Cityscope

Diamond Rings

06 Mar 09

By: Tavion

Diamond Rings



Diamond rings have come to signify important markers in our lives. Diamond rings may mean the vow of engagement or the thrill of weddings. For many, these diamond jewelry has come to signify tomorrow, and rightly so.

Diamond rings are not only symbols of engagement and weddings. Diamond rings are also investments – sound ones, at that – given the rarity of diamonds. Diamonds are the toughest gems on earth. Their name has been aptly derived from the Greek adámas, which means “unbreakable and untamed.”

Hence, diamond rings have been used for centuries to symbolize unbreakable promises. Whether these promises were soon broken or not, the preciousness of diamond rings remains.

Diamond rings grew in popularity during the start of the 19th century. This was largely due to a slight increase and regularity in the supply of diamonds. At the same time, during these years, developments had been made to improve the cutting and polishing of these gems. This increased the value of diamonds tremendously. With the global finances at an upswing at this time and the media hyping the value of diamond rings through savvy advertising, diamond rings became the favorite accessory.

The value of diamond rings are judged by the four Cs. The four Cs include the diamond ring’s cut, color, clarity, and carat.

Diamonds for diamond rings mostly come from the regions of central and southern Africa. On average, this is about 49% of the diamonds in the market. But then again, four other countries are improving in their diamond mining and distribution. These are Russia, India, Australia and Canada.

How to choose diamond rings


Since diamond rings are supposed to promise forever, it is ideal to buy diamond rings that can actually last forever. You can do this by closely examining your choices first before buying. You need to look for telltale signs for the four Cs. Here are some tips:

1. Judge diamond rings based on the four Cs. Your dealer will surely mention the carat to you. Base your scrutiny of the other Cs on the said carat. Do they have the required qualities of diamond jewelry of the said carat?

2. Diamond rings are supposed to be brilliant, albeit at varying degrees. Grade the brilliance of your diamond rings by looking at these against a dark piece of cloth or against your skin’s color tone. If you can, see the diamond rings under low light. Their brilliance should still shine through with these conditions.

3. As in buying other items, compare your choices of diamond rings first before selecting one to buy. Repeat the tests based on the four Cs, and then grade each of your selections. Buy the diamond rings that pass the four Cs tests the best.

4. Occlusions decrease the value and toughness of diamond rings. This is especially true for diamond rings that only have small stones. Occlusions lessen the refraction and reflection qualities of the diamond rings, as well as weaken their essence. Reject those diamond rings that have visible occlusions.

How to clean diamond rings


Diamond rings are more of an investment than anything. You invest on your promise of forever. At the same time, you invest in the world’s most precious stone. It is just right to take time to care and maintain your diamond rings. Here are some tips:

1. Lotion, powder, and oil can stain your diamond rings. These chemicals coat diamonds with an oily film that soon leads to the buildup of gunk in the crevices of the ring. Avoid this by avoiding applying these chemicals to where your ring will be.

2. A jewelry cleaner will do the trick in cleaning diamond rings. Else, you can make your own cleaner from ammonia, water, and a liquid dishwashing soap or baking soda. Wipe the cleaner off with a microfiber cloth only. Other cloths may leave some lint n diamond rings.

By: Tavion
www.articlerich.com
© 2008, 2009 Tauranga.co.nz Limited. All Rights Reserved.