Well it is the end of the year and one that had seen some major changes in the economy. Spending patterns have changed to keep in tune with the changing economy. Consumers now more than any other time before need to become more knowledgeable shoppers. Unfortunately most may not know where to start.  Here are some questions most frequently asked about diamonds and jewelry to give you a starting place.

What is the most important C in the 4 C’s of a diamond?
We feel that the Cut is the most important because it determines how much brilliance and sparkle the diamond would display. It really determines the true beauty of a diamond. If a diamond is poorly cut with proportions that are too deep or shallow the diamond will not have much brilliance or sparkle. An ideal cut diamond will have maximum brilliance and sparkle and it will not matter what the color, clarity or carat weight it may be. I will look exceptionally beautiful. The following diagram defines how light returns to make the diamonds brilliant or leaks to make it appear dull. If you have ever seen an ideal cut diamond next to a poorly cut one there is no doubt what you will choose.


Are certificates necessary when purchasing a diamond?
We would say yes it is important for peace of mind. You should also understand that not all certificates are graded by the same standards. The problem is that the same system is used to describe the grades. On paper the grading may be the same but some certificates can be off by as much as six grades. Why does this matter? It matters because the value of a diamond is based on the accuracy of the grading for color, clarity, carat weigh and cut. Each of the 4C’s defines a specific part of its value together it will define its actual value. We would recommend diamond grading reports by AGS and GIA as two of the most accurate and consistent laboratories that grade diamonds.


What is the best setting style to mount your diamond?
Now this is a really a personal aesthetic choice. Know that there are different styles for different folks. At present the old-fashioned retro look is in. White metal is in. There are simple styles, intricate styles, modern styles, classic styles and styles that have not been created yet. Look around, try some on, you will find the style that appeals to you.


What kind of metal is best to use for jewelry?
The traditional precious metals used for jewelry are gold, silver and platinum. Silver is the least valuable and generally not used as mountings for diamonds. Palladium which in the past saw limited use is now seen more often. White metals are presently in vogue. All of these metals have their own characteristics, advantages and weaknesses. White gold is a popular metal. It polishes well and is hard enough to be durable against scratches. It does have a tinge of yellow which is its weakness. Gold is yellow and to make it whiter in color white metals such as nickel, platinum and palladium are used. Eighteen karat gold is 75% gold the rest are alloys, while 14k is 58% gold the rest at the white alloys. The more white metal use the whiter the gold will be but it still retains a tinge of yellow, Rhodium which is a white metal in the platinum family is used as plating over white gold to make it whiter looking but as plating it will wear off and reveal its original color. Plating has to be done periodically to insure retaining the white look. Platinum is a white metal which is its appeal. It is softer than most metals used for jewelry which makes it prone to becoming dull faster. It is also the heaviest and the most costly which may be its weakness. Palladium is a cross between platinum and white gold. It is in the platinum family and is about as white as platinum, it is a bit harder which makes it more scratch resistant, it is not as heavy and does not cost as much as platinum. It is a bit harder to work with than gold and as jewelry will cost about the same as 14k gold. The choice is still a personal preference and you can find jewelry made in metals and styles that fit you personality.


Are four prongs or six prongs better?
Six prongs are more secure than four prongs. If one of the prongs on a four prong head breaks or is pulled off the diamond there is a high probability that it will fall out of the setting. It actually depends on the thickness of the prongs, the kind of metal and the activeness of the wearer. Some people really like the aesthetic look of four prongs. If the head is made in platinum and is made thick enough there may be more than security for your diamond. Six prongs is more secure because you need to break three prongs on the same side before your diamond falls out. With six prongs you several second chances. In either case with four or six prongs it is best to have it professionally inspected periodically to insure that is good condition and secure.

These are just a few questions that people ask about jewelry and diamonds. There are as many questions as there are types of jewelry and people. Please feel free to ask any pertinent questions that is important to you and we will try to help you. You may develop more appreciation for your jewelry by getting the answers to your questions.

Well it is the season and we wish you a very happy holiday and a great New Year!

Mahalo,
Russell Oshita
The Diamond Specialists Inc.
Our website: www.thediamondspecialistsinc.com
Email me: russell@thediamondspecialists.com
Email me:inquiries@thediamondspecialists.com
Our romantic love story blog: www.SweetMomentsRomance.com
Our jewelry information and advice blog: www.Jewelry411Help.com

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