February 26, 2010
$ – Tips on Diamonds
With all the Cs, Ps, and Ts to consider, what $s are necessary to get a diamond of your dreams? Well, depends on what you’re dreaming of! Got big ideas? You’ll have to sacrifice on those Ps. Dreaming of high performance? You’ll need to test drive the Cs. Don’t dream, but still want a diamond? Consider technology but use with caution.
Avoid those ads that promote having it all – and for the least amount of $$. Learn about the value behind the $-tag. Visit an American Gem Society jeweler and get all the right tips… Have a great weekend. … Dii
February 25, 2010
Looks Can Be Deceiving
If a diamond undergoes a treatment that makes it look better – but it really isn’t better – is that an enhancement? Clarity “enhanced” diamonds have been filled with a glass substance that “hides” the tiny fractures in the diamond. But, the fractures are still there – and if the filler comes out of the diamond, you will see the fractures again. (Yes it can come out.)
This treatment is great technology – but it should come with a warning for care. And it shouldn’t be sold as better than the original. This treatment doesn’t eliminate the fractures – it merely hides them. Take a good look. Shop with a jeweler that has the knowledge and the ethics to explain the differences. Don’t be deceived. … Dii
February 24, 2010
T-Tips on Diamonds
Diamonds are the work of Mother Nature; however, sometimes man decides to alter her work – by treating or enhancing the diamond. Treatment is what’s done to the diamond. Enhancement is what MIGHT be the result of the treatment. After all, wouldn’t you expect something that is enhanced to be BETTER than the original?
Maybe you like blue diamonds and can’t afford the work of Mother Nature. I’m with you there! This color change is permanent – and could be considered an enhanced diamond – it’s blue now!
What about clarity “enhancement”? This is where I question the improvements that are made. Looks can be deceiving. More tomorrow… Dii
February 23, 2010
P-Tips on Diamonds
It used to be that proportions were the way to judge a diamond’s cut. The size of the table and the depth of the stone were referred to as 60/60 – 60% table and 60% total depth – as if this made the diamond pretty. Well, not anymore… It takes more than numbers to assure beauty and value.
Today the buzz is all about Performance. It’s sexier – like a high performance automobile! And it requires a good look at the diamond rather than statistics on a piece of paper called a “cert”. Ask your jeweler to show you the performance of a diamond. Then, consider the color, clarity, and carat weight. Let your eyes decide… Dii
February 22, 2010
C-Tips for Diamonds
You may have heard of the 4Cs of diamond grading – cut, color, clarity, and carat. I put Cut first for a reason. This is the single most important C when it comes to beauty AND value. You may think big is better – and wearing a bigger diamond might seem better than wearing a smaller diamond than your BFF – but size doesn’t make the diamond the brightest or the best value. Today, it’s all about spending your money wisely – and retaining the bragging rights to beauty!!
Cut is also used to describe the shape – but that’s not what I’m talking about. I’m referring to the quality of the cut. Color, clarity, and carat weight are all rarity factors – the more rare, the more money. Cut quality is a BEAUTY factor. Who wants to wear a big dull diamond?
…Dii
February 19, 2010
R U Fakin’ It?
It’s easy to understand why diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are copied. They’re quite expensive when Mother Nature produces the pick of the litter. But, why would there be a need to “create” amethyst? At its best, it doesn’t come close to the price point of the other gems, yet, it’s regal color can mesmerize the best of us. So wouldn’t you want the “real thing”?
If you’re looking for a beauty in purple, be sure to shop with an expert – and a jeweler you can trust. Look for credentials in gemology and a reputation for honesty AND knowledge. It takes both. And your American Gem Society jeweler has it! Have a great weekend. …Dii
February 18, 2010
Purple Passion
Courtesy AGTA
Amethyst comes in one color – passionate purple. This variety of quartz is said to prevent intoxication, but merely looking into its deep, velvety color, you’ll feel the effects of a cocktail without having taken a sip.
There are lighter tones – and they might brighten your day – but ooh, ooh. Dark and delicious is what I’m talkin’ about… Dii
February 17, 2010
February Color
When February birth babies think of gemstones, they think of amethyst. But, when gemstone dealers think of February, they think of Tucson. This is an annual premier event for all color gemstone dealers from all over the world. How they came to land in Tucson is another story.
Gemstone cutters from Germany and South America show classic cuts and imaginative sculptures. Mineral and fossil hunters bring their latest discoveries. Designers show the results of their creative work – many being recognized at the “Oscars” of gemstones, the AGTA Spectrum Awards.
Although some shows are closed to the public, many roadside vendors and “tent” shows are open to all. It’s an experience full of color… Dii
February 16, 2010
Were You My Valentine?
Valentine’s Day was this past Sunday and I hope all the ladies received notes, flowers, candy, and kisses from someone special. Not to leave out the male species – I hope you weren’t left out in the cold either. Brrrrr Heaven knows, it was a cold weekend in many of our states!
I hope it’s getting warmer for everyone – Spring is just around the corner. Hold on… Dii
