Diamonds can be of different shapes which are called cuts. Cut of the diamond mainly refers to its width, length & depth. The cut is one of the most important features that decide the value of a diamond & normally account for nearly one third of any diamond's appraisal.
Let us now look at the common 10 types of diamond cuts:
1. Round Cut
2. Oval Cut
3. Asscher Cut
4. Radiant Cut
5. Cushion Cut
6. Heart Cut
7. Pear Cut
8. Princess Cut
9. Emerald Cut
10. Marquise Cut
Round Cut: Round cut diamond has this feature of having a 360-degree symmetrical shape.
Oval Cut: Oval cut diamonds are very close in shape to round cut ones. They have a longer outline & are one of the popular types chosen for engagements rings as their length accents slender & longer fingers.
Asscher Cut: Asscher brothers of Netherlands in 1902 designed this variation of emerald cut diamonds. The main difference among asscher cut & emerald cut diamonds is that asscher cut ones are square instead of being rectangular.
Princess Cut: These are the commonly used non-round shaped diamonds available nowadays. The princess cut diamonds have now been in the market for only about 30 years but due its popularity are now second only to the round cut ones.
Radiant Cut: Radiant cut diamonds are similar to princess cut diamonds, but are slightly more rectangular in shape & have the corners blocked.
Cushion Cut: With larger facets which bring out its brilliance, this diamond cut with rounded corners is most commonly used in solitaire engagement rings.
Heart Cut: Heart shaped cut diamonds are considered the most romantic of all the available diamond shapes. The diamond cutter requires special skills to create the special smooth heart shape with rounded lobes & tapered point for these diamonds.
Pear Cut: The pear cut diamonds are often called teardrop shape due to its single point one end and the other end being rounded. By its looks the pear cut diamonds are very feminine in their style and help in creating a slimming, subtle effect on the fingers of its wearer.
Emerald Cut: These are cut in stepped rectangular fashion and offer unique optical appearance which highlights clarity of the diamond.
Marquise Cut: Marquise Cut diamonds are very similar in appearance to oval cut ones with the tapering points at both ends being the major differentiating feature.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Loose Diamonds
Diamonds are quite well known in the form of rings, necklaces and bracelets. But are they equally popular as loose stones? The reaction to this a few years ago would have been negative! But loose diamonds are gaining a lot of attention lately. Was this popularity attained out of the blue? Definitely not!
Loose diamonds gained their popularity out of two reasons. Firstly because people demand for jewelry that reflects their style and this is possible only if it is made according to their likes and needs. So personalized jewelry is what people are seeking these days. Especially when it comes to engagement rings or wedding bands, they do not want it to be just as normal as any other ring. Second reason is that loose diamonds are a better form of investment than a piece of diamond jewelry. Loose diamonds, or any category of gemstones for that matter, will fetch you much more than what you invested in it!
In spite of all these, there is a very important factor that every potential buyer would want to keep in mind before their purchase. This is to see that they buy certified diamonds. Many might come up with an argument about the certification factor. I say it is very important because a diamond without the certification from any of the recognized gemological institutes like GIA, IGI or the likewise, is of zilch value. A certificate marks the credibility of loose diamonds. Most importantly, you would face problems insuring your diamond without a valid certificate and it would also be very difficult for you to sell it away at a later date, if the need arises!
B2cjewels.com is an online loose diamonds and jewelry portal offering an extensive range of certified loose diamonds to select from. The diamonds offered are certified by laboratories recognized worldwide such as the GIA, AGS, EGL, HRD and the like.
Loose diamonds gained their popularity out of two reasons. Firstly because people demand for jewelry that reflects their style and this is possible only if it is made according to their likes and needs. So personalized jewelry is what people are seeking these days. Especially when it comes to engagement rings or wedding bands, they do not want it to be just as normal as any other ring. Second reason is that loose diamonds are a better form of investment than a piece of diamond jewelry. Loose diamonds, or any category of gemstones for that matter, will fetch you much more than what you invested in it!
In spite of all these, there is a very important factor that every potential buyer would want to keep in mind before their purchase. This is to see that they buy certified diamonds. Many might come up with an argument about the certification factor. I say it is very important because a diamond without the certification from any of the recognized gemological institutes like GIA, IGI or the likewise, is of zilch value. A certificate marks the credibility of loose diamonds. Most importantly, you would face problems insuring your diamond without a valid certificate and it would also be very difficult for you to sell it away at a later date, if the need arises!
B2cjewels.com is an online loose diamonds and jewelry portal offering an extensive range of certified loose diamonds to select from. The diamonds offered are certified by laboratories recognized worldwide such as the GIA, AGS, EGL, HRD and the like.
Loose Diamonds – Still the Sign of Royalty!
For thousands of years diamonds have symbolized wealth, love, power, spirit and magical powers. It was believed that diamonds were the fragments of stars and the teardrops of the Gods. Diamonds were believed to possess magical qualities of Gods which were beyond the understanding of ordinary human beings. Precisely, all those who possessed diamonds were believed to be the owners of extraordinary and mystical powers!
Till the 15th century, only kings wore diamonds and that too only to wars where the diamonds were studded on their leather breast plates. The concept of diamond jewelry evolved much later when the technology to cut diamonds into the complex faceted forms was developed. With this development loose diamonds transformed into diamond jewelry, became slightly more affordable and thus, common among the ordinary people.
Over the past 2 decades, diamond jewelry has become very popular among the masses; and the popularity peaks are witnessed most in the stratum of engagement rings. But are loose diamonds that popular amongst common people? I doubt so! We have heard of celebrities and other socialites buying loose diamonds and that too in bulk to have them embedded on their accessories like shoes, handbags and even the dog collars for their darling pooches! But how many of us can go out there and get loose diamonds at least to have a customized engagement ring? I am sure not many!
Hence, though diamonds symbolize an unbreakable bond and all of us would love to get one for our loved ones, we settle for a piece of diamond jewelry rather than a 3 carat certified loose diamond of ideal cut and FL clarity. This is not because our loved ones are not worth it, but just because we can’t afford it!
But if you happen to be one of those lucky ones who can afford to buy loose diamonds, the best place I can suggest to get those exclusive ones is B2CJewels.com. Here you will find certified loose diamonds of your choice and specifications and can also get it shipped to any place in the US.
Till the 15th century, only kings wore diamonds and that too only to wars where the diamonds were studded on their leather breast plates. The concept of diamond jewelry evolved much later when the technology to cut diamonds into the complex faceted forms was developed. With this development loose diamonds transformed into diamond jewelry, became slightly more affordable and thus, common among the ordinary people.
Over the past 2 decades, diamond jewelry has become very popular among the masses; and the popularity peaks are witnessed most in the stratum of engagement rings. But are loose diamonds that popular amongst common people? I doubt so! We have heard of celebrities and other socialites buying loose diamonds and that too in bulk to have them embedded on their accessories like shoes, handbags and even the dog collars for their darling pooches! But how many of us can go out there and get loose diamonds at least to have a customized engagement ring? I am sure not many!
Hence, though diamonds symbolize an unbreakable bond and all of us would love to get one for our loved ones, we settle for a piece of diamond jewelry rather than a 3 carat certified loose diamond of ideal cut and FL clarity. This is not because our loved ones are not worth it, but just because we can’t afford it!
But if you happen to be one of those lucky ones who can afford to buy loose diamonds, the best place I can suggest to get those exclusive ones is B2CJewels.com. Here you will find certified loose diamonds of your choice and specifications and can also get it shipped to any place in the US.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
CONFLICT DIAMONDS
CONFLICT DIAMONDS or BLOOD DIAMONDS
Though access to diamond mines is restricted, determined individuals can smuggle diamonds out for sale. Such diamonds are used by rebels to fund conflicts. These illegally traded diamonds used to fund conflicts are called CONFLICT DIAMONDS or BLOOD DIAMONDS. These are used to finance purchases of war such as food, medicines, weapons etc.
Conflict diamonds can be referred to as prisoners of war; if they are found on the field they are sold. Some times they are traded directly for weapons to reduce the traceability of the transaction or they may be exchanged for currencies of various nations.
Owing to the closed nature of the diamond industry and the difficulty in tracking and monitoring diamonds; diamonds are viewed by terrorist as the ultimate means to fund their operations.
The illicit trade of diamonds is identified as a social and political problem; centered severely in Africa including several nations like Liberia, Angola and Sierra Leone.
The problem is not the diamond but the rebels who intend to use diamonds for their illegal goals.
To eradicate the problem of conflict diamonds the United Nations, Governments and Nongovernmental Organizations worked out the Kimberley Process Certification System to ensure that the conflict diamonds do not enter the legitimate diamond supply chain. The diamond industry also adopted a voluntary System of Warranties to assure consumers that their diamonds are from sources free of conflict. B2cjewels.com is one such place where you get a wide range of Conflict-free diamonds in various shapes and designs. The diamonds at B2CJewels.com are certified and bought from established dealers of the industry.
Though the percent contribution of conflict diamonds to the diamond industry has gone down to 1% from 4%, the aim continues till the complete absence of conflict diamonds. The goal is indeed to end conflict. End the conflict and there will be only diamonds that bring prosperity.
Though access to diamond mines is restricted, determined individuals can smuggle diamonds out for sale. Such diamonds are used by rebels to fund conflicts. These illegally traded diamonds used to fund conflicts are called CONFLICT DIAMONDS or BLOOD DIAMONDS. These are used to finance purchases of war such as food, medicines, weapons etc.
Conflict diamonds can be referred to as prisoners of war; if they are found on the field they are sold. Some times they are traded directly for weapons to reduce the traceability of the transaction or they may be exchanged for currencies of various nations.
Owing to the closed nature of the diamond industry and the difficulty in tracking and monitoring diamonds; diamonds are viewed by terrorist as the ultimate means to fund their operations.
The illicit trade of diamonds is identified as a social and political problem; centered severely in Africa including several nations like Liberia, Angola and Sierra Leone.
The problem is not the diamond but the rebels who intend to use diamonds for their illegal goals.
To eradicate the problem of conflict diamonds the United Nations, Governments and Nongovernmental Organizations worked out the Kimberley Process Certification System to ensure that the conflict diamonds do not enter the legitimate diamond supply chain. The diamond industry also adopted a voluntary System of Warranties to assure consumers that their diamonds are from sources free of conflict. B2cjewels.com is one such place where you get a wide range of Conflict-free diamonds in various shapes and designs. The diamonds at B2CJewels.com are certified and bought from established dealers of the industry.
Though the percent contribution of conflict diamonds to the diamond industry has gone down to 1% from 4%, the aim continues till the complete absence of conflict diamonds. The goal is indeed to end conflict. End the conflict and there will be only diamonds that bring prosperity.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Different Diamond Shapes
Diamonds, to most people, connote glittering round gems known to tempt women. True!
These dazzling stones are natural crystals with varied shapes and sizes formed in the earth over millions of years. By the diamond cutters prowess these crystals are carved into stunning and exhilarated stones. The greatest sized, flawless diamonds with most brilliance can be owed to the diamond cutter’s art.
Though individuality and taste determine fashion, the ten basic shapes of diamonds are:
Round Brilliant: This is, by far, the most popular shape and has set the standard for all other shapes. Often confused with Round, this shape is a modern, revised version of the Round which has been refined for brilliance.
Oval: The pleasing effect created by this elongated shape makes it very popular among woman with short hands for three stone rings, though not very popular for solitaires.
Marquise: Its elongated brilliant shape is inspired by the enticing smile of the Marquise de Pompadour. It looks as much elegant when used as solitaire as magnificent when enhanced by smaller diamonds.
Pear: A hybrid cut, combining the best of oval and marquise and resembling a luminous teardrop is the pear cut, predominantly popular with pendants and earrings.
Heart: This ultimate symbol of love is usually preferred for sentimental reasons.
Emerald: Having old world elegance, the emerald cut is a rectangular cut also known as the step cut due to its resemblance to the stair case.
Princess: This is a square or rectangular cut which has refractive properties almost near round brilliant and often finds its way in solitaire engagement rings. It complements hands with long fingers.
Trilliant: The exact design of this cut may vary from a traditional triangular shape to a more rounded triangular shape depending upon the diamond’s natural characteristics and the cutter’s personal preferences.
Radiant: Not widely popular, the radiant cut combines the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round.
Cushion: Similar to the radiant cut and rounded at the corners, this is an antique shape often referred to as pillow-cut or candlelight diamond. Owing to its awe-inspiring romantic and classic look, the cushion cut diamonds stand out from the crowd of round brilliant.
The innovation in trends of diamond shapes is reaching revolutionary new heights. Already added to the existing styles are the flower, cloverleaf, triangle and the kite. The enchanting work of the diamond cutter is what creates master pieces of art.
These dazzling stones are natural crystals with varied shapes and sizes formed in the earth over millions of years. By the diamond cutters prowess these crystals are carved into stunning and exhilarated stones. The greatest sized, flawless diamonds with most brilliance can be owed to the diamond cutter’s art.
Though individuality and taste determine fashion, the ten basic shapes of diamonds are:
Round Brilliant: This is, by far, the most popular shape and has set the standard for all other shapes. Often confused with Round, this shape is a modern, revised version of the Round which has been refined for brilliance.
Oval: The pleasing effect created by this elongated shape makes it very popular among woman with short hands for three stone rings, though not very popular for solitaires.
Pear: A hybrid cut, combining the best of oval and marquise and resembling a luminous teardrop is the pear cut, predominantly popular with pendants and earrings.Heart: This ultimate symbol of love is usually preferred for sentimental reasons.
Emerald: Having old world elegance, the emerald cut is a rectangular cut also known as the step cut due to its resemblance to the stair case.
Princess: This is a square or rectangular cut which has refractive properties almost near round brilliant and often finds its way in solitaire engagement rings. It complements hands with long fingers.
Trilliant: The exact design of this cut may vary from a traditional triangular shape to a more rounded triangular shape depending upon the diamond’s natural characteristics and the cutter’s personal preferences.
Radiant: Not widely popular, the radiant cut combines the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round.
Cushion: Similar to the radiant cut and rounded at the corners, this is an antique shape often referred to as pillow-cut or candlelight diamond. Owing to its awe-inspiring romantic and classic look, the cushion cut diamonds stand out from the crowd of round brilliant.The innovation in trends of diamond shapes is reaching revolutionary new heights. Already added to the existing styles are the flower, cloverleaf, triangle and the kite. The enchanting work of the diamond cutter is what creates master pieces of art.
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