It was said that Cupid's arrows were tipped with diamonds. The Ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were splinters of stars that fell to Earth and some said they were the tears of the Gods. Diamonds have been sought after, fought over and even worshipped so it is appropriate they have become the ultimate gift of life.
Why a diamond?
The reasons for buying a diamond are as diverse as the people who desire them.
It was said that Cupid's arrows were tipped with diamonds. The Ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were splinters of stars that fell to Earth and some said they were the tears of the Gods. Diamonds have been sought after, fought over and even worshipped so it is appropriate they have become the ultimate gift of life.
Why a diamond?
The reasons for buying a diamond are as diverse as the people who desire them.
Diamonds are beautiful. Formed millions of years ago they have stood the test of time with a fire and brilliance that is unquenchable. They create an aura of success and inspire feelings of pride.
Diamonds are durable. A diamond is the hardest substance known. They resist deterioration and you can be confident that the diamond you buy today will still shine as brilliantly when your great-grandchildren wear it.
Diamonds are rare. For every carat of rough diamonds recovered, more than 250 tones of ore have to be blasted, crushed and processed. Only 20% will be gem quality.
Choosing a diamond
Two diamonds may at first glance look alike but the truth is that they are very different. Although they may be of equal size, their “value” may vary greatly. No two diamonds are the same they are unique.
There are four characteristics that make each diamond different and it is wise that you these when buying a diamond.
The 4 Cs
The characteristics that make each diamond unique are known as the 4 Cs - cut, color, clarity and carat weight. It is the combination of these four factors that determines the value of a diamond.
Cut
While diamonds come in different shapes, such as round, pear or marquise, the term “cut” refers to proportion. The well-cut, balanced diamond has unbridled brilliance, sparkle and fire.
The quality of the cut determines a diamond’s brilliance. It is the skill of the cutter that unlocks the natural beauty. Most diamonds are cut with a full 58 facets and it is important that these are cut to precise angles. A diamond that is cut well will reflect light from one facet to another and then back out through the top of the diamond. Only a well-cut diamond will really sparkle.
Colour
Most gem diamonds seen alone appear white but most have a hint of colour, mainly yellow. Diamonds with no trace of colour at all are extremely rare and the closer they are to no colour, the more rare and valuable they will be.
Diamonds with a strong pure colour that are called "fancies" are also rare and very valuable. The Argyle Mine in Australia, which is the world's biggest diamond mine, produces the rare pink diamonds as well as beautiful cognac and champagne coloured diamonds.
Clarity
Diamonds were formed millions of years ago, deep within the earth under enormous heat and pressure. Consequently, most diamonds contain tiny marks, known as inclusions, which make each stone unique, like a finger-print.
Nearly all diamonds contain unique clarity characteristics. Flawless diamonds are exceptional and costly. Most inclusions are invisible unless magnified.
The inclusions don't necessarily weaken the stone and when they don't interfere with the passage of light they do not affect its beauty. The fewer and smaller the inclusions, the more valuable a diamond will be.
Carat weight
A diamond's weight is measured as a carat. It is the simplest of the characteristics to measure and from the earliest times it was used to calculate a diamond's value. Diamond weight is measured in carat and one carat is equal to 0.20 of a gram or one-fifth. As a guide, two carats is about the same weight a paper clip, and each carat is divided into 100 points so a diamond of 50 points weighs 0.50 carats.
For more technical information on the 4Cs: Choosing a beautiful diamond
How to care for your diamond and setting
Diamonds need care to keep them at their brilliant best. A clean diamond reflects light better than one that has been dulled by skin oils, soap, cosmetics and grease.
So it is important to clean your diamonds regularly and your jeweller is the best person to do this.
The setting can be checked at the same time. However, it is also possible to clean your diamonds at home using a liquid jewellery cleaner. Soak the diamond in the solution (the dirtier it is, the longer it will need to soak) and then scrub gently with a soft brush. Making sure the plug is in the sink, rinse well with water and dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
Do not wear your diamonds while doing rough work and don't let your diamond jewellery come into contact with chemicals as the setting may pit or discolour.
It is advisable to take your jewellery for a professional clean and polish every year.
Posted August 01, 2009