Want To Know If Your Diamond Is Fake Or Not?

Want To Know If Your Diamond Is Fake Or Not?

Diamondite

Want to know if he really loves you or not?

Envision a scene of such bliss you cannot imagine it ending any way but how you have planned. You invite your girlfriend to the perfect restaurant. As it happens, it's the restaurant where you had your first date. You ask her to wear the same outfit she wore that time. You wear the same outfit you wore, too, at least if it still fits. You order the same food. You drink the same wine. And while your girlfriend begins to suspect all this planning must be leading to something, you go down on one knee, take out the little black box that will make her heart stop, and you open it to reveal an engagement ring.

“Will you marry me?”

She can't conceal her joy at being asked, but as she whips out the Diamondite, it's apparent she also can't conceal her suspicion that despite your profession of love... you're really just a cheapskate that won't pay for a real diamond.

What is this gadget that has undone your attempt to save a few dollars while still taking a wife? What dastardly piece of technology has prevented you from having your cake and eating it, too? Why, it's the Diamondite, a gadget women across the world will embrace.

This handy tool is a woman's own personal stone inspection kit, allowing her to analyze the rock she just accepted so she can know if it is a true diamond or just some facsimile moissanite. It lets you know what kind of stone it is by a high-pitched beep and a light on the side of the gadget, displaying if that stone is a real diamond or some cheap knock-off.

For those women that think they CAN handle the truth, you can purchase the Diamondite for only $199.95.

DIAMOND HISTORY

Diamond Formation:

Diamonds were formed under immense heat and pressure hundreds of miles below the sea level. Volcanic explosions forced them upwards after nearly 100 million years of formation. The diamonds were formed more than 70 million years ago when volcanic explosions brought this diamond bearing ore to the surface. After the cooling of the magma, it solidified into a blue mass, or kimberlite, where the precious rough diamonds are still found today. Rated 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds are the hardest substances on earth, but their appeal goes far beyond durability.

Approximately 250 tons of ore must be mined and processed in order to produce a single, one-carat, polished, gem-quality diamond. This is what makes them so valuable and unique. The first diamond mining endeavors were undertaken nearly 4000 years ago in ancient India . Modern mining started in the 19 th century in South Africa . Botswana , Russia , South Africa , Angola , Namibia , Australia and Zaire are among the top diamond producing nations, accounting for nearly 80% of the world's rough diamond supply.

Aura of Diamonds

The cultural alignment with diamonds has been there throughout the centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed diamonds were tears of the Gods and splinters from falling stars. Then, the Hindus attributed so much power to these precious stones they went so far as to place diamonds in the eyes of some of their statues .

Diamonds were thought to bring about luck and success and also change the course of astrological events. Many ancient people wore diamonds as charms believing in their ability to heighten sexual prowess and attract others. Plato even wrote about diamonds as living beings, embodying celestial spirits.

Diamond rings have been witnesses to the talismanic power of diamonds in the middle and dark ages. In the middle Ages and Renaissance period, every ring set with a precious stone was not considered so much as a piece of jewelry, but more as an amulet that conveyed magical powers like fearlessness and invincibility upon the wearer. This myth laid the groundwork for monarchs to begin wearing diamonds as symbols of power.

Diamonds today are cherished for their astonishing natural beauty and their aura of being such a special and magical gift. As of today a diamond is more than just a jewel it is the ultimate symbol of love.

DIAMOND SHAPE

DIAMOND SHAPE

• Diamonds are cut in many varied and exciting shapes. The shape of a diamond should not be confused with its cut. Shape refers to the basic form of the diamond: oval or pear shaped, for instance. Cut or proportions, on the other hand, refer to the ability of each of these shapes to reflect light.
• When it comes to shape, it is simply comes down to personal preferences. The right shape for you is really the one whose appearance you prefer. Shape can be a statement of whom you are; like other areas of fashion, shape reflects your individuality and personality.

WHAT IS A "DIAMOND CERTIFICATE"?

WHAT IS A "DIAMOND CERTIFICATE"?

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It is easy to make a mistake and purchase a Diamond of lower value, believing it to be of higher value. Thus it is of utmost importance to understand the purpose of a Certificate.
A Diamond Certificate can be defined as a statement, issued by an independent Gemological Laboratory, that at the time of evaluation, the Diamond in question has been examined by experienced Diamond Graders, using various gemological instruments, and determined to contain the characteristics as stated in the Certificate. While discussing the various elements contained in the certificate, it is important to state which gemological instruments were used to evaluate the specific diamonds under discussion. Evaluation of a diamond is important because minute, microscopic inclusions, of a Diamond can have a major influence on the price.
We cannot ascertain the value of a diamond without proper certification. GIA is the name to be considered when it comes to certification. The IGI or the International Gemological Institute is another certifying body .IGI is acclaimed to be the world's largest independent laboratory for testing and grading gemstones and fine jewelry.

Properties included in Diamond Reports:
Certificate Number:
IGI uses the terminology "Diamond Identification Report" although it is recognized as a certificate . Every lab has a certificate (or "report") number, which identifies a diamond uniquely. The Lab keeps an internal copy of everything shown on the certificate, and also additional information. The certificates can thus be re-issued when they are lost.
Shape and Cut:
Shapes can be categorized as Round, Pear, Heart, Oval, etc...Cutting Styles can be categorized as Brilliant, Marquise, Emerald, Princess, Step and Mixed.
Measurements : Measurements of the Diamond's diameter are calculated to the hundredth of a millimeter by a non-contact measuring device or a micrometer which is defined as " minimum - maximum x depth ".
Carat size:
Diamonds are weighed to the thousandth of a carat with a digital measuring device. On the Report, the weight is rounded off to the hundredth of a carat.
Proportions:
The proportions of the diamond can be the summed up as its depth, and its table .Both are expressed as percentage figures. Depth percent refers to the percentage depth of the Diamond, measured from the table to the culet, relative to the width of the stone.
The Table of a Diamond refers to its largest facet, which is the main part of the Diamond you look at when the stone is face-up. Table percent refers to the table size expressed as a percentage of the Diamond's average width. These ratios determine how well a diamond has been cut.
Girdles:
The Girdle of a Diamond is the border between the crown, or uppermost part of the stone and the pavilion, and bottom part of the stone. Girdle thickness is usually expressed as a range since it can vary from thin in one part to thick in another part of the diamond. The girdle can also be faceted. A faceted girdle usually enhances the look of the stone, and includes polished facets into the girdle. Below are example Girdle Thicknesses.
Culet:
The Culet of a Diamond is the facet on the pointed lower part of the Diamond. Its existence helps prevent chipping. Some diamonds don't have a Culet.
Finish , Polish & Symmetry:
Finish expresses the polish of a Diamond and the symmetrical , and evenness, in the placement of the facets. Polish refers to the quality of the polish given on the facets. An excellent polish shows the care and precision of the Diamond cutter. Symmetry refers to how precisely the facets are aligned to each other.
Clarity:
Clarity ranges from the best grade of IF, down through VVS¹, VVS², VS¹, VS², SI¹, SI², I¹, and I² until I³. Clarity expresses the number, size, placement and nature of inclusions and/or surface irregularities on the Diamond. The experienced Diamond Grader at IGI examines the Diamond with the aid of an IGI-Microscope, which aids in identifying the nature of inclusions, and finding pinpoints (very, very tiny crystals inside the Diamond). The actual grade is decided only on what is visible under a 10X magnifier.
Color:
Color ranges from the best grade of D, down to Z. After Z we approach the Fancy Color diamonds. Color grades are determined by comparing the diamond with a set of excellent grade stones under special lighting.
Fluorescence:
Fluorescence refers to a diamonds reaction when exposed to long wave ultraviolet radiations. Too much fluorescence can make a Diamond less desirable.
Plot:
A Plot is a graphical representation of the imperfections present in the Diamond. Every diamond has unique characteristics like fingerprints. By plotting its characteristics, and combining this with the physical measurements of a Diamond, a Lab can uniquely identify each stone. This plot is a guideline for the Grader in the event that a customer returns to the Lab and requests verification on his diamond purchase. Internal characteristics are plotted in red, and external characteristics are plotted in green.
Comments:
Comments are used to describe characteristics which are not discussed elsewhere on the certificate, or to mention the items not plotted or shown. For example, "insignificant external details are not shown" is one of the common comments.
All the keywords in the certificate details such as clarity, cut, color, carat, measurement, size etc can be searched at our bulletin board.

Difference between a Diamond certificate and an appraisal

A Diamond Certificate is a document issued by a Gemological Laboratory describing a Loose Diamond. The laboratory will not issue certificates on Diamonds which are set in a mounting. A Diamond Certificate issues a "grade" indicating the physical properties of the Diamond "at the time of evaluation". Furthermore a certificate is a document which retains its value over a long period of time, assuming the Diamond does not chip or is not otherwise altered.

Appraisals are often used for insurance purposes. An appraisal indicates the dollar value of the piece under consideration. Appraisals are often over-estimated, and are therefore a very poor estimation of price.

The need of the hour is to differentiate between a GIA GTL (Gem Trade Lab) Grader, and a GIA G.G . or Graduate Gemologist. Many assume that getting an appraisal by a GIA gemologist is the same as getting a GIA Certificate. The GTL (Gem Trade Lab) Grader is a GIA employee who performs the Diamond Grading for the Institute. A GIA Graduate Gemologist, on the other hand, has simply passed the GIA Diamonds and Colored Stone course.

Learn to Buy a Diamond

HOW TO BUY A DIAMOND?

Buying your dream diamond can be quite complicated considering the various factors which go into determining the quality of a diamond. But if you are aware and know the right things you can get the best diamond at a fair price. The best way would be to put down in steps the strategies that guide you through the diamond buying process.

• Learn as much as you can about diamonds through websites and other sources. You can also browse through our diamond education link on this website. The forums listed on our website such as diamonds will enable you to learn by interacting with other people with similar queries.
• Decide which properties of Diamond are most important to you. Write down, in order of importance, which of the 5C's are your priority: Cost, Carat, Color, Clarity or Cut. When we show people two stones with similar properties, one a bit smaller with a better cut and the other a bit bigger, but not as good a cut, they will usually prefer the better cut. Jewelers may also help you to make out the differences affecting your choice.
• Finding out the market price for your diamond is the next step. You can compare prices of diamonds but one has to remember that only similar diamonds can be compared with each other. This is because even a slight change in grading and weight can increase or decrease the price. There are also price differences which come as a result of certified and non-certified diamonds.
• Asking for a certificate is the next step. The Gemological Institute of America or better known as GIA is the most well recognized body in this field. But confusions have to be avoided when it comes down to appraisals and certificates, which are both provided by the GIA Gemologist. The EGL or the European Gemological Laboratory is one of the most recognized non-GIA laboratories. But you must beware of fake certification or no-name certification, or no brand name certification. This might result in you getting much less than what you had expected. Each lab has its own independent procedures for certification, and grading. But if you have more doubts to clarify you can do so on the diamond chat forum.
• Look for matching Color and Clarities based on your preferences. In other words, don't buy a High Color/Low Clarity or High Clarity/Low Color Diamond. Some questions pop up immediately. Why pay a premium for an Ideal Cut Diamond, and then accept a lower color and clarity? You pay a serious premium for getting say an E Color Diamond. What's the purpose of paying that premium and then buying an SI2 Diamond? Why not revert to a lower color shade and increase one or two clarities? This practice of asking questions enables you to make better choices.

 

Care Of Diamond

CLEANING AND PROTECTING YOUR DIAMOND

To make sure that the luster and sparkle in your diamond is retained over the years it has to be cleaned periodically. The cleaning process can be illustrated by the following methods:

• Professional Cleaning
  Having a professional opinion is the best option. The inputs might help you to know the condition of your diamond or diamond jewelry.
• Handle your Diamond sparingly
  Diamonds are natural magnets for grease; they're not easy to keep clean. Handling a diamond with your fingers provides enough oils from your skin (the type of "grease" that mostly affects diamonds) to alter the way your diamond looks. So less use means your diamond remains clean and sparkling.
• Mild liquid detergent
  Soak your jewelry in a small bowl of warm, soapy water made with any mild liquid detergent. Gently brush the diamond jewelry with a soft toothbrush while it is in the suds. Then, rinse each piece under warm running water. Pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Make sure to always stopper your sink.
• Household Ammonia
  To keep your diamond jewelry always looking beautiful soak the diamond in an ammonia-based household cleaner (such as window cleaner) overnight, once or twice weekly. In the morning, remove the diamond from the cleaner and brush it with a soft, clean toothbrush (one that has not previously been used in any way, and that you reserve exclusively for cleaning your diamond) to remove any leftover dirt. Take extra care to brush the back of the diamond as this will be the area that has collected the most oil and dirt. Swish in the solution a second time, rinse and drain on tissue paper.
• Jewelry Cleaner
  Use any reputed brand name jewelry cleaner and use it according to the instructions given on the label.
• Avoid harmful solutions
  Chlorine (as in household bleach) or abrasives (such as household cleansers or toothpaste) should never be used when cleaning diamonds, especially those which are set in jewelry. These erode some of the metals often used in diamond settings, and may loosen prongs, or even dissolve the metal completely.
• Ultrasonic Cleaner
  By sending high frequency sound waves through a detergent solution, ultrasonic cleaners cause vibrating fluid to remove accumulated dirt and grime. However, they can also shake loose stones from their mounting, so this method shouldn't be used on fragile settings (or estate jewelry), and is best undertaken by a professional jeweler.

The 5Cs of diamonds

• The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions. It is one of the most important factors to be considered while choosing your diamond. It is an aspect which is directly influenced by man. The other three are influenced totally by nature.
• The cut of a diamond should not be confused with its shape. Shapes are cut from the original rough diamond, and whatever the shape, a well-cut diamond is always better able to reflect light.
• Diamonds are usually cut with 58 facets, or separate flat surfaces. These facets are placed at precise angles to each other. This relationship is designed to maximize the amount of light reflected through the diamond and to increase its beauty.
• Rough stones can be cut to their maximum weight and monetary value but loses some "brilliance and "sparkle". Similarly rough stones can also be cut into the most beautiful stone, despite heavy weight loss and lowered monetary value.

1  Well Cut :

When a diamond is cut to proper proportions and light is reflected from one facet to another and then dispersed through the top of the stone. Within the well cut standards are the ideal, excellent and very good categories.

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Ideal Cut: This Cut combines the best in brilliance and fire.

Excellent Cut: Exhibits great beauty yet with a slight flexibility of percentages.

Very Good Cut: This range of cut balances precise proportions and price considerations.

2 Deep Cut :

If a diamond is cut too deep, light escapes through the opposite side of the pavilion.

3 Shallow Cut :

With a shallow cut, light escapes through the pavilion before it can be reflected.

The cut or proportions of a diamond is measured in percentages relative to the diameter of its girdle. The girdle diameter is always considered to be 100%. Supposing the Girdle diameter is 100%, the table is 5.6mm and the total depth is 6.1mm. Thus the diamond has a table of 56% and depth of 61%

 

CLARITY

The clarity of a diamond refers to how clear, or "clean" the diamond is. Diamonds have imperfections which are present in its rough state. The clarity scale is a measure of the severity of those imperfections or "inclusions" as it is known in the trade.

In addition to internal inclusions, surface irregularities are referred to as blemishes. These two categories of imperfections-inclusions (internal) and blemishes (external)-make up clarity. The fewer the imperfections, the rarer and more valuable the diamond.

Clarity is graded using a very precise and complex method of evaluating the size, location, and visibility of inclusions.

Clarity        Scale

FL
IF                  Flawless- Internally Flawless

VVS¹
VVS^{2           Very Very Slightly Imperfect}

VS¹
VS^{2            Very Slightly Imperfect}

SI¹
SI^{2             Slightly Imperfect}

I¹
I²
I^{3                   Imperfect}

Clarity is a measure of internal structural imperfections called "inclusions". Grades of clarity, which are mostly those used by Gemological Institute of America (GIA), are:

FL-Flawless:
Shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10 x magnifications when observed by an experienced grader.
IF-Internally Flawless:
Have no inclusions when examined by an experienced grader, but will have some minor blemishes.
VVS¹, VVS² - Very Very Slightly Imperfect:
Contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10x magnification.
VS¹, VS² - Very Slightly Imperfect:
Contains minute inclusions such as crystals, clouds or feathers when observed with effort under 10x magnification.
SI¹, SI² - Slightly Imperfect:
Contains inclusions such as cavities, knots clouds, feathers and included crystals which are noticeable to an experienced grader.
I¹, I², I³ - Imperfect:
Contains inclusions such as large feathers or large included crystals, which are obvious under a 10x magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.

 

COLOR

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The best color is no color at all. Diamonds allow light to be reflected and dispersed as a rainbow of color. This light dispersion, or color flash, has no effect on the technical grading of color.

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The absolute finest colorless stone carries a D rating, descending through each letter of the alphabet to Z, designating a diamond of light yellow, brown, or gray. This body color may be caused by the presence of trace elements, such as nitrogen, within the atomic framework of the carbon crystal.

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As the body color becomes more intense, the grade for color descends the scale. It is always best to compare diamonds graded by either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS) for accurate color grading.

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For best buy option regarding color it is recommended to go for a diamond with a color grade of K or better.

 

CARATS

• The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats. The word carat originated from the carob tree or Ceratonia siliqua. The tiny seeds of this tree are well known for their uniformity and consistent weight. Traditionally diamonds and gemstones were weighed against these seeds until the system was standardized, and one carat was fixed at 0.2 grams.
• One carat is divided into 100 points. A diamond weighing one quarter of a carat can also be described as weighing 25 points or 0.25 carats. Points are generally not used to describe weights over one carat.
• It is very important not to mistake carat weight as referring to the dimensions of a diamond. It refers to weight only.
• Prices of diamonds are expressed as price per carat. So when we say that carat weight has the biggest impact on the price of the stone, it refers to the unit price per carat, and not just the whole price of the stone.
• Example:
  Diamond "A" = 0.25 carats and costs $1,000 per carat. $1,000 x 0.25 = $250/stone

Size of a diamond Vs Rarity:
The rarity of a diamond is greatly affected by its size. The rarity of a 1.00 carat diamond is much greater than twice that of a .50 carat. Although it only weighs twice as much, the 1.00 carat is statistically much more difficult (rare) to mine than the .50 carat.

 

COST

The most important "C" you have to think about is COST. The few times you usually hear about cost, it is usually as a "salary guideline" or "buying tips" which may include "advice" to spend about two months salary on a diamond engagement ring.

Effect of each "C" on the cost:
Carat:

A Diamond of color G and SI1 Clarity grade will have a certain category of pricing when its range lies between 0.50 - 0.69 carats. When you take that same quality Diamond and increase its size to the next price category, which is the 0.70 - 0.89 carat range, the price increase will be approximately $1,100 per carat . If we further increase to the 0.90 - 0.99 carat range, the price increase will be approximately another $800 per carat . A further increase to 1.00 - 1.49 carat range, and the increase will be approximately another $800 per carat . A final increase to the 1.50 - 1.99 carat range, will increase the price per carat to $1200.

Color:

Supposing you have selected a 1.00 carat Diamond of K color and VS1 Clarity. If you move up to an H color, you will pay approximately an extra $1,700 per carat . By moving up to F color, the increase will be approximately $1,100 per carat . Again an improvement to D color will result in another increase of $900 per carat.

Clarity:

Starting with a 1.00 carat Diamond of G color and SI1 Clarity, if you move up to a VS1 grade you will pay approximately an extra $1000 per carat . Move up to VVS1, the increase will be approximately $700 per carat . Improve the clarity to IF and the increase will be approximately $700 per carat .

Cut:

Cut is a bit more complicated and depends on various factors, like the quality of Diamond being considered. Ideal cuts are generally much more expensive than the others. It all comes down on the quality of the cut, but lots of ceases have to be studied before making a final decision.

Finally we can see that a diamond's per carat price goes up when we go for higher clarity or better color grades. The price is also affected by the choice of carat range.

 

Identifying a Well Cut Diamond?

In defining the best cut, personal preference will always be an issue. So the listed category Well Cut, Very Good, Excellent & Ideal assists you in selecting the right diamond. Ideal cut has the narrowest range, with Excellent and Very Good following later. The lowest score becomes the overall cut grade. The lowest assigned grade for any individual characteristic is always used. For e.g. If the table percentage falls within excellent and yet the depth percentage is in the very good range, the diamond is classified as Very Good.

Every shape of diamonds does not have the same proportions. Every diamond shape requires its own guidelines in order to achieve maximum beauty. Due to mathematical differences, inherent in different shapes, the table and depth guidelines are formulated to maximize fire & brilliance. This is done to have a magnificent display that highlights the individuality and character of each shape.

Girdle:
The girdle is the outer edge of a diamond. It usually has a frosted appearance. Many diamonds are also finished with a fully polished or even a faceted girdle. This characteristic does not affect the value of a diamond and is often more a reflection the diamond cutter's preference. The girdle is rated in terms of thickness. Girdle size is generally defined as Extremely Thin, Very Thin, Thin, Medium, Slightly Thick, Thick, Very Thick, or Extremely Thick. The girdle can also be described as a range of these terms such as Thin to Thick. Avoid the two Extremes. When purchasing a diamond, select one with a girdle that is neither Extremely Thin nor Extremely Thick.

Culet:
The culet is the bottom point of the diamond. In many cases this point actually has a very small facet. The culet is referred to in terms that relate to the presence or size of this facet. The culet is generally graded as None or Pointed, Very Small, Small, Medium, Slightly Large, Large, Very Large, and Extremely Large. Smaller is more desirable.

Polish:
This characteristic refers to the finishing or final polishing of the facets, or flat surfaces. Contrary to common belief, diamonds are ground and polished, not chipped away, until they reach their final form. Each facet should be carefully fashioned by the diamond cutter to shine and be free from polishing imperfections. The polish of a diamond is generally defined as Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, or Excellent. When purchasing a diamond, select one with a polishing grade of Good or above.

Symmetry:
This characteristic refers to the alignment and positioning of the facets, or flat surfaces. Each facet should be carefully positioned by the diamond cutter in proper proportion and relationship to the other facets. The alignment of each facet should be sharp and precise; improperly joined facet junctions can make a diamond appear uneven. The symmetry of a diamond is generally defined as Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, or Excellent. When purchasing a diamond, select one with a symmetry grade of Good or above.

Fluorescence:
This characteristic refers to the diamond's ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. When exposed to UV light, many diamonds will give off a distinctive glowing blue coloration. Although fluorescence may be displayed in various shades, blue is the most common in diamonds. The fluorescence of a diamond is defined by its intensity as either None, Faint, Medium, Strong, or Very Strong. Most of the time fluorescence isn't an issue unless the intensity is Strong or Very Strong. In the very high colors D, E, and F, Strong fluorescence is considered less desirable. Ironically, in slightly lower colors of J and below, Strong fluorescence is desirable.

 

FAMOUS DIAMOND

Today a handful of diamonds have come to be known as symbols of history, legacy and magical lore. They own grand names to mark their significance and behind each of these spectacular diamonds lay a rich, magnificent story of history, discovery and technical achievement.

De Beers Millennium Star
A diamond so flawless and so great in size that the world's diamond experts cannot put a price on it. Discovered in the Republic of the Congo , De Beers mined the Star in the early nineties. It took over three years for their diamond cutters to shape the stone with lasers. What emerged was the world's only internally and externally flawless, 203-carat, pear-shaped diamond.

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The Koh-i-Noor

No stone on earth has as rich and fascinating a history as the Koh-i-noor. The lineage of this great diamond began in 1304 when it was held by the Rajah of Malwa. This was a time when possession of such a gem symbolized the power of an empire. In fact, it has been said that he who owns the Koh-i-noor rules the world. In 1738, after successfully invading Delhi , the next conquest of Nadir Shah of Persia was to acquire the great stone. Legend has it that a member of Emperor Mohammed Shah's harem informed Nadir Shah that the jewel was kept hidden in the emperor's turban.

Later that night, when Nadir Sha h unfolded the host's turban he discovered the gem. Upon seeing it he exclaimed, "Koh-i-noor," meaning "mountain of light." Nadir Shah then brought the jewel back to Persia . There it remained until 1849 when the British annexed the Punjab and took possession of it.

Three years later, after a public viewing in London , crowds expressed disappointment in the lack of brilliance in the stone. So it was decided that the gem be re-cut to accentuate its brilliance, thereby reducing its size from the 186-carat diamond to its present size of 108.93-carats.

In 1853, there was some question as to whether Queen Victoria would return the grand stone for fear of the misfortune it was rumored to bring. She answered the query by having it mounted in a tiara, joining more than two thousand other royal diamonds.

Toady the legal ownership of the Koh-i-Noor still remains a wrangle among world leaders vying for its possession.

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The Centenary Diamond

The discovery of the Centenary diamond was made official in 1988, on the eve of De Beers's one-hundredth anniversary. In fact, it was during the banquet celebrating the company's centennial mark that the discovery of the perfectly colored, 599-carat diamond was first announced to the public. The diamond was discovered when De Beers' laser equipment detected a large mass in one of the walls of its mines. The mass resembled an irregular matchbox whose largest flat surface was concave. To complicate matters, the planes of this stone were angular and there was a horn protruding from the top. In order to bring this mass to life as a polished diamond, a master cutter had to be found. The irregular shape of the rough stone meant that only the most skilled craftsman would be able to reveal the diamond's inner beauty without ruining the stone completely.

De Beers commissioned Gabi Tolkowsky, one of the world's most renowned stone cutters. His first decision had to be where and how to cut. He finally decided that, in spite of its unusual proportions, he would cut it as one single, large diamond. One hundred and fifty-four days later, Tolkowsy had removed fifty carats of the magnificent stone. What remained of the original "matchbox" stone was a 520-carat diamond. This diamond remains as the largest modern cut diamond in the world today.

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Cullinan

In 1905, as miners filed out after a long day in South Africa 's Premier mine, one miner noticed what appeared to be a shiny object lodged in the earth. With nothing more than a pocket knife, he pried it lose from the ground and presented it to his mine manager. This humble discovery is regarded today as one of the greatest diamond discoveries of all time.

When no buyers were found for the great stone, it was decided that the diamond would be made into a gift for King Edward VII of England . It was decided that the great stone would be cut into two smaller stones: Cullinan I and Cullinan II. The larger of the two (Cullinan I) was renamed the "Great Star of Africa." The cutting of the Cullinan was so successful that the two new gems became part of the Crown Jewels of England .The Cullinan II, humbly measuring 1.7 x 1.5 inches, was handsomely set in the brow of the British Imperial State Crown.

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The Taylor Burton

Richard Burton presented Elizabeth Taylor with one of the world's largest and most beautiful diamonds. If any gem could be noticed next to the beauty of Elizabeth Taylor it was this 69-carat, pear-shaped diamond.

The stone was unearthed at the Premier mine of South Africa in 1966. And it was Harry Winston who cut and polished the rough stone from its original size of 244-carats. It has been moving in and out of auction houses, and the last recorded sale was to an anonymous Saudi buyer for $3,000,000.

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The De Beers Diamond
It was not long after De Beers Corporation set about the business of mining diamonds that their first major discovery surfaced. A stone weighing 428.5-carats was unearthed from the Kimberly mines of South Africa . At 228.5 carats after its polishing it was thought to be the worlds largest cut diamond in 1889. It has the honor of being the fourth largest cut diamond in the world.

KNOW YOUR DIAMOND

TABLE:

This refers to the flat top of a cut stone. It is sometimes called as its face.

CROWN:

This refers to the portion of a cut stone above the Girdle. It consists of a large flat area on top called a table, and several facets below it. These include the Star Facet, Bezel Facet and Upper Girdle Facet respectively.

GIRDLE:

This refers to the edge formed where the top (crown) and bottom (pavilion) of a stone meet. The girdle is the area normally grasped by prongs when a stone is mounted onto a setting. Many diamonds are also finished with a fully polished or even a faceted girdle. The girdle is rated in terms of its thickness.

PAVILION:

The pavilion is the bottom portion of a cut stone, beginning at the girdle and going to the point at its end. It includes two separate facets namely the Lower Girdle Facet and the Pavilion Facet.

CULET:

The culet refers to the bottom point of the diamond. In many cases this point actually has a very small facet. The culet is referred to in terms that relate to the presence or size of this facet.

Branded jewellery makers innovate to tackle rising gold prices

In a bid to make gold jewellery affordable, branded jewellery makers may now opt for making standard gems studded jewellery using lesser amount of gold with the prices of the yellow metal constantly on a bull run.

Gold prices have appreciated by 20% since March this fiscal and are currently rallying at Rs 17,000 per 10 gram, Pankaj Parekh, chairman, Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council, eastern region, said. Bachcharaj Bamalwa, vice chairman, All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation, said many branded jewellery makers have already started making diamond studded standard jewellery using 14 carat gold instead of 18 carat.

This has made a price reduction by 16%, whose benefit jewellery makers have been able to pass on to the consumers, Bamalwa said. He said jewellery makers are now considering making standard diamond studded jewels in 9 carat and see whether the market accepts it.

While for jewellery makers buying gold has become a critical affair, Indian exporters as well as exporters worldwide are trying to penetrate into the Indian market, though gold as jewellery buying has come down by more than 70% in India keeping pace with the global trend, Parekh said.

Bamalwa said jewellery purchase in Italy, the second highest consumer of gold after India, has come down 75% and Turkey, the third largest consumer by 94%. But across the world gold as an investment buying has gone up by 20% and official buying by around 15% with most central banks across the world increasing gold stock.

Gold as in investment buying across the world never exceeded 5% of total gold sales until the economic meltdown, Bamalwa added. However, gold imports till October were 170 tonne working out to an average import of 24.3 tonne per month much below the average monthly import of 32.5 tonne in 2008-09. The average monthly import till 2007-08 was 40 tonne, which may again happen if prices go down to a level of Rs 15,000 per 10 gm, Bamalwa said.

Jewelry Care Guide

GENERAL TIPS

Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place.

Keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or in a box with compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece individually in soft tissue paper.

Don't jumble your jewelry pieces in a drawer or jewelry case. Pieces can scratch each other.

Be careful when removing your jewelry to wash your hands. Do not leave your jewelry on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip down the drain.

Have your jewelry checked for loose prongs, worn mountings, and general wear and tear at least once a year. Have your jewelry professionally cleaned every six months.

There are many types of small machines on the market that will clean jewelry in a matter of minutes using high-frequency sound. These machines are called "ultrasonic cleaners" and are available in many different models and prices. They can be a convenient way to quickly clean your jewelry at home. However, ultrasonic cleaners can damage some jewelry. Please refer to the sections below for comprehensive care information.

CARING FOR YOUR DIAMOND JEWELRY

Diamond jewelry is very popular. Some pieces, such as diamond engagement and wedding rings, are often worn 24 hours a day. Even though you may wear your diamond jewelry around the clock, you should give thought to its care. Diamonds are durable, but they still require proper maintenance. Diamonds can get smudged, soiled and dusty.

Lotions, powders, soaps, even natural skin oils, put a film on diamonds and cut down their brilliance. Clean diamonds "glow" because the maximum amount of light can enter the stone and return in a fiery brilliance. It takes just a little care to keep them that way.

Do not wear diamond jewelry, especially rings, when doing rough work. Even though diamond is one of the hardest materials in nature, it can still be chipped by a sharp, sudden blow.

Chlorine can damage and discolor the mounting on your diamond jewelry. Keep your diamond away from chlorine bleach or other household chemicals. You should also remove your diamond jewelry before entering a chlorinated pool or hot tub.

Clean your diamonds regularly using a commercial jewelry cleaner, a mix of ammonia and water, or a mild detergent. Dip the jewelry into the solution and use a soft brush to dislodge dust or dirt from under the setting.

Avoid touching your clean diamonds with your fingers. Handle clean jewelry by its edges.

CARING FOR YOUR GEMSTONE JEWELRY

There are many different types of colored gemstones, some of which require specific care and cleaning procedures. However, there are some general care and cleaning rules, which apply to all colored gemstone jewelry.

Many natural gemstones are treated or enhanced from the time they are extracted from the earth by one or more traditionally accepted jewelry industry practices. These treatments and enhancements can affect how you should clean and care for your colored gemstone jewelry.

After wearing, wipe your precious gemstone jewelry thoroughly with a clean, soft, slightly damp cloth. This will enhance the gemstone's luster and ensure that your jewelry is clean before storage.

Store gemstone pieces individually in soft pouches.

Do not expose your precious gemstone pieces to salt water or harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or detergents. These chemicals may slowly erode the finish and polish of gemstones.

Hair spray, perfume and perspiration may cause jewelry to become dull. Apply all cosmetics, perfumes and colognes before putting on colored gemstone jewelry. Make sure to wipe your gemstones after wear to remove any chemicals, oils or perspiration.

Do not subject gemstone jewelry to sudden temperature changes.

If you have an active lifestyle take extra precautions with some types of gemstone jewelry. Emeralds, for example, are brittle and should not be worn when doing household chores or any other activity where the stone could be hit or damaged.

Be extra careful with ultrasonic cleaners. Some gemstones are fragile and can be damaged by ultrasonic cleaners.

CARING FOR YOUR GOLD JEWELRY

Karat gold jewelry pieces make up the majority of many fine jewelry collections. Gold comes in many different styles and colors, but the care and cleaning procedure remains the same.

Remove all gold jewelry before showering or cleaning. Soap can cause a film to form on karat gold jewelry, making it appear dull and dingy. By preventing the formation of this film, you immediately reduce the occasions your pieces will need to be cleaned.

To clean your jewelry at home, you'll find many commercial cleaners available. In addition, you will find a soft chamois cloth an effective and inexpensive way to keep your pieces lustrous and shining.

For certain gold jewelry, especially pieces that do not contain colored gemstones, an ultrasonic cleaning machine may be appropriate.

Be careful of chlorine. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your gold jewelry. Do not wear gold jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub.

You can remove tarnish with a jewelry cleaner, or by using soap and water mixed with a few drops of ammonia. Carefully brush with a soft bristle brush. An old toothbrush can also be used. After the brushing, simply rinse with lukewarm water and allow to dry. Karat gold jewelry set with colored gemstones may require special cleaning procedures.

Grease can be removed from karat gold jewelry by dipping the jewelry into plain rubbing alcohol.

CARING FOR YOUR PLATINUM JEWELRY

Platinum is one of the rarest and most durable precious metals. It is resistant to tarnishing and discoloration due to chlorine and other chemicals. These factors, along with its strength and white luster, have made platinum an increasingly popular choice for jewelry, either on its own or as the setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones. However, despite its durability, platinum jewelry needs to be properly cared for.

Platinum jewelry can be cleaned the same way you can other fine jewelry. A professional cleaning every six months will keep your platinum jewelry in great shape.

Store your platinum jewelry separately and with care, not allowing pieces to touch each other because even platinum can be scratched.

Signs of wear such as scratches can eventually appear on platinum. However, due to the metal's durability there is usually little metal loss from the scratch. If visible scratches do appear, have the piece professionally repolished.

If your platinum is set with diamonds or other precious stones, be especially careful, as these materials can be more susceptible to damage. Some fine jewelry pieces combine platinum with karat gold jewelry. Care for these pieces as you would your gold jewelry.

CARING FOR YOUR STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

Sterling silver, like other precious metals, can oxidize with time. But properly maintained silver jewelry improves with age and develops a lush patina. Treat your silver well, care for it properly and it will reward you with a long life and a lustrous look.

Clean your silver jewelry with a mild soap and water solution, allowing the water to bead up, and then patting dry with a soft cloth. For more stubborn dirt, use a jewelry cleaner designed for silver use.

Store your silver in a cool, dry place, preferably in a tarnish-preventive bag or wrapped in a soft piece of felt or cloth. Store pieces individually so that they don't knock together and scratch.

Do not rub silver with anything other than a polishing cloth or a fine piece of felt. Tissue paper or paper towels can cause scratches because of the fibers in these products.

Make sure your silver is not exposed to air and light during storage as this can cause silver to tarnish. And don't wear sterling silver in chlorinated water or when working with household chemicals.

CARING FOR YOUR TITANIUM JEWELRY

Titanium is a light, strong, lustrous metal. Pure titanium is as strong as steel and can withstand a lifetime of punishment. These factors, along with its lightweight durability and hypo-allergenic nature have made titanium an increasingly popular choice for jewelry, either on its own or as the setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones. However, despite its durability, titanium jewelry needs to be properly cared for.

Titanium jewelry is easily cleaned with water and a non-abrasive soap or cleaner. Make sure to dry well with a soft cloth.

Store your titanium jewelry in a safe place wrapped carefully and individually to prevent scratching.

If your titanium is set with diamonds or other precious stones, be especially careful, as these materials can be more susceptible to damage. Some fine jewelry pieces combine titanium with karat gold jewelry. Care for these pieces as you would your gold jewelry.

CARING FOR YOUR PEARL JEWELRY

Cultured pearls are precious jewels and should be treated as such. They're also the products of living creatures. Cultured pearls are formed when an irritant is introduced into a mollusk. The mollusk secretes a substance called nacre, which covers the irritant and produces the pearl. Nacre gives pearls the rainbow of colors and lustre that makes these gemstones so treasured, but its delicate nature also makes pearls particularly susceptible to damage. For this reason you should be extra careful with your cultured pearl jewelry.

Apply cosmetics, hair sprays and perfume before putting on any pearl jewelry. When you remove the jewelry, wipe it carefully with a soft cloth to remove any traces of these substances.

You can also wash your pearl jewelry with mild soap and water. Do not clean cultured pearls with any chemicals, abrasives or solvents. These substances can damage your pearls.

Do not toss your cultured pearl jewelry carelessly into a purse, bag or jewel box. A pearl's surface is soft and can be scratched by hard metal edges or by the harder gemstones of other jewelry pieces.

Place cultured pearl jewelry in a chamois bag or wrap them in tissue when putting them away.

Cosmetics, perspiration, oils and ordinary wear weaken and stretch the threads on which the pearls are strung. Have your pearls restrung once a year to prevent breakage. Make certain the pearls are strung with a knot between each pearl. This will prevent loss of pearls if the string should break.

Suggestions

Clean jewelry looks better and keeps its finish better than dirty jewelry. Cleaners and cleaning methods can damage your jewelry. Ask your jeweler, when you buy a new piece what is the best way to clean the jewelry. Here are a few do’s and don’ts and some tips to help you keep your jewelry looking its best.
Do
* Store your jewelry individually wrapped or in a box with compartments so they don’t scratch each other
* Use an Ionic cleaner if you can find one even on opals, pearls and emeralds
* Use a soft cloth to colean porous gems like lapis, turquoise, jade and malachite
* Avoid heat and strong light on your Opals because it can dry them out
* Put a ring holder next to the sink to catch your rings while washing your hands so they don’t wander down the drain.
Don’t
* Use a sonic cleaner on anything but diamonds, rubies, sapphires, gold and silver without consulting the manufacturer of your jewelry
* Get lotion, perfumes, oils or other chemicals on your jewelry.
* Wear your jewelry when it might be subject to sharp blows or chemicals as in cleaning, gardening or playing sports
* Wear Kunzite or Zircon in sunlight as it could cause them to fade.
* Use paper towels for cleaning as they can scratch your gold or silver.
Tips for Cleaning your Jewelry
1. Clean your earring posts and wires with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
2. Try a Water Pik® to clean imbedded materials in chains.
3. Diamonds are brittle and can be chipped, so wear them with care.
4. Check with your jeweler to see if your stones are treated and what special care must be given to treated stones.
5. Don’t wear your metals in a swimming pool as the chlorine is not good for them.
6. Your stones can crack if they are subjected to sudden temperature changes.
7. Soap film can dull your jewelry

Care Tips for All Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is beautiful and popular. Gold comes in many styles and colors, but all gold jewelry will benefit from some tender, loving care!

Care Tips for All Gold Jewelry

* Don't wear your gold jewelry while bathing or cleaning. Soap won't harm gold, but it will leave a filmy residue that will coat karat gold jewelry, causing it to appear less lustrous and dingy. If you prevent the film from forming, it will be easier to keep your jewelry beautiful and will reduce cleaning time and effort.

* Avoid chlorine! Don't wear gold jewelry in the pool or hot tub or when using chlorine bleach or cleaners. Chlorine reacts with gold, particularly at high temperatures. Exposure to chlorine can permanently damage and discolor your gold jewelry.

* Use a chamois cloth to clean gold jewelry. A chamois cloth is a gentle, safe material for returning the luster to your jewelry.

* Avoid storing or otherwise exposing gold jewelry to hard, abrasive materials. Gold is a very soft metal, easily scratched even by rubbing against other jewelry.


Special Cleaning Tips for Gold Jewelry - Without Gemstones

If your gold jewelry has gemstones, e-mail me for a cleaning recommendation or consult a jeweler. Gemstones have special care requirements. The stones or settings may be damaged by the cleaning methods listed below.

* Tarnish can be removed with a commercial jewelry cleaner or with soap and water with a few drops of ammonia. Brush the cleaning solution into the gold with a small brush (a toothbrush works well). After you have finished cleaning, simply rinse the gold with lukewarm water and allow it to dry.

* Grease can be removed from gold by dipping it into ordinary rubbing alcohol.

* Ultrasonic cleaners may be appropriate for some gold jewelry. Ask a jeweler to advise you before using this method, since certain pieces can be damaged by this cleaning method.