My Pink Diamonds

When it comes to history, diamonds have a very long and fascinating record as one of the most intriguing gemstones on the planet. You may be familiar with the term, ‘Diamonds are Forever’, made popular by the De Beers advertising campaigns and for good reason. Forged billions of years ago, long before dinosaurs roamed the planet, they have survived the forces of nature to reach us. They have been used throughout the ages as bearers of mystic powers and incredible beauty. Through the centuries they have been revered and admired by many civilisations. Part of the credit for the almost mythical reverence to diamonds throughout the years belongs to the fact that these beauties are quite rare in their most sought after gemstone quality form. Not only are these diamonds rare in numbers but also in the number of skilled artisans that can compliment their exquisite beauty. Diamonds are the hardest of precious stones. The word “diamond” itself is a derivative of the Greek word adamas, which means “unconquerable”. It is the undiminished beauty of diamonds that has made them so highly prized throughout several centuries. This does not mean that a diamond cannot be damaged only that they are difficult to damage requiring a very precise strike in an exact location in order to damage the surface. It is believed that the first diamonds were discovered nearly 3000 years ago in India. They were considered valuable because of their ability to refract light and were used as either decoration or as talismans – for protection and warding against evil. During the Dark Ages, diamonds were believed to hold medicinal value. There were instructions that those suffering illnesses or having wounds should hold a diamond in the hand and make a sign of the cross for healing. Some even believed that ingesting diamonds could assist in recovery (and even a cure) from various illnesses. As time progressed into the Middle Ages, diamonds were more often viewed as items of value rather than items of mystical healing powers. As a result of the growing demand and value of diamonds, mine owners began spreading rumours that diamonds were poisonous if swallowed. This prevented workers in the mines from swallowing the diamonds for the purpose of smuggling. Today, India suffers from a relatively depleted supply of diamonds. Smaller finds have been discovered in Borneo and Brazil, though nothing as significant as those reserves once found in India. Diamonds were discovered in South Africa by a child playing with brightly coloured stones by a river in 1866. One of the stones was recognised to be a diamond and the gem cut from it was appropriately named “Eureka”. This created a massive diamond rush and the start of a new beginning for diamonds. Diamonds mined in South Africa still continue to make up a large percentage of the world’s diamond jewellery, though there are gem quality diamonds that are being discovered all the time in other countries around the world. More recently, Australia has become a contender when it comes to the production and mining of exquisite gem quality diamonds. Other countries for diamond mining include Africa, Canada, Russia, and South America in addition to those mined in Australia. One thing that is worth noting is that the vast majority of diamonds discovered around the world are not gem quality stones. In fact, only about one fifth of the diamonds that are mined are diamonds that are considered to be gem quality. Those that are not considered to be gem quality are used for drilling and similar applications. Diamonds are not all clear either – the stones come in many colours; the least common of the colours red. They are very rare. Coloured diamonds command huge prices and are highly prized by collectors. Diamond rings are today considered to be a token of love, particularly when given to one by a suitor. The tradition of diamond engagement rings being used for engagements is believed to have begun when Austria’s Archduke Maximilian made a gift of a diamond ring upon his engagement to Mary of Burgundy. The wearing of a diamond ring on the ring finger, or fourth finger of the left hand, is derived from the ancient Egyptians. This is due to their belief that the vein that extends from this particular finger to the heart is also the “vein of love”. This tradition is still practiced today, much like the giving of a diamond ring as a symbol of engagement and true love. Most people associate the wearing of diamonds to rings for engagement to be married. There are plenty of occasions that warrant diamonds and diamond pendants, diamond bracelets and diamond earrings make excellent choices for marking a special occasion or memorable life moment. Remember, diamonds have for quite a while been (and will certainly continue to be) a girl’s best friend. Any celebration that is cause for joy is an excellent occasion for a gift of diamonds. Among such occasions to be considered are: a girl’s sixteenth birthday (or any other birthday that you deem to be special), the birth of a child, religious milestone events, personal achievements, holiday gifts etc. Perhaps the best reason of all to give a woman the gift of a diamond is “just because”. If you have a special person in your life, whether it’s a lover, a wife, a sister, a daughter, or a mother – you can rest fairly well assured that a diamond makes an excellent gift for almost any occasion. Before you consider buying a diamond, it is important to understand the four “C’s”. They are excellent indicators of the value of the diamond. For those who are not familiar with the four C’s of diamonds they are: colour, clarity, cut, and carats. You will want to consider each of these when selecting a diamond to make sure your investment will stand the test of time and hopefully become more valuable over the years. The more spectacular the occasion, of course, the more stunning you will want your diamonds to be. Of course you will want to keep in mind your budget, your setting, and the metals that will be used in conjunction with the piece of jewellery you are creating or purchasing. Each of these will have an impact on the finished product. Good choices for diamonds are 18ct gold or platinum. In recent years platinum has become the choice for diamond jewellery as the metal is very hard and durable complimenting the gemstone properties. When purchasing diamond jewellery, it pays to do your research ahead of time. Thanks to the growth of ecommerce on the internet, you will find that the prices of diamonds these days from one jeweller to the next are rather competitive. Better quality at better prices can now be found online instead of in the high street. Another thing to consider when buying your diamonds is whether or not they are conflict free. “Conflict free” diamonds are diamonds that do not lead to the funding of wars and that are not mined under conditions that are deemed unethical by the Kimberly Process. Always insist on Conflict Free diamonds from your jeweller. Enduring, romantic, magical. Diamonds continue to captivate and enchant as symbols of hope and great expectations for the future. Enjoy.

Diamond EarringsDiamond earrings are some of life’s most precious things. And what’s not to love about diamond earrings? These treasures are made from the toughest gems on earth. Their name has rightfully been derived from adámas, which is Greek for “unbreakable and untamed.”Diamond earrings, including diamond hoops, diamond loops, and diamond stud, have grown in popularity since the beginning of the 19th century. This is because of the improved techniques used in the cutting and polishing of diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs. At the same time, the world saw prosperity in developing global finances and increased supply of diamonds. The media had likewise increased the stature of diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond stud with strategically designed and targeted advertising campaigns. Diamond earrings todayToday, there is a steady demand for diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs. And it is more so if these treasures rank high in terms of the four Cs: cut, clarity, color and carat.The gem that diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs are made from originate mostly from the southern and central regions of Africa. This sums up to about 49% of diamonds. However, India, Canada, Brazil, Russia and Australia are all catching up in diamond mining and distribution. How to choose diamond earrings, as well as diamond studs, diamond hoops, and diamond loopsNot all diamond earrings, diamond loops, diamond hoops, and diamond studs are created equal. Some are worth their price tags. Others are of bad quality or are badly cut. If you are in the market for diamond earrings, diamond loops, diamond hoops and diamond stud, make sure you know how to spot the gems from the lemons. Here are some tips. 1. Use the four Cs when examining diamond earrings, diamond loops, diamond hoops and diamond studs. Since the carat of these will already be known to you, examine based on cut, clarity and color. These can be distinguished by the naked eye under good lighting. 2. The brilliance of diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs can be distinguished by putting these gems against your skin’s tone, against a dark piece of clothing and under low light. The more they sparkle at these conditions, the better they are.3. Repeat these four C tests using all your choices for diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond stud. Select those that “grade” well.4. Watch out for visible occlusions, especially when buying diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs with smaller stones. This is because these occlusions weaken the diamond, and lessen their capacity for refractions and reflection. How to clean diamond earrings, as well as diamond loops, diamond hoops, and diamond studs Once you’ve selected your diamond earrings, diamond hops, diamond loops and diamond studs, you need to know how to best take care of these. These are investments, which can grow in value with time. Here are some tips:1. Diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs may acquire dirt from your skin. This is through powder, lotions and oils in the area close to the diamond earrings, diamond hoops, diamond loops and diamond studs. These chemicals may cover your diamond treasures with a thin oily film. This then leads to gunk in the crevices of these gems. Make sure to decrease the possibility of this happening by trying to keep away from these elements. 2. You can used a jewelry cleaner to clean your diamond earrings, diamond loops, diamond hoops, and diamond studs. Or you can mix your own solutions, using ammonia, water, and baking soda or a liquid dishwashing soap. 3. Use only a microfiber cloth in wiping your diamond treasures. This is to avoid the accumulation of lint.

Most advertising campaigns by De Beers feature their famous slogan “A Diamond is Forever.” Consequently, women seldom sell a diamond and often feel uncomfortable buying diamonds previously owned by other women. There is a sentimental aspect to diamonds that is very different from other tangible assets like boats, houses or automobiles. However, there are occasions when consumers need to sell their diamonds and, unlike the used car market, there is not a well-developed method for consumers to sell their diamonds.

As a consumer, you face some unique challenges when trying to get the best price for your diamond in a safe and comfortable manner. Your starting point is to know exactly what you are selling. This is much easier if the diamond has a grading report from a major laboratory like the GIA or AGS. You have more of a challenge if there is no formal grading report. In this case, you need to find an independent appraiser who can evaluate the diamond and determine its quality and potential value.

Once you know your diamond’s specifications, you can find the current retail asking price by checking with online retailers to see what similar diamonds are selling for in today’s retail market. It is unlikely you will be able to get the going retail price for your diamond. Selling your diamond at 80% to 90% of that amount would make it sell quicker. Be realistic about your expectations. The lowest cost online retailers, not the expensive jewelry stores with double the price, set the value of your diamond.

You now know your target price and simply have to figure out how to find the right buyer for your diamond. There are several options available to sell your diamond and you need to determine which is best for maximizing your money and safety while minimizing your time and effort.

Your first thought might be to go to the closest jewelry store or pawnshop and sell them the diamond. The key to remember here is that they do not need your diamond. They can get all the diamonds they want on the wholesale market. The only reason they will buy your diamond is if the price is a fraction of the wholesale price. They hope you need the money bad enough to take 25%-50% of what you could be getting for your diamond elsewhere. They might offer you a little more if you “trade up” to something in their display case. However, this often results in you paying more for the new diamond and receiving less for your diamond than if you sold it elsewhere.

Several online brokers specialize in buying diamonds and estate jewelry from consumers. They typically have you ship the diamond to them so they can determine the amount they will pay you. All too often, this amount is much less than their preliminary estimate so you must either pay the return shipping, or accept their price. If your main priority is getting money fast, this is a valid option. If your main priority is getting top dollar for your diamond, there are better selling methods available to you.

Auctions like eBay are very popular for selling jewelry items but there is so much low quality jewelry listed, it is hard for potential buyer to find your quality diamond. You are competing with jewelry retailers whose entire business is selling on eBay so they are experts at writing the descriptions (often with exaggerated quality), taking impressive pictures and shipping their items. Even if a bidder does find your item, the odds of getting your target price are slim to nil because other retailers are advertising items with similar descriptions for about half the amount you want. Notice I did not say they are advertising similar quality, just similar descriptions. Do a search for diamond rings with GIA grading reports and you will see the vast majority of diamond rings have paperwork from sources you have never heard of before.

Other effective ways to find a buyer are classified ads in local newspapers and bulletin boards at church or work. The challenge is reaching enough people to find at least one buyer willing to pay your price. You have to be careful when doing this kind of transaction, especially if selling to a stranger. Do the transaction in a safe place and be sure you have a valid form of payment. You do not want to hand over your diamond and end up with a phony cashiers check or bad personal check.

Some jewelry stores and online retailers will sell your diamond on consignment. Online retailers with a local presence have an advantage in that they have large numbers of diamond shoppers on their website plus walk in traffic that can see your diamond in person. They also have lower overhead and prices so you can get a bigger share of the selling price. With jewelry stores often marking up prices over 100%, your share is likely to be less than half of the selling price.

Just be sure to get a written description of the item you are giving on consignment and the minimum amount you will accept for your diamond. All too often sellers are not being able to get their jewelry items back from a store or only receive a fraction of the amount they expected from the sale. However, if you have patience and a low priced, trustworthy retailer to broker your diamond, you have an excellent chance of getting an excellent price for your diamond without the hassle and safety issues of selling it yourself.