History of Diamond Jewellery
The use of diamonds in jewellery dates back centuries, and has a long and rich history. Diamonds have been used to symbolize power, wealth, love and status throughout the ages. With their unparalleled shine and brilliance, it’s no wonder that these precious gems have graced the necks of royalty for centuries.
Diamonds have been mined since ancient times in India, but they remained a rarity until modern times when more reliable methods of mining were developed. The oldest known diamond jewellery is believed to be from the 4th century BCE in India. But it wasn’t until the 15th century that diamonds began to be cut into brilliant shapes such as ovals, emerald cuts, pear shapes and marquise cuts – all common today, such as diamond jewellery Australia.
The diamonds used in early jewellery were usually uncut or rarely cut into simple shapes like triangles or squares; however over time jewelers began to develop more sophisticated techniques for cutting them into elegant shapes with precise angles that maximized their brilliance and sparkle. This was done by hand with small saws or chisels until mechanized tools became available in the 19th century which greatly improved accuracy and speeded up production processes significantly – making diamond jewellery much more widely available than it had previously been.
Types of Diamonds
Diamonds are among the most sought-after gemstones in the world, and their popularity is only growing. This is because diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and qualities. Each type of diamond has its own unique characteristics that make it desirable for different purposes such as jewelry and investment. Here we will explore some of the most common types of diamonds available today.
The first type of diamond is the round brilliant cut which is perhaps the most popular diamond shape on earth due to its classic beauty. Round brilliant cut diamonds have 58 facets which create an intense sparkle when light reflects off them. This type of diamond has been around since 1919 when it was developed by Marcel Tolkowsky who designed it to maximize its brilliance and fire.
Another popular type of diamond is the princess cut which was invented in 1980’s and quickly became one of the most requested shapes for engagement rings due to its timeless elegance and contemporary appeal. The princess cut has fewer facets than a round brilliant but still creates a stunning sparkle with four beveled edges that create an octagonal shape from above or below making them very eye-catching pieces for any jewelry piece or collection..
Different Shapes & Cuts of Diamonds
Diamonds come in many shapes and cuts, each with its own unique characteristics and value. From the classic round brilliant to the rarest of all diamond shapes, understanding the different types of diamonds can help you make an informed decision when shopping for a diamond.
One of the most popular and iconic diamond shapes is Round Brilliant. This shape has 57 facets which allow it to sparkle more than other cuts, and is by far the most common shape found in engagement rings today. The Round Brilliant cut was created by Marcel Tolkowsky in 1919, who established ideal angles that would optimize brilliance within a round stone.
The Princess Cut is another popular choice for engagement rings, as it offers exceptional sparkle and brilliance despite its square or rectangular shape. It has 74 facets which give off intense flashes of light when hit by light rays from any direction – making it an eye-catching choice for those looking for an elegant yet affordable option.
Another classic cut is Oval Cut diamonds which feature 58 facets arranged around a symmetrical oval center stone. These stones are known for their timeless beauty and sophisticated look – perfect for those seeking an elegant piece with plenty of fire and brilliance. Oval Cut diamonds also tend to be less expensive than Round Brilliant diamonds.
Popular Colours of Diamonds
When it comes to buying a diamond, one of the most important decisions is to choose the right color. Popular colors of diamonds range from near-colorless (D-F) to faint yellow (K), and each has a unique look and feel. Whether you’re looking for something classic or something with a bit more sparkle, here is an overview of some popular colors of diamonds that might be perfect for you.
Near Colorless Diamonds
Near colorless diamonds are graded D-F on the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) scale and are typically considered to be the most desirable stones. These stones have very little color in them; D grade stones appear completely clear while F grade diamonds may have very slight hints of yellow or gray. While near colorless diamonds tend to cost more than other colored stones, they also offer excellent value since they look brilliant when set in jewelry and are more likely to retain their value over time.
Faint Yellow Diamonds
Yellow diamonds can range from faint (G-I) all the way up through fancy vivid (VVS1). Faint yellow diamonds are often chosen because they offer great value considering their low price point in comparison to near colorless options.
Benefits & Advantages of Wearing Diamond Jewellery
Diamonds are a timeless symbol of beauty and luxury, and wearing diamond jewellery is an excellent way to show off your personal style. Diamond jewellery can also have many practical benefits and advantages that go beyond just looking good.
One of the primary benefits of wearing diamond jewellery is durability. Diamonds are one of the hardest minerals on earth, making them particularly resistant to scratches, chips, and other damage caused by everyday wear-and-tear. This makes them ideal for everyday use in rings, earrings, necklaces and other items that you would wear regularly. Additionally, diamonds are known for their superb resistance to heat which means they will not fade or discolor with time like some other gemstones can.
Another advantage of wearing diamond jewellery is its value retention over time. The rarity of diamonds ensures that they typically appreciate in price over time – making them a wise long-term investment if you plan on buying or collecting diamond pieces as part of your personal style statement or portfolio diversification strategy. Additionally, diamonds are much more likely to be accepted as collateral than many other types of valuable items because they are widely recognized as having a stable market value due to their universal appeal across cultures and generations alike.
Where to Buy Quality Diamond Jewellery
When it comes to buying diamond jewellery, finding quality pieces is essential. Diamonds are an investment and you want to make sure that you are getting the best possible product for your money. That’s why it’s important to take the time to find a reliable source for your diamond jewellery purchases. Here are some tips on where to buy quality diamond jewellery:
- Visit Your Local Jeweler
Your local jeweler should be your first stop when looking for quality diamond jewellery. They will have access to a wide selection of diamonds, as well as expert advice on how best to choose the right piece for you and your budget. A reputable jeweler will also provide professional certification and warranties with any purchase, ensuring that your piece is genuine and worth what you pay for it. However, keep in mind that prices at local stores may be higher than online due to overhead costs associated with running a physical store location.
- Shop Online Retailers
Online retailers offer convenience and competitive prices due to their low overhead costs associated with operating entirely online businesses . There are many reputable online stores specializing in diamonds such as James Allen or Blue Nile who have stunning collections of both loose diamonds and custom made finished pieces of jewelry.
How to Care for Your Diamond Jewellery
Diamond jewellery is a timeless investment that can last for generations. They are often passed down as heirlooms and remain as beautiful as the day you purchased them. However, like any piece of jewellery, diamonds require special care in order to maintain their sparkle and luster. Caring for your diamond jewellery correctly will help ensure it remains beautiful for years to come.
The first step in caring for your diamond jewellery is to keep it clean. Daily wear can cause dirt and oils to accumulate on the surface of diamonds which can dull their beauty over time. To clean your diamonds use a soft cloth or brush with a mild soap solution and gently scrub the surface of the stone in circular motions until all dirt and debris have been removed. Be sure not to use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners which could scratch or damage the diamond’s surface.
Once cleaned, store each piece individually in an airtight container away from other pieces of jewellery which may scratch it or cause damage over time due to rubbing against each other during storage. It’s also important that you keep your diamond away from extreme temperatures, humidity, sunlight and water which could affect its colour or clarity over time if exposed for too long periods of time.