Gemstones are known for their beauty, durability, and rare nature. Some gemstones have also been associated with giving energy, attracting wealth, and boosting confidence. One of the most famous collections of gemstones is The Crown Jewels.
In addition, each month of the year has a birthstone that has meaning for those born in that month. Let us look at the April birthstone, the diamond, the symbol of everlasting love.
Diamonds are some of the most common gemstones on engagement rings. Sapphires come in second, but they are just as popular because they offer a range of color options.
When it comes to wedding rings, solitaire rings are the most preferred. Apart from rings, diamonds also make excellent stones for other jewelry. Diamond pendants or diamond stud earrings make great gifts.
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Types of Diamonds
Before you decide on getting that big diamond, you must know the different types of diamonds. Diamonds can either be mined or lab-grown. Both mined and lab created diamonds can be clear-colored or fancy-colored, so you have two categories of diamonds to pick from.
Mined diamonds are taken from the earth’s surface, while lab grown diamonds are made in the lab. As a result, the two types of diamonds are distinguishable under a microscope. Since humans can always create more lab-grown diamonds, they are more affordable compared to mined diamonds.
When it comes to these diamonds, you can get clear diamonds or fancy-colored diamonds. Both types of diamonds are naturally occurring and can be created in the lab. Colored diamonds get their color from elements such as sulfur, nitrogen, or boron present during their formation.
As a result, they can be blue, yellow, brown, and black. Pink diamonds are similar to transparent diamonds. However, due to additional pressure from all sides after their formation, these diamonds reflect light differently, giving them a pink color.
Since colored diamonds are rare, they cost more than other clear diamonds. In terms of pricing lab grown diamonds are the cheapest, followed by clear diamonds and then fancy-colored diamonds.
Diamond Cuts and Shapes
Once mined, diamonds must be processed and refined before being sold. In the past, diamonds were cut by hand, so the process was long and tedious. Technology has made it easier and now diamonds are cut using lasers. The result is accurately cut diamonds with no precise edges.
A diamond’s cut refers to how the surface of the gem has been divided into facets. The facets determine how light passes through the diamond and therefore determine the size and sparkle of the diamond. This is because the size and orientation of the facet matter. The different diamond cuts range from excellent to poor.
The diamond shape is the geometric characteristic of the diamond outline. A given diamond shape can have multiple different cuts. Let us look at some of the diamond shapes you should know before you purchase a diamond.
1. Round Shaped Diamonds
Round diamonds are the most common shape bought. The round shape plays a vital role in their sparkle. The shape allows the diamond to sparkle more, so an excellent cut will make the diamond stick out.
Also, a diamond has high brilliance when the amount of light coming out of the diamond is undispersed. When it has a lot of fire, this refers to the ability of the diamond to disperse light into the rainbow. The round shape is perfect for fine pieces such as rings and necklaces. The shape also gives the jewelry a classic look.
2. Oval Shape
The oval shape is less common, so if you are looking for a unique shape, this is the one for you. The oval shape offers similar brilliance and fire to the round shape. When you compare diamonds of the same carat, the oval-shaped diamonds are slightly larger, because of their oblong nature.
The shape is durable because it contains no sharp edges and costs less than a round diamond shape.
3. Emerald Shape
In the past, the emerald shape was reserved for cutting emerald gems. The diamond shape offers long edges from its rectangular shape. The shape also allows for some of the biggest diamonds at low prices. However, clarity is an issue of concern with this shape.
The shape is graceful and has a shallow crown which makes it great for rings, pendants, and earrings.
4. Pear Shape
Cutting the perfect pear shape is quite burdensome. This makes the pear shape rare and often quite expensive. The price range makes the diamond shape perfect for an exotic engagement ring if you want to make a fashion statement.
5. Princess Shape
The princess cut shape is familiar to most and falls second after the round shape. The shape exhibits similar fire and brilliance qualities to those of the round-shaped diamonds. The selling point of this shape is the lower price per carat compared to diamonds of a different design.
6. Cushion Shape
The shape combines square or rectangle shapes with round edges. The cushion shape is customizable and has different designs. Therefore, the diamond can be personalized and is open to the jeweler’s creativity. It offers good brilliance, fire, and an elegant look.
7. Heart Shape
No shape is more associated with love than the heart shape. The heart shape is quite an exquisite shape that falls in a higher price category. The design is quite tough because the heart has to be symmetrical. Heart shapes are carved in premium cuts with more carats, which cost more money.
The shape is perfect for rings, pendants, and earrings. An upside with this shape is it may gain value over time because of its premium features.
Conclusion
If you want to give a memorable gift or the perfect ring, consider buying a diamond. Diamonds are both beautiful and durable. There are several types of diamonds, so you do not have to worry about the price. You can always get lab-created diamonds which are more affordable.
There are several factors you need to be aware of when shopping for diamonds. Diamonds come in different shapes, and the shape will affect the price. There are also other qualities to watch out for when picking diamonds. Also, ensure that you are getting certified diamonds, you do not want to waste money on fake ones.
