Jewelry Blog

Hundreds of Jewels Go Under Hammer at Sotheby’s London

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 06:59:00 +0000

Sotheby’s always brings the best of luxury world and most of the auctions are incredibly elegant and classy. This time around, they have announced that more than hundred of the world’s most expensive and luxurious jewels would go under the hammer in London. Of course, you may not have lots of money but if you stay somewhere in London, make sure you go and get a glimpse of these wonderful jewels before they are bought by someone else.

The 100.17 carat necklace may cost hundreds of thousands of pounds where as there are also many other watches, rings, necklaces and other kinds of jewels. British philanthropist Patricia Kluge is auctioning off jewels worth £2.25 million, and she must really be using that money to donate to the needy.

There are diamond pendant ear clips which are expected to cost £530,000 and a diamond ring set which would cost £132,000. The Burmese ruby and diamond ring may fetch £1 million and the blue gem may fetch a sensational estimate price of £3.8million. There are also other jewels which are not part of the Kluge collection and you can check them out in London.

Stuart Hughes Designs the World’s Most Expensive Belt, for Gucci

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 06:54:00 +0000

If you always wanted to live the life of a WAG, you need a lot of money and some trashy taste to begin with. Time to time, just because a few things are really expensive no matter how tasteless they are, I bring them to you so that you would know, how to be a successful WAG. For instance, here is what is being touted as the world’s most expensive belt by Gucci.

Gucci after all isn’t such a bad brand but this belt however expensive it might be, reeks of trashy taste that WAGs so love. It was designed by Stuart Hughes who has lately stopped making beautiful luxury goods and instead has switched over to pure expensive trash. The belt costs $250,000 and the Gucci logo is made of platinum. More info here

Crystal Chandelier -- Swarovski

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 03:22:00 +0000

The Swarovski company has been around for well over a century. The company's crystal artistry has shone in such well-known residences as Buckingham Palace and the White House.

Swarovski manufactures with various types of crystal, including the world-renowned, exquisite Swarovski crystal.

Swarovski crystal is considered the finest crystal in the world today. Once you've experienced owning a Swarovski chandelier you'll undoubtedly understand why.

Its crystal is machine cut and polished to achieve perfect optical clarity, razor-sharp faceting and unique spectral brilliance.

eBay's largest Swarovski dealer Sam Miz of "globallighting18" says, "An invisible coating on each crystal makes it easier to clean and maintain its clarity and elegance.

"Swarovski crystals will accentuate your home with a spectacular rainbow effect."

History of the Swarovski Brand

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 03:12:00 +0000

The Swarovski Company was founded in the late 19th Century when Daniel Swarovski invented an automatic cutting machine for crystal, and in 1895 established a crystal cutting factory in Austria. The birthplace of the factory was Wattens, which was chosen because local hydroelectricity made the energy-intensive process involved more cost-effective.

Today Wattens is home to the Swarovski museum which tells the story of the founder and the company's history and development right through to present day.

The Swarovski range includes jewelry, couture, crystal sculptures and miniatures, home décor and chandeliers. They also create crystal beads and promote other designers including these in their work. In order to maximize refraction and to give Swarovski its magnificent sparkle, the crystal contains around 32% lead. Some of the crystals are also coated in order to refract a rainbow spectrum.

All Swarovski sculptures are marked with a logo, this was originally an edelweiss flower but was replaced by the current swan logo in 1988.

Today all types of Swarovski crystal are hugely in demand as collectibles, and make a stunning display in any home, can be worn as vintage or contemporary jewelry or can be used as an investment piece as their popularity and value continues to rise.

To find out more about Swarovski crystal and beads please visit Crystal Collectibles and if you like this lens it would be great if you could rate it or favorite it.

Diamond Wedding Jewelry 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 05:42:00 +0000

Fashion keeps getting stranger and stranger. Even wearing purple feathers as hair accessories is common these days (I confess. I own a feather headband or two). But when it comes to jewelry, many women opt for tried and true pieces. Diamond journey necklaces, diamond stud earrings and dainty diamond bracelets are the most common items found in a woman's jewelry box. These classic trends aren't going anywhere either. Tried and true jewelry pieces will continue to be popular throughout 2010.

This is because jewelry is a lasting purchase. So when men buy jewelry for women or women buy something for themselves, they don't want it to be a fickle fashion trend. No surprise then that diamond jewelry will continue to be a female's fav this year, but it does not mean there won't be twists. I am the diamond girl after all!

Although the majority of jewelry worn will stay within the classic category, women will also choose to accessorize with bold pieces. Jewelry is a tale of two cities after all. To achieve this bolder look, women will pile on the cuffs and bracelets. Like 2009, 2010 is all about making statements. Dangle-style earrings channel this more intense look and continue to be a top pick. From diamond drop earrings to gold hoops with diamonds, it's impossible to go wrong with a dangle.

Classic pieces will also be given a bolder look in 2010 by layering jewelry pieces together. This applies to everything from cocktail rings to necklaces. For a unique take on a classic diamond pendant necklace, wrap it around your wrist and transform it into a bracelet, for example. It's fashion forward and classic.

The sky is the limit when it comes to jewelry in 2010. Celestial-themed jewelry is a top pick. Stars and moons are infiltrating the jewelry scene, with diamonds popping up here and there amongst the celestial themes. Flower motifs will also continue to be worn this year, especially sprouting up this spring.

Black and white motifs persist in proving people like dichotomy in their designs. Darkened metals paired with diamonds make a bold statement, as do black diamonds paired with white metal. The color scheme ranges in everything from earrings to bracelets. That said, white on white is a hit too. Diamonds always work well with white gold. Cluster gemstones and diamonds also make their way in everything from necklaces to rings, generating a big look with a smaller price tag.

Textured metals are also a key trend as are antique-style pieces. Old or young, everyone likes jewelry that has a history. This trend ranges from overt antique-like (wearing a coin) to subtle antique-like (wearing a grandmother's diamond pendant necklace).

Although trends vary from person to person, it's safe to say that 2010 will stay classy when it comes to jewelry.

Jewelry Trends 2010: Diamond Jewelry Excitement!

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 04:52:00 +0000

Every new year brings new styles, lines and trends in the world of jewelry. Many of which never see the light of day, but some go on to become wildly popular, even if only for a season or two. The key to deciphering what's hot and what's not is to marry your personal style with a fashion-forward design that speaks to who you are as an individual.Diamond jewelry allows you to do this in a way that many other accessories do not.

Here are 3 jewelry trends for 2010:

Customizable Diamond Charm Bracelet

Yes, charm bracelets have been around for quite some time now, so why would interest peak this year as opposed to any other? It's all about individuality. A charm bracelet out the box is nothing more than a manufacturer or designer telling you who they think you should be. The ability to customize a charm bracelet is you telling the world who you know you are. Diamond charms add a touch of elegance and luxury to a previously teen-driven jewelry trend.

Diamond Key Pendant

Last year, key jewelry made a big splash. This year, diamond key jewelry will make a bigger splash, especially during Valentine's Day 2010. The key, no pun intended, will be to find diamond keys that are uniquely designed with diamonds. Again, diamonds are what separate a luxurious key pendant from an average one. The higher the carat weight the more precious the pendant. Also, different gold colors will help make your key pendant standout from others. Look for pink gold key pendants as an alternative to the standard white or yellow gold.

Diamond Love Knot Jewelry

Another budding 2009 trend that is poised to be bigger in 2010 are diamond love knots. Again, the key is uniqueness. Look for love knot bangles and other items that you can buy as a set. Coordinating these jewelry items will give your look some versatility and set you apart from someone who dons just one piece. Different gold colors are another important part of this trend, and some designers are creating new styles of love knot jewelry that are very unique.

Work with these three trends for now and make sure you do plenty of homework. In a few weeks, you will want to start dropping some Valentine's Day gift hints to your significant other, so don't wait too long to start researching both online jewelry stores as well as your local jewelers. With any luck, you will find the perfect piece to add to your jewelry collection.

Most Expensive Handbag - Diamond Forever by Chanel Classic Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:05:00 +0000

Urban Satchel holds the title of being the most expensive purse. Chanel “Diamond Forever” Classic Bag came into picture which is priced at $261,000. Only thirteen of these pricey Chanel bags were created with only five available stateside. The alligator-skin bags featured clasps set with 334 diamond (3.56 carats) in the shape of Chanel’s trademark double-C logo. Eighteen-karat white gold was used to fashion both the clasp and the bag’s long shoulder straps. Stay tuned and find out which bag holds the title of being the world’s most expensive handbags.

Most Expensive Mobile Phone 2010 – iPhone 3G Kings Button

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 07:59:00 +0000

Amid the global economic crisis, the Austrian jeweler Peter Aloisson still develops a unique and innovative iPhone 3G Kings Button as the world’s most expensive mobile phone. The iPhone 3G Kings Button is dressed with high quality diamond and gold that make it special, unique and luxurious.

Its home button has integrated with high quality 6.6 carat diamonds and every corner of the phone has a white gold line which contain approximately 138 finely shaped diamonds on it. The lavish jewelry designer of the iPhone 3G Kings Button has created a record for himself by creating the most expensive iPhone 3G in the world.

The luxurious iPhone 3G Kings Button is available at the price of 1,790,000 Euros or about 2,411,111 USD.

Swarovski Crystals - Mark Super Luxe Oscar Dias

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 06:48:00 +0000

It is that time of the year when the Oscar fever rises to its pitch, when stars get busy with their superbly stylish designer gowns, when all talk cinematic rests on who wins the coveted trophy and of course the red carpet. Last year, the Oscars were all about cutting costs and still looking stylish. But with hopes rising on the economy front, luxury is back. And it’s best reflected on the stage design of one of the glitziest events in the annual calendar.

Stage designer David Rockwell has put his precious best into this complex design. Swarovski crystals, three moving platforms, many rotating LED panels and other effects such as mirrors and metal architecture are integral to the design. About 100,000 Swarovski crystals
hang on a stunning quarter-moon curtain, which is what makes the design super exquisite and a visual extravaganza.

The stage design has drawn inspiration from basic elements of making films, such as light and movement. The set was revealed on Wednesday by the designer. David Rockwell had in fact designed last year’s set too.
Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin will be the hosts this year. The male presenters will do their part from the mic closest to their entrances, while women will walk across the stage to do their presentations.

Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week Puts Its Bejeweled Foot Fowards

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 06:37:00 +0000

The Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week is symbolic this year. Apart from making strong fashion statements, it is also showing us how it is time to put the financial hard times behind us. Yes darlings, as the world bounces off from one of the worst economic crises of the world, the fashionistas in the French capital unveil their biggest and best in rare high-end jewelry.

Can Cleef & Arpels boutique is one that has garnered a lot of attention this February thanks to its diamond and pink sapphire necklace that will remind you of a Japanese garden. From what we hear, it took more than 3,000 hours to craft this gorgeous piece. It has a selling price of 430,000 Euros.

Even Mellerio dits is showing a lot of enthusiasm with its vintage range that dates back to 1613. The price is high ranging between $5,000 and $500,000 Euros. In other words, the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week is a happy place for all the fashion houses as they show their optimistic side in all the gorgeous jewelry pieces. By the way, they make for great investment options. More info

Diamond Studded Notebook, Gold Mouse, Stun

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 06:43:00 +0000

Ukraine Art Studio has decorated its laptops with an array of shining rocks for those crazy about them, on its newest collection.

The collection is not just about those super luxury names like Lamborghini Platinum Crocodile or Acer Ferrari
Gold Python, that make up
for the range of laptops, but the fact that each notebook has encrusted gold, diamonds
and Swarovski crystals. In effect, when you carry your Sony Vaio Blackwood for instance, people ogle at your laptop before you make an impression on them!

For the fashion
conscious folks, the line even includes, leather, snake as well as croc skin edition sets that includes, a notebook, a mouse, a mini case and a USB drive as well. The MJ Laptop Brilliant Limited Edition inlaid White & Black Diamonds
is the most exquisite offering of them all. What’s more, you can run your fingers or scroll with your palm
resting on a, golden mouse! Yes, a gold mouse that actually makes your PC run!

The MJ Laptop Brilliant Limited Edition inlaid with White & Black Diamonds is the most exquisite of all pieces though. The pieces cost 2,500,000 euro which is $3,520,660 and come with a 10 year warranty for the notebook. More info

Expensive Diamond Rolex Watch-Costs $ 46,000

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 06:33:00 +0000

Rolex is one of the most exclusive and luxurious watches that you could lay your filthy hands on. While the watch is famous all around the world, it is more popular for its look and its elegance. However, it turns even Rolex can go wrong sometimes.

Here is one by the famous watch company that costs $46,000 and looks like crap. The world’s ugliest Rolex comes with a custom leopard print diamond and sapphire Cosmograph Daytona. It is now being auctioned off for $46,000. 18k yellow gold case with 36 baguette cognac sapphires, 48 diamonds and leopard print dial are some of the goodies that you would get with this incredibly ugly watch.

It even hurts my eyes to see this watch, and you could image the fate of the slob who would end up buying it. It would not only make the person want to punish himself or herself for being foolish enough to buy this monstrosity but it would also render the buyer quite demoralized, for such is its ugliness. Watch here

Diamonds & Diamond Jewelry in Newdelhi (India)

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 05:28:00 +0000

Gomani Jewellery House - Diamond jewellery manufacturers and exporters.

Abhinandan Jewellers - Abhinandan Jewellers product diamond necklaces, earrings, finger rings, ets... manufacturing a new version of patterns aligned with the mesmerizing craftsmanship.

Nathumal Jewellers - Manufacturing, exporting and importing.

Tempus Gems-Traditional & Modern Jewelry -Dealers of antique, estate and mogul jewelry.

Djewels India - Djewels is specialized in the manufacturing of good quality diamonds & diamond jewellery.

Real Diamond - The most prominent diamonds exporters, wholesalers and suppliers from India.

Jindal Diamond - Jindal Diamonds company are manufacturer and wholesales of fine diamond jewelry.

Belirams - Fine Diamond Jewelry India - Belirams Jeweler are manufacturer and supplier of fine diamond jewelry.

Orra The Diamond Destination - Orra - The diamond destination is India's largest and only exclusive diamond jewellery retail chain.

Diamonds & Diamond Jewelry in Mumbai (India)

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 05:20:00 +0000

Diamonds & Diamond Jewelry in Mumbai

Surat Diamond Jewellery -Surat Diamond Jewellery manufactures and exports of diamond, pearl, silver and semi precious jewellery.

Lagu Bandhu Jewellers - Lagu Bandhu - Trades of fine diamond and gold jewelry. It has branches in Pune and Goa

Cygnus Diamond Jewellery-Lashmi Diamond -The world of Laxmi diamond. Laxmi sparkles are Manufacturers and suppliers of fine diamond jewelry

D'damas-Celebrate Always - Leading diamond studded jewellery-manufacturing company,

Roshni Jewels -Roshni Jewels is top most diamond manufacturers and suppliers. Traditional and modern diamond jewelry in India

Bhavani Gems-Diamond Importers, Manufacturers, Exporters -

Market diamonds of various sizes in rounds, princess & fancy shapes.

Precia Jewels - Precia Jewels sources its fine diamonds direct from the leading diamond manufactures in the trade.

Sparkles-Love Affair with Diamonds -Diamond Company engaged into manufacturing, exports- imports, wholesale and retail marketing of cut and polished diamonds.

Tanishq Diamonds - Tanishq - Manufacturers and suppliers of fine diamond jewelry and watches.

A Luxuriously Stylish Handset from Nokia Supreme-Expencive Phone

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 04:55:00 +0000

The world’s leading mobile phone manufacturer, Nokia has announced an all new handset that takes the threshold of luxury phones to an all new level. The latest creation from the Finnish phone maker, Nokia Supreme is perhaps one of the most gorgeous and striking phones ever to hit the markets. Nokia Supreme is etched with 12.5 cts of Pink diamonds and the entire phone is composed with 1225 set of beautiful gems that are arranged in a manner that makes possible for the designer to a 3 carat diamond in the center of the phone, that serves as the handset’s navigation button

For the lucky few, who would order this one of a kind handset, Nokia has decided to pamper these customers by packing the Supreme in a granite case, which would be embedded with interiors. The Nokia Supreme also contains 83 grams of one of costliest metals in the world, Platinum that has been used to design the veneers of the handset, along with eight platinum screws and also the center navigation mount, that sports the 3 carat diamond. This awesome handset is has been designed by the famed designer, Stuart Hughes and is available for a whopping $160,000.
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See also: Most expensive watches, Saree

Diamond Cupcake: This Is Since 1910’s Way Of Saying Thank You

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 07:18:00 +0000

The diamond and gold have been blended with the most exquisite recipes to create some real rare edible adventures. Last we heard, it was the Decadence D’Or at the Sweet Surrenders cupcake and candy shop at the Palazzo Resort on the Las Vegas strip which was an expensive deal. However, now we learn the before them the credit went to Mervis Diamond Importers.

Apparently, their bakers were the first to create a diamond cupcake that was festooned with eight ideal cut round brilliant diamonds all along the circumference of the delicacy whilst a 2 carat Asscher cut diamond stood proudly in the center.

But this post is about a sweet scoop that is selling for a huge $106,794 to celebrate Since 1910’s 100 year anniversary. Yep, the fifth generation family owned jewelry store was founded on January 1, 1910 and to mark the occasion they have created a diamond cupcake in vanilla or chocolate. This baked delight features a 5.48 carat round diamond on top. This precious ice is F color with Si2 clarity and a very good cut.

Expensive Diamond Watch- The Top With Spécialités Tourbillon Diamants Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 07:13:00 +0000

The he Spécialités Tourbillon Diamants Watch from the house of Blancpain is a very intricate piece of jewelry (yes, it seems to that more than being a timepiece) with a really hard to guess pattern. Being an overwhelming beauty that it is, the timepiece lays firm on a 40 mm wide white gold case. This particular space alone has to its credit some 20 carats of diamonds.

The pattern on the face is recreated on the rear of the watch. The white gold three piece set carries some 571 precious ices that total an impressive 14.15 carats. As for the dial, it has it own exclusive share of 164 diamonds and 5.17 carats.

If you are wondering what the mechanism is over here, then let us tell you that it is the very best comprising of 25Atourbillon movement. This is made of 238 components with 29 jewels
and a 168 hour power reserve. This one sparkles as if a million stars are sprangled on to your wrist. Pay $1,342,700 for this one.

Murano – Luxury Glass Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 06:30:00 +0000

If you are looking for a refined and luxurious look, then one of the options to consider is Murano glass jewelry. This artistic jewelry comes from the island of Murano in Venice, Italy and has led the way of fine jewelry for centuries.

For anyone that is interested in the art of fashion is the ability to highlight your look with Murano glass jewelry. The various types of jewelry available, as well as the unique looks that are a part of this provide you with some of the best options for making the most of any outfit. Whether you are building a casual and unique look or are interested in defining luxury with your accessories, you can find something for every occasion with Murano glass jewelry.

Some Murano Glass Jewelry

About Black Diamond Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 05:54:00 +0000

History
Black diamonds are the rarest in the diamond family. Also called carbonado, black diamonds were created 3.5 billion years ago. Over time, they pushed their way up to the surface through volcanic eruptions about 1 million years ago. Black diamonds are considered to be "young," as clear diamonds were formed approximately 4.25 billion years ago.
Features
Full of scratch marks containing sulfide deposits, black diamonds are opaque. They are just as hard as clear diamonds, and Brazil is the major supplier of black diamonds. Uniformity of color is quite uncommon, as most black diamonds appear gray and dark gray, and the surface of the diamond is pitted, which makes cutting challenging.
Mythology
Conflicting myths concerning black diamonds appear in different cultures. In India, black diamonds were considered cursed and a sign of death, as they resembled the eyes of snakes and spiders. In Italy, however, fighting couples could save their marriage simply by touching the stone, as it was believed that all of their troubles would leave them and enter the stone. The Karloff Noir diamond is believed to be the world's largest cut black diamond at 88 carats, and legend has it that when touched, it endows the person with good luck, fortune and happiness.
Men's Jewelry
The black diamond has been traditionally used in men's jewelry; however, today, more women are interested in acquiring black diamond jewelry as well. Often set in platinum or titanium in men's rings, the black diamond does not have the fire of white diamonds, but its luster has a beauty of its own. Titanium's color can be altered to match the black diamonds, which provides a striking effect when worn.
Women's Jewelry
In women's jewelry, small black diamonds are often paired with small white diamonds to take advantage of the beautiful contrast between the two. Interestingly, black diamonds look better contrasting with white, rather than clear diamonds, so clarity in the range of G to I would contrast better than finer diamonds. Consequently, the white stones would also cost less, which helps to offset the price of the black stones. Cocktail rings, earrings, pendants and tennis bracelets have enjoyed a surge in popularity, as women's fashions continue to use black and white as the basis for most designs.
Wedding Jewelry
Since the turn of the twenty-first century, black diamonds have become more popular in wedding jewelry, with both bride and groom sometimes choosing wedding bands with black diamonds set in them. Sometimes, the bride will also choose an engagement ring with either a black diamond main stone surrounded by white diamonds, or a white diamond solitaire with black diamond accent stones.
Fashion Jewelry
Genuine black diamonds are not used in fashion jewelry. However, names of certain stones may confuse the purchaser. The Alaska Black Diamond is actually hematite; The Nevada Black Diamond is merely obsidian; and a Radium Black Diamond is really smoky quartz.

Differences between Cubic Zirconia and Diamonds

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 05:42:00 +0000

Refraction: With cubic zirconia, there is a rainbow of colors in a prism effect because it disperses light more than diamonds do. With diamonds you see pure white when it reflects sunlight.
Texture: Diamonds are much harder and clean cut than cubic zirconia. Interestingly, cubic zirconia will be more “flawless” in appearance than real diamonds. CZ is made made and as such is made without flaws. Diamonds are natural and contain flaws.
Heat Resistance: Diamonds are much more resistant to heat, whereas if cubic zirconia is exposed to high heat, it can shatter.
Price: Cubic zirconia is generally much less expensive for sames sized stones.

Ring Buying Tips, Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:04:00 +0000

Rings are considered a symbol of friendship, but particularly love in nowadays. Ring especially for engagements and marriages. Different styles of the rings match different fingers. Ring which is worn on the index finger should be stereoscopic. The style can be a little exaggerated and material does not need to be on top grade.These rings are made of the genuine freshwater pearls and 925 sterling silver. All of them are plated with 18k white gold to prevent from trashing. CZ diamonds in them are shining and are sufficient to attract people’s attention. People will feel you are so bright and independent after you wear these freshwater pearl rings. It is better to choose some formal and positive style rings to wear on middle finger. Rings should be looked a bit heavy.

This ring is made of 14k solid yellow gold with CZ diamonds. The pearl is 8-9mm AAA round pearl. This ring worn on the middle finger is good for the inspiration be emerged and you will become more attractive.

The following freshwater pearl ring will be suitable to wear on the ring finger. Because it is traditional and pretty. The heart shaped style can be considered as a symbol of your love. 14k yellow gold can be kept as a long time increasing value and real diamonds mean eternal.

All About Diamond

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 05:32:00 +0000

Diamond
Diamond is a colourless exceptionally hard mineral (but often tinted yellow, orange, blue, brown, or black by impurities), found in certain igneous rocks esp. the kimberlites of South Africa. It is used as a gemstone, as anabrasive, and on the working edges of cutting tools.
Cut
Cut enables a diamond to make the best use of light. A well cut diamond is the work of a master diamond cutter. When cut to good proportions, a diamond will handle light better resulting in more brilliance.
A well proportioned diamond occurs when light enters through the crown to be reflected from one facet to another and then dispersed through the top of the stone.
If the diamond is cut too deep, some of the light entering the diamond is reflected and escapes through the pavilion.
If the diamond is cut too shallow, some of the light entering the diamond escapes through the pavilion before it can be reflected.
Cutting Grades
Ideal ----Diamonds cut to Ideal proportions. Maximum beauty is yielded with these proportions.
Excellent ---- Diamonds cut just outside of Ideal proportions
Very Good-- Diamonds cut just somewhat outside of ideal proportions
Good --- Diamonds cut noticeably outside ideal proportions but above average.
Fair---- Diamonds cut below average proportions with noticeably reduced brilliance and cutting flaws to the untrained eye.
Poor--- Diamonds cut well below average proportions with distinctively reduced brilliance and noticeable cutting irregularities to the untrained eye.
Colour
Diamond is a colourless exceptionally hard mineral (but often tinted yellow, orange, blue, brown, or black by impurities), found in certain igneous rocks esp. the kimberlites of South Africa. It is used as a gemstone, as anabrasive, and on the working edges of cutting tools.
ClarityIt is the extent to which a diamond is free of any inclusions.
FL (Flawless)
Flawless diamonds show no inclusions or blemishes of any sort when examined by a skilled grader under 10X magnification.
IF (internally Flawless)
Internally Flawless diamonds show no inclusions and only insignificant blemishes of when examined by a skilled grader under 10X magnification.
VVS1-VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included)
VVS Diamonds contain minute inclusions that are difficult for even a skilled grader to see under 10X magnification.
VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included)
VS stones contain minor inclusions ranging from difficult (VS1) to some what easy (VS2) for a trained grader to see under 10X magnification.
SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included)
SI stones contain noticeable inclusions which are easy (SI1) or very easy (SI2) for a trained grader to see under 10X magnification.
I1-I2-I3 (Imperfect)
I-grade diamonds contain inclusions that
(a) are obvious to a trained grader under 10X Magnification
(b) can be seen face-up with unaided eye
(c) seriously affect the stone`s potential durability
(d) are so numerous they affect transparency and brilliance
Carat
It is the measurement with which diamonds and other precious and semi-precious stones are measured by. One Carat is divided into 100 points. (i.e., 75 points equals to 0.75cts). As the carat weight of a diamond increases, so does the rarity and value of a diamond when compared to a diamond of same cut, colour and clarity. Carat size alone does not represent the total beauty and value if it lacks a high colour, high clarity or brilliance.

See also:Most Expensive Diamond Jewelry in the World

Gemstone Hardness

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 03:28:00 +0000

About The Measurement System
Gemstone hardness is measured on the Mohs scale. This is a relative scale so you can understand which gems are harder than others. The Mohs scale is not proportional. For example, a gemstone with hardness of 6 is not twice as hard as one that is hardness 3. However, you can tell how easily a gems will be scratched. For example, this system is great for telling which gems will scratch other gemstone jewelry.
Mohs Hardness Scale
Here is a chart from hardest to softest of the most common gemstones used in jewelry. Some stones have a range so this chart is approximate in those cases.
Hardness ---- Gemstone
10 ------------ Diamond
9 ------------- Ruby, Sapphire
8.5 ----------- Alexandrite, CZ
8 ------------- Topaz, Spinel
7.5 ----------- Aquamarine, Emerald, Garnet, Tourmaline
7 ------------- Amethyst, Citrine, Iolite, Quartz
6.5 ----------- Peridot, Tanzanite, Zircon
6 ------------- Moonstone
5.5 ----------- Opal, Lapis
5 ------------- Apatite, Obsidian
4 ------------- Flourite, Malachite, Platinum
3 ------------- Coral, Pearl
2.5 ----------- Amber, Gold, Silver
What Does The Mohs Scale Tell You
Besides telling you how easy a stone scratches, it tells you how brittle a stone is and how fragile a stone is. Often soft stones should not be used in rings as they will be damaged too easily. Note that gold, silver and platinum are softer than most gemstones and as such can easily be scratched. More info here

Expensive ipod Supreme From Stuart Hughes - $233,000

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 06:32:00 +0000

Frank Lampard just came out with his signature range of Gold iPod Touch in support of cancer victims and this time we have news of another gold iPod. UK based designer Katherine Hughes is back this time with the iPod Supreme which is being claimed to be the most expensive iPod Touch around at the time.
The iPod Supreme would certainly prove to be the most elusive iPod for quite some time because only three pieces of the model have been created. Each unit is adorned 149gms of 22 carat gold giving it the appearance of a sleek bar of pure gold. On the back case is the Apple logo done up in 53 diamondsand the outer section of the iPod is further splattered with 300 more diamonds.
The main navigation has also been pimped up with a pink diamond of 2.1 carat and a dozen more diamonds. The iPod Supreme is worth $233,000 and is available only from Stuart Hughes. The world’s most expensive iPod will come in a white lacquered wood box, the insides of which has been upholstered with Porsche Nappa leather.

Orange Gems-Fire Opal, Mandarin Garnet

noreply@blogger.com (Sudha) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:38:00 +0000

Orange is the color of power. It is one of the powerful healing colors used widely. The sight of an orange color stimulates your brain to crave for food. It stimulates creativity and enthusiasm. The color orange represents endurance and vitality. Orange gem stones has the same characteristics with the red gems, only gentler and more creative. Jewelries with orange gems are worn by professionals to promote personality and power. It is a great help for people who want to boost their self-esteem. Orange gemstones stimulate mental quickness and creativity. Here are some of the most beautiful flame colored stones.
Fire Opal
The fire opal is the most unique one. Admired by its fiery orange color that symbolizes fervent love during the ancient times. The fire opal is a powerful gem that bears a very vibrant orange color. It has a fiery warm glow that attracts a lot of gem enthusiasts all over the world. This orange stone can never be underrated. Like its opal cousins, it containa silicic acid with a high content of water in it. It was named for its radiating warm orange color that has a hardness of 6 to 6.5. fire opal is among the most sensitive stones that need protective setting, most especially when it is worn as a ring. Fire opals are not at all similar to one another. They are categorized depending on its quality when cut. People who are not really that enthusiastic about energy gemstones will dramatically have a feeling of warmth at the sight of a fire opal. In gemstone therapies, fire opals are regarded as the gem stones for people who want to work on a particular personality aspect. As opposed to its name, fire opal has a low tolerance to heat and it has a very poor resistance to alkaline solution, acids and sharp objects. A very unfavorable condition can cause the opal to surrender and breathe out all its moisture until there’s nothing left; this can make the opal cracked and cloudy. Thus, if you have a jewelry that has an opal, never expose it to intense and direct sunlight. All the more, fire opal rings are often favorite jewelry.
Mandarin Garnet
Just like the fiery comets hanging above the gloomy evening sky, mandarin garnet stones shine brightly especially during the night. It first appeared in the gem trade some years ago. Gemstone lovers and jewellers agrees that the high brilliance and magnificent color of this orange stone is very unique from all others. Mandarin garnets originated in Africa, particularly in the north-west Namibia. Within a short time period, this brilliant gemstone flourished in the world of international jewelry industry. With its radiant orange color that sometimes turn in slight brown, mandarin garnets are listed among the most admired gemstones on earth. Its color speaks much of energy and enthusiasm. A person who displays a jewelry with an orange gem such as mandarin garnet is not afraid of getting too much attention, thus stimulating a great amount of confidence that emanates beauty and creativity. Undoubtedly, it is a stone chosen mostly by extroverts. Aside from its brilliant color, mandarin garnets also have some other good qualities to be proud of. The stone is relatively hard which is perfect for any kind of jewelry. It sparkles with utter vivacity. This is a very rare stone that’s hunted by many gem stone collectors who can’t resist it’s fiery beauty. More info here