond cleaning routine, there are multiple ultrasonic cleansers on the market.  These machines use high-frequency to create a cleaning motion.  All machines are not the same, so please read the instructions before using.

Only you can choose the cleaning method right for you.   But, it is essential to keep your jewelry clean to keep it brilliant and sparkling.  Between cleaning, try not to touch your clean diamonds with your fingers or handle your jewelry by its edges. This will help maintain its shine and brilliance for longer periods.