Don't Buy A Diamond before You Read This : Fake or Real ???

Is this diamond fake or real?
A simple test

Here is a simply little test anyone can perform to help determine if what they are looking at is a real diamond or a CZ.

First, take a blank piece of paper and make a dot on it with a pen:

Next, take the stone in question and turn it upside down on the paper. We will be positioning the diamond, table down and centered on the dot.

When you center the gemstone on the dot...

In a CZ you will see a circular reflection of that dot clearly through the pavilion. The stone on the left is the CZ. The stone on the right is a real diamond. A diamond will break up that reflection to the point where it is almost imperceptible. In a CZ it will be very easy to see.

There are other ways of making the distinctions between fakes and real but this is an easy simple test that anyone can perform.

What if the diamond is mounted?

Unless you have special equipment, determining whether a mounted diamond is real or not is much harder than a loose one. However, there are a few things you can do to help 'ease your mind' - though they are NOT as accurate as the paper test.

1. Scratching/scuffing. As we all know diamonds are really quite hard, while CZ really isn't. If you're looking at a ring and can get a loupe or magnifiying glass, have a good look at the facets of the stone (tilt it so that the reflection is completely on the surface). CZs of any age will almost definitely show light scratching and scuffing, whereas diamonds are very unlikely to do so.
2. Sharp edges. Since it's possible to cut a diamond much more 'finely' than a CZ, the edges between the facets will always be very sharp on a diamond. Obviously, experience is rather helpful here because otherwise you don't know what you should be comparing to, but if you have a chance to look at both together you can clearly see differences.

The photo below shows a stone that's been around a bit. In this photo you can easily make out scuffs/abrasions at the facet junctions as well as scratches on the table.

Here is a CZ alongside an AGS ideal cut to demonstrate the differences. Also, notice that CZ's are generally cut pretty sloppy when it comes to symmetry characteristics.

Other tests

Weight. If you have a precision scale, another great test for an unmounted CZ/diamond is weight. A CZ of the same size as a diamond will weigh nearly twice as the diamond. Remember, a 1.0ct (real) diamond weighs 200 milligrams.

Gizmos. The easiest way to reliably test is to use a diamond tester. The typical tester measures thermal and electrical conductivity. The more advance testers also measure reflectivity, and the top-of-the-line testers check both.

Myths: The NON-tests

The following so-called "tests" are not accurate ways to tell fake from real diamonds:

• It scratches glass! CZ scratches glass. Also, think twice whether you really want to submit your expensive, rare gemstone to that kind of treatment.
• It glows under UV light. Some diamonds fluoresce, and some do not. Likewise, fake gemstones can be doped or treated in such a way that they will glow under UV light.

The best way: Ask your friendly neighborhood jeweler

Take a trip to your friendly neighborhood jeweler (preferably a real jeweler and not a chain at the mall) with the gemstone in question. Most jewelers walk around with a diamond tester and a loupe in their pocket, and will gladly check your gemstone without charging you.

Do you want to start choosing your jewelry ?don't be shame...click the ring,please!

Is this diamond fake or real?
A simple test

Here is a simply little test anyone can perform to help determine if what they are looking at is a real diamond or a CZ.

First, take a blank piece of paper and make a dot on it with a pen:

Next, take the stone in question and turn it upside down on the paper. We will be positioning the diamond, table down and centered on the dot.

When you center the gemstone on the dot...

In a CZ you will see a circular reflection of that dot clearly through the pavilion. The stone on the left is the CZ. The stone on the right is a real diamond. A diamond will break up that reflection to the point where it is almost imperceptible. In a CZ it will be very easy to see.

There are other ways of making the distinctions between fakes and real but this is an easy simple test that anyone can perform.

What if the diamond is mounted?

Unless you have special equipment, determining whether a mounted diamond is real or not is much harder than a loose one. However, there are a few things you can do to help 'ease your mind' - though they are NOT as accurate as the paper test.

1. Scratching/scuffing. As we all know diamonds are really quite hard, while CZ really isn't. If you're looking at a ring and can get a loupe or magnifiying glass, have a good look at the facets of the stone (tilt it so that the reflection is completely on the surface). CZs of any age will almost definitely show light scratching and scuffing, whereas diamonds are very unlikely to do so.
2. Sharp edges. Since it's possible to cut a diamond much more 'finely' than a CZ, the edges between the facets will always be very sharp on a diamond. Obviously, experience is rather helpful here because otherwise you don't know what you should be comparing to, but if you have a chance to look at both together you can clearly see differences.

The photo below shows a stone that's been around a bit. In this photo you can easily make out scuffs/abrasions at the facet junctions as well as scratches on the table.

Here is a CZ alongside an AGS ideal cut to demonstrate the differences. Also, notice that CZ's are generally cut pretty sloppy when it comes to symmetry characteristics.

Other tests

Weight. If you have a precision scale, another great test for an unmounted CZ/diamond is weight. A CZ of the same size as a diamond will weigh nearly twice as the diamond. Remember, a 1.0ct (real) diamond weighs 200 milligrams.

Gizmos. The easiest way to reliably test is to use a diamond tester. The typical tester measures thermal and electrical conductivity. The more advance testers also measure reflectivity, and the top-of-the-line testers check both.

Myths: The NON-tests

The following so-called "tests" are not accurate ways to tell fake from real diamonds:

• It scratches glass! CZ scratches glass. Also, think twice whether you really want to submit your expensive, rare gemstone to that kind of treatment.
• It glows under UV light. Some diamonds fluoresce, and some do not. Likewise, fake gemstones can be doped or treated in such a way that they will glow under UV light.

The best way: Ask your friendly neighborhood jeweler

Take a trip to your friendly neighborhood jeweler (preferably a real jeweler and not a chain at the mall) with the gemstone in question. Most jewelers walk around with a diamond tester and a loupe in their pocket, and will gladly check your gemstone without charging you.

Do you want to start choosing your jewelry ?don't be shame...click the ring,please!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Tips on Sizing a Ring

This is where it gets a little tricky! If the ring is for you, you can have your finger measured at any local department store that sells jewelry. If you are buying it for your loved one, then you may want to use one of these suggestions:

• Make an Impression - If she's in the habit of leaving any of her rings lying about, make an impression of one. A bar of soap, a piece of clay or even a piece of bread can be used to take a reliable measurement.
• Trace the inside - You could even trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper, which can be used to determine an accurate measurement. As long as you can get the diameter, we can convert that to a finger size... or at least close!
• Try it on for Size - Simpler still, just put one of her rings on your own fingers. Push it down as far as it will go and then mark the spot with a pen, or try to remember how far down it went. Then quickly go get that part of your finger sized!
• Talk to her friends - A friend of your loved one can be of great assistance in this particular endeavor. It's not uncommon for one friend to ask another for their ring size as a matter of curiosity. But remember to pick the "secret-keeping" friend.

Keep in mind that ring sizing is an imperfect science. Fingers tend to swell up during summer days or during vigorous activity, making a perfectly fitted ring feel too tight. Take note of when you take the measurement, and adjust accordingly if necessary.

This is where it gets a little tricky! If the ring is for you, you can have your finger measured at any local department store that sells jewelry. If you are buying it for your loved one, then you may want to use one of these suggestions:

• Make an Impression - If she's in the habit of leaving any of her rings lying about, make an impression of one. A bar of soap, a piece of clay or even a piece of bread can be used to take a reliable measurement.
• Trace the inside - You could even trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper, which can be used to determine an accurate measurement. As long as you can get the diameter, we can convert that to a finger size... or at least close!
• Try it on for Size - Simpler still, just put one of her rings on your own fingers. Push it down as far as it will go and then mark the spot with a pen, or try to remember how far down it went. Then quickly go get that part of your finger sized!
• Talk to her friends - A friend of your loved one can be of great assistance in this particular endeavor. It's not uncommon for one friend to ask another for their ring size as a matter of curiosity. But remember to pick the "secret-keeping" friend.

Keep in mind that ring sizing is an imperfect science. Fingers tend to swell up during summer days or during vigorous activity, making a perfectly fitted ring feel too tight. Take note of when you take the measurement, and adjust accordingly if necessary.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Selecting a ring "on the sly"?

If you are purchasing the ring for your partner unbeknownst to said partner, you will have to do a bit of sleuthing. First you will need to find out if your partner wears any other jewelry, and if so, what kind of style does the jewelry appear to fall into-- does it look antique or antique reproduction? Is it primarily gold or silver? Or a bit of both? Modern? Does she or he buy jewelry from museum catalogs (The Metrapolitan Museum of Art, for example)? If so, you'll want to find a jeweler whose pieces have the same antique feel, like Mallory Marks who makes magical, delicate pieces that might as well have been worn by Marie Antoinette or Catherine de Medici-- these can be found at Barneys New York (http://www.barneys.com) among other places. Henri Ramon Designs also plays around with the idea of the magical antique, often marrying different metals with luminous stones. A recent Henri Ramon ring consisted of a platinum band with a rectangular faceted Tanzanite stone (more purple than sapphire but just as precious) held in a gold cage composed of two miniature and indescribably delicate angels clasping each other's wings.

Does your partner hardly wear any jewelry at all? If so you'll want to go with something incredibly simple and elegant-- a small stone in an even smaller setting, in a color of metal that you think would go with the clothes your partner wears. Masters of simple, unelaborate settings include the jewelry artist Dale Novick, but you can easily find a simple design by conferring with any designer. Does your partner like to dress extravagantly in rich silks and velvets, sparkling from head to toe? A pave diamond ring may be just the thing, from Codiam Inc. a firm that specializes in modern pave settings, or from an antique dealer that specializes in late nineteenth century, early 20th century antique jewelry. If your partner's personal dressing and jewelry style is considerably more modern, and always follows the sharpest, latest trend then you might want to choose something that mixes platinum with gold, such as a design from Henry Designs New York, or a pure platinum from L. Pavorsky of Philadelphia.

If you still can't figure out ot decide what setting will complement your partner's dressing style, here is one more place to look: decorating! How does your partner decorate her or his room/house/apartment? With thoroughly modern, sleek, minimalist furniture and Japanese vases? (go with something minimalist and simple-- platinum, or else something inspired by nature like the work of Laura Cardillo, or Russell Trusso). With a funky "shabby chic" mix of flea market "finds", European prints and vintage appliances? (Try something modeled after an Art Deco design with square or rectangular cut diamonds, or another funky vintage-like design, diamonds set in Bakelite or resin, for instance!) With a perfect Laura Ashley country-house mix of chintz and refurbished antiques? Best to go with something classic that looks both 20th century and timeless. If your partner's house is draped with magical fabrics, constantly lit with baroque candlesticks and dripping with rose petals (in other words, the setting for a romance novel or a fairy tale) then try something imaginative and elaborate, full of Art Nouveau style swirls and curlicues, in the style of LaLique, or from the still up and running Masriera collection. With artifacts from around the world, Eastern European rugs and kilims, Indian spice boxes and lots of orchids? Try a culturally inspired design that mimics pieces found in museums, like the ancient Greek and Byzantine style of the work of Maua Neimanis, which often involves "granulation", or tiny spherical beads of precious metal placed closely together to form a repeated patterned design. Granulation is done completely by hand, so these pieces can be costly, but always receive compliments on their unique, historically informed design.

No matter what you do, buying "on the sly" always carries its risks. Be sure you understand your jeweler's return policy, in case you happen to misread your partner's preferred style.

If you are purchasing the ring for your partner unbeknownst to said partner, you will have to do a bit of sleuthing. First you will need to find out if your partner wears any other jewelry, and if so, what kind of style does the jewelry appear to fall into-- does it look antique or antique reproduction? Is it primarily gold or silver? Or a bit of both? Modern? Does she or he buy jewelry from museum catalogs (The Metrapolitan Museum of Art, for example)? If so, you'll want to find a jeweler whose pieces have the same antique feel, like Mallory Marks who makes magical, delicate pieces that might as well have been worn by Marie Antoinette or Catherine de Medici-- these can be found at Barneys New York (http://www.barneys.com) among other places. Henri Ramon Designs also plays around with the idea of the magical antique, often marrying different metals with luminous stones. A recent Henri Ramon ring consisted of a platinum band with a rectangular faceted Tanzanite stone (more purple than sapphire but just as precious) held in a gold cage composed of two miniature and indescribably delicate angels clasping each other's wings.

Does your partner hardly wear any jewelry at all? If so you'll want to go with something incredibly simple and elegant-- a small stone in an even smaller setting, in a color of metal that you think would go with the clothes your partner wears. Masters of simple, unelaborate settings include the jewelry artist Dale Novick, but you can easily find a simple design by conferring with any designer. Does your partner like to dress extravagantly in rich silks and velvets, sparkling from head to toe? A pave diamond ring may be just the thing, from Codiam Inc. a firm that specializes in modern pave settings, or from an antique dealer that specializes in late nineteenth century, early 20th century antique jewelry. If your partner's personal dressing and jewelry style is considerably more modern, and always follows the sharpest, latest trend then you might want to choose something that mixes platinum with gold, such as a design from Henry Designs New York, or a pure platinum from L. Pavorsky of Philadelphia.

If you still can't figure out ot decide what setting will complement your partner's dressing style, here is one more place to look: decorating! How does your partner decorate her or his room/house/apartment? With thoroughly modern, sleek, minimalist furniture and Japanese vases? (go with something minimalist and simple-- platinum, or else something inspired by nature like the work of Laura Cardillo, or Russell Trusso). With a funky "shabby chic" mix of flea market "finds", European prints and vintage appliances? (Try something modeled after an Art Deco design with square or rectangular cut diamonds, or another funky vintage-like design, diamonds set in Bakelite or resin, for instance!) With a perfect Laura Ashley country-house mix of chintz and refurbished antiques? Best to go with something classic that looks both 20th century and timeless. If your partner's house is draped with magical fabrics, constantly lit with baroque candlesticks and dripping with rose petals (in other words, the setting for a romance novel or a fairy tale) then try something imaginative and elaborate, full of Art Nouveau style swirls and curlicues, in the style of LaLique, or from the still up and running Masriera collection. With artifacts from around the world, Eastern European rugs and kilims, Indian spice boxes and lots of orchids? Try a culturally inspired design that mimics pieces found in museums, like the ancient Greek and Byzantine style of the work of Maua Neimanis, which often involves "granulation", or tiny spherical beads of precious metal placed closely together to form a repeated patterned design. Granulation is done completely by hand, so these pieces can be costly, but always receive compliments on their unique, historically informed design.

No matter what you do, buying "on the sly" always carries its risks. Be sure you understand your jeweler's return policy, in case you happen to misread your partner's preferred style.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Choosing a Style

please...don't be shame...click a picture !

Matching a Ring to a Hand

There are as many innovative, magical and contemporary settings out there as there are traditional, ageless classics for diamonds. Indeed, if you cannot find a setting that you like but have an idea in your head, you can simply find a jewelry artist or design group and collaborate on the design yourself, though with the enormous amount of available settings this often seems hardly necessary.

Most obviously, you should choose your setting first and foremost depending on the personal taste of whoever is to wear it. If you are buying the diamond for yourself, the best thing to do is to thumb through a few jewelry magazines, looking at the advertisements to find what you most like. If you and your partner are in on this purchase and selection together then the two of you can consult.

First, here are a few tips on which styles complement which fingers and hand types. Keep in mind this is entirely subjective, and just an amalgamation of opinions.

Fastidious Fingers

Sometimes even oneself is not the best judge of what looks good on one's fingers. In general if you have long, bony fingers, and/or muscular hands, a larger, thicker ring with a more prominent stone or stones flatters your hand. If you have large hands and long fingers, you are probably the only type of person who can look good in a large pronged setting, in which the diamond sticks out from the ring. You are terribly lucky, because these kinds of rings are often the simplest style and really do show off the stone over and above the setting. You are also unlucky should you get stuck with a ring like this and not be able to wear it because it does not fit your lifestyle. For instance, if you do a lot of work with your hands, a pronged setting can be a setback-- the stone will snag on your clothes and scratch your desk. Whether the setting is classic 20th century (think something a President's wife or the late great Princess Di might wear-- modern but not postmodern!), minimalist modern, or antique is up to your own sense of taste, so long as the setting is thick and the ring large.

If you have rather wide and short fingers, a medium sized ring with a large stone can look gorgeous, so long as it remains flat against your hand (try to stay away from pronged settings, in which the diamond seems to jump out from the ring). Again, the style is up to you-- what goes with your casual and evening clothes.

If you have small fingers that are thin and delicate, thin and delicate settings complement your hands quite nicely. And those with short fingers should stick to small stones. Again, the choice of style-- antique reproduction ("repro"), modern, or classic-- is up to you, but you should try to keep it simple so that the ring does not swallow your hand. For example, classic 20th century (President's wife) styles would not look good on small hands, because such styles tend to swallow up the finger.

please...don't be shame...click a picture !

Matching a Ring to a Hand

There are as many innovative, magical and contemporary settings out there as there are traditional, ageless classics for diamonds. Indeed, if you cannot find a setting that you like but have an idea in your head, you can simply find a jewelry artist or design group and collaborate on the design yourself, though with the enormous amount of available settings this often seems hardly necessary.

Most obviously, you should choose your setting first and foremost depending on the personal taste of whoever is to wear it. If you are buying the diamond for yourself, the best thing to do is to thumb through a few jewelry magazines, looking at the advertisements to find what you most like. If you and your partner are in on this purchase and selection together then the two of you can consult.

First, here are a few tips on which styles complement which fingers and hand types. Keep in mind this is entirely subjective, and just an amalgamation of opinions.

Fastidious Fingers

Sometimes even oneself is not the best judge of what looks good on one's fingers. In general if you have long, bony fingers, and/or muscular hands, a larger, thicker ring with a more prominent stone or stones flatters your hand. If you have large hands and long fingers, you are probably the only type of person who can look good in a large pronged setting, in which the diamond sticks out from the ring. You are terribly lucky, because these kinds of rings are often the simplest style and really do show off the stone over and above the setting. You are also unlucky should you get stuck with a ring like this and not be able to wear it because it does not fit your lifestyle. For instance, if you do a lot of work with your hands, a pronged setting can be a setback-- the stone will snag on your clothes and scratch your desk. Whether the setting is classic 20th century (think something a President's wife or the late great Princess Di might wear-- modern but not postmodern!), minimalist modern, or antique is up to your own sense of taste, so long as the setting is thick and the ring large.

If you have rather wide and short fingers, a medium sized ring with a large stone can look gorgeous, so long as it remains flat against your hand (try to stay away from pronged settings, in which the diamond seems to jump out from the ring). Again, the style is up to you-- what goes with your casual and evening clothes.

If you have small fingers that are thin and delicate, thin and delicate settings complement your hands quite nicely. And those with short fingers should stick to small stones. Again, the choice of style-- antique reproduction ("repro"), modern, or classic-- is up to you, but you should try to keep it simple so that the ring does not swallow your hand. For example, classic 20th century (President's wife) styles would not look good on small hands, because such styles tend to swallow up the finger.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Choosing a Setting

(just click a picture)

The setting is the part of the ring that actually holds the diamond. Settings are usually made out of platinum (even on a gold ring) because of platinum's strength and durability. The most popular way to set a diamond that is to be used in an engagement ring is to set it into Prongs or "Claws". However, there are a variety of ways that the side stones can be set. Here are the most popular ways of setting a diamond:

    Prong Set - This is the recommended way to set an engagement ring diamond for a variety of reasons. The setting consists of four or six prongs that cradle the diamond, so it allows the maximum amount of light to enter a stone from all angles. This often helps the diamond look more brilliant and even appear larger. Some of the fancier shapes diamonds like the Heart or the Pear will have settings that consist of five prongs.
    Bezel Set - With a Bezel setting, a rim of metal holds the girdle of the diamond and completely surrounds it. Bezels can have straight edges, scalloped edges, or can be molded into any shape to accommodate the stone. The backs can be opened or closed. This is also a common way to set diamonds into earrings, necklaces and bracelets. It is also a popular setting for active adults that want their diamond to sit low on their hand.
    Channel Set - This setting style is most frequently used for wedding and anniversary bands. A Channel setting will set the stones right next to each other with no metal separating them. The outer ridge of metal is then worked over the edges of the stones. This protects the girdle of the diamonds and provides a smooth exterior surface.
    Invisible Set - Invisible setting is a relatively new concept. Calibrated stones (mostly Princess Cut) with slits are placed into a frame with ridges to hold them in place. No metal appears between any stones.
    Pav  Set - The word actually comes from the French word meaning "to pave" because of its paved appearance. The round stones are patterned very closely together and the only metal visible is what is actually used to hold the stones in place. You will often hear the term "Bead Set" in regard to this style.

(just click a picture)

The setting is the part of the ring that actually holds the diamond. Settings are usually made out of platinum (even on a gold ring) because of platinum's strength and durability. The most popular way to set a diamond that is to be used in an engagement ring is to set it into Prongs or "Claws". However, there are a variety of ways that the side stones can be set. Here are the most popular ways of setting a diamond:

    Prong Set - This is the recommended way to set an engagement ring diamond for a variety of reasons. The setting consists of four or six prongs that cradle the diamond, so it allows the maximum amount of light to enter a stone from all angles. This often helps the diamond look more brilliant and even appear larger. Some of the fancier shapes diamonds like the Heart or the Pear will have settings that consist of five prongs.
    Bezel Set - With a Bezel setting, a rim of metal holds the girdle of the diamond and completely surrounds it. Bezels can have straight edges, scalloped edges, or can be molded into any shape to accommodate the stone. The backs can be opened or closed. This is also a common way to set diamonds into earrings, necklaces and bracelets. It is also a popular setting for active adults that want their diamond to sit low on their hand.
    Channel Set - This setting style is most frequently used for wedding and anniversary bands. A Channel setting will set the stones right next to each other with no metal separating them. The outer ridge of metal is then worked over the edges of the stones. This protects the girdle of the diamonds and provides a smooth exterior surface.
    Invisible Set - Invisible setting is a relatively new concept. Calibrated stones (mostly Princess Cut) with slits are placed into a frame with ridges to hold them in place. No metal appears between any stones.
    Pav  Set - The word actually comes from the French word meaning "to pave" because of its paved appearance. The round stones are patterned very closely together and the only metal visible is what is actually used to hold the stones in place. You will often hear the term "Bead Set" in regard to this style.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Choosing a Material for Jewelrys

The most popular rings today are made from Gold or Platinum. Both gold and platinum are durable, sturdy and dependable metals. Either would make an ideal setting for your precious diamond jewelry. Pick the metal that best compliments your diamond and your personal style.

Gold

Gold in its purest form is a soft and pliable metal. The malleability, ductility, and softness of pure gold make it virtually useless for wearable jewelry. Jewelry made of pure gold would easily bend and distort in the course of normal wear. To solve this, jewelers began to use an alloyed form known as karat gold. Alloying increases gold's hardness and provides a variety of colors. White gold contains anywhere between 10 and 20 % nickel, plus zinc, copper, platinum, and palladium. These alloys make white gold a harder metal than yellow gold.

Gold content is specified by the codes 10K, 14K, 18K, etc. The "K" number specifies how many parts, by weight, of pure gold is contained in 24 parts of the alloy. For example:

10k = 10/24 = 41.67% pure gold

14k = 14/24 = 58.33% pure gold

18k = 18/24 = 75.00% pure gold

24k means 100% pure (or fine) gold. Gold itself is impervious to tarnishing and requires strong chemicals for it to dissolve.

When worn daily, gold will tend to dull. Brightening it again is as simple as soaking the ring in warm water and detergent-free soap, and scrubbing it gently with a soft-bristled brush.

Platinum

Platinum is regarded as the preeminent metal for fine jewelry. It is more rare and more expensive than gold. It is generally 95% pure and one of the only metals that is hypoallergenic (ideal for those with sensitive skin). It is a strong, dense metal and is just about twice the weight of gold. This weight is one of platinum's strongest selling points. In addition to its strength and density, platinum has another remarkable quality - pliability. Just one gram of the metal can be drawn to produce a fine wire over one mile (almost 2 km) long. This quality has enabled jewelers to create beautifully unique engagement rings. Platinum has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, becoming the new choice for all types of jewelry.

When worn often, platinum does have the tendency to scratch, and once scratched, the only way to polish it is to take it to a jeweler who will usually charge you a small fee to cover the labor involved in re-polishing.

Primary production of Platinum in the United States is confined to the Stillwater Mine, which is located west of Nye, Montana.

Platinum in jewelry is actually an alloyed group of six heavy metals, including platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium. These other metals are so similar to platinum in weight and chemistry that most were not even distinguished from each other until early in the nineteenth century. Today it is often alloyed with copper and titanium. Platinum jewelry is marked 900Pt, 950 Plat, or Plat.

Want to buy now ?.....

The most popular rings today are made from Gold or Platinum. Both gold and platinum are durable, sturdy and dependable metals. Either would make an ideal setting for your precious diamond jewelry. Pick the metal that best compliments your diamond and your personal style.

Gold

Gold in its purest form is a soft and pliable metal. The malleability, ductility, and softness of pure gold make it virtually useless for wearable jewelry. Jewelry made of pure gold would easily bend and distort in the course of normal wear. To solve this, jewelers began to use an alloyed form known as karat gold. Alloying increases gold's hardness and provides a variety of colors. White gold contains anywhere between 10 and 20 % nickel, plus zinc, copper, platinum, and palladium. These alloys make white gold a harder metal than yellow gold.

Gold content is specified by the codes 10K, 14K, 18K, etc. The "K" number specifies how many parts, by weight, of pure gold is contained in 24 parts of the alloy. For example:

10k = 10/24 = 41.67% pure gold

14k = 14/24 = 58.33% pure gold

18k = 18/24 = 75.00% pure gold

24k means 100% pure (or fine) gold. Gold itself is impervious to tarnishing and requires strong chemicals for it to dissolve.

When worn daily, gold will tend to dull. Brightening it again is as simple as soaking the ring in warm water and detergent-free soap, and scrubbing it gently with a soft-bristled brush.

Platinum

Platinum is regarded as the preeminent metal for fine jewelry. It is more rare and more expensive than gold. It is generally 95% pure and one of the only metals that is hypoallergenic (ideal for those with sensitive skin). It is a strong, dense metal and is just about twice the weight of gold. This weight is one of platinum's strongest selling points. In addition to its strength and density, platinum has another remarkable quality - pliability. Just one gram of the metal can be drawn to produce a fine wire over one mile (almost 2 km) long. This quality has enabled jewelers to create beautifully unique engagement rings. Platinum has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, becoming the new choice for all types of jewelry.

When worn often, platinum does have the tendency to scratch, and once scratched, the only way to polish it is to take it to a jeweler who will usually charge you a small fee to cover the labor involved in re-polishing.

Primary production of Platinum in the United States is confined to the Stillwater Mine, which is located west of Nye, Montana.

Platinum in jewelry is actually an alloyed group of six heavy metals, including platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium. These other metals are so similar to platinum in weight and chemistry that most were not even distinguished from each other until early in the nineteenth century. Today it is often alloyed with copper and titanium. Platinum jewelry is marked 900Pt, 950 Plat, or Plat.

Want to buy now ?.....

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Knowing Your Jewelry

Whether you are buying a diamond to give to your special someone as a symbol of your love and devotion, or simply buying one for yourself because you work hard and you deserve it, the best diamond needs a perfect setting.

Back in the 1870's, when loose diamonds were first becoming available to the public, setting styles were limited and often did not display the diamond in the most appropriate manner in terms of brilliance and beauty. Diamonds were left to look dull and dark due to a lack of light entry. Fortunately today, there is a wide variety styles available to suit every personality, every personal preference, and most importantly, every shape of diamond that you are looking to accent.

Finding the right engagement ring is mostly a matter of personal style. A simple ring with a single stone is called a solitaire and can make for a beautiful engagement ring. If you prefer more decoration, there are a wide variety of rings with side stones or baguettes that will add to the total price of the ring but also make it more unique.

Generally speaking, choosing a ring involves making four choices:

    * the material for the ring,
    * the type of setting for the diamond(s),
    * the style of ring,
    * the size

The next pages of the Advanced Ring Guide will go into each choice in detail.

Click this banner to buy your jewelry needs!

Whether you are buying a diamond to give to your special someone as a symbol of your love and devotion, or simply buying one for yourself because you work hard and you deserve it, the best diamond needs a perfect setting.

Back in the 1870's, when loose diamonds were first becoming available to the public, setting styles were limited and often did not display the diamond in the most appropriate manner in terms of brilliance and beauty. Diamonds were left to look dull and dark due to a lack of light entry. Fortunately today, there is a wide variety styles available to suit every personality, every personal preference, and most importantly, every shape of diamond that you are looking to accent.

Finding the right engagement ring is mostly a matter of personal style. A simple ring with a single stone is called a solitaire and can make for a beautiful engagement ring. If you prefer more decoration, there are a wide variety of rings with side stones or baguettes that will add to the total price of the ring but also make it more unique.

Generally speaking, choosing a ring involves making four choices:

    * the material for the ring,
    * the type of setting for the diamond(s),
    * the style of ring,
    * the size

The next pages of the Advanced Ring Guide will go into each choice in detail.

Click this banner to buy your jewelry needs!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad