Monday, September 20, 2010

Fine Jewelry: Reasons Why Women Admire Them

Fine jewelry has played important roles that has been well document in the pages of history. Since the ancient periods, humans have been documented to have worn articles of jewelry to enhance their appearance. Beginning in the old stone age 25,000 years ago, men and women have collected things, from animal teeth, shells and bones to pebbles and stones, drilled holes in them and wore them on their bodies. However, women are more adept to wear jewelry pieces because of the many purposes they hold.

In a recent study facilitated by a lifestyle magazine, it was found out that 95 out of 100 surveyed female responds are more disposed to shop for fine jewelry pieces than any other items of accessory. This study, though not extensive, profoundly speaks of how much women admire jewelry. Probably by now you are asking: "what is it with jewelry that women really love?- Accordingly, women love jewelry for a number of reasons.

To start with, jewelry of all kinds is a crucial additive that intensify the underlying concept of dressing and artistic display. They stand as important components of fashion and style as they provide a glint of lavishness to the wardrobes worn by women. Hair dresses adorned with loose diamonds could make the hair glimmer, brooches and pins apparently make a dull looking office suit into a livelier outfit. Jewelry pieces worn on different parts of the body such as bracelets, rings, earrings and necklaces create a focal point that hides aesthetic flaws of women.

Other than accessorizing, articles of jewelry are also utilized to define the social status of women in the society. Back in the ancient times they were determining factors of what positions women hold in the community--with slaves using beads and upper echelons using metallic jewelry pieces accented with gemstones such as loose diamonds. Even though this purpose of diamonds is still evident today, with rich and famous people using jewelry to define their social positions, it is not as extensive as that from the past.

Items of fine jewelry are also revered by women for their rich symbolism as well as spiritual and health value. Women from India have since been using the "tika- which looks like a chandelier earring that they wear at the end of their hair with the pendant suspended at the exact center of their foreheads to represent preservation of their spirits. Nose rings on the other hand is said to enhance sexual reflexes, while necklaces, which are often worn close to the heart are identified as pieces that work on emotions and attract or strengthen love. Charm bracelets are utilized to harness luck, while bangles are signs of creativity and the sun's potent energy. Gemstones of all sorts have been used to cure different health conditions with diamonds being used to induce clarity and jade to enhance relaxation among others.

Of course, jewelry pieces profess and communicate different stories, which is why many women appreciate them. They could tell tales of love, friendship, celebration, welcoming and even personal epiphany. They speak of relationships with spouses and better halves as seen from the use of wedding and engagement rings embellished with round brilliant cut diamonds; friendships through the token of friendship rings and bands as well as families with the use of heirlooms that are bequeathed from one family member to the other. Overall, jewelry whether big or small, cheap or expensive tells something about the characters of women that sometimes words could not define.

Fine jewelry pieces have long been adored by women because of the many purposes they hold. Loose diamonds for instance that have round brilliant cut are often used to accentuate wedding and engagement rings used to encompass undying love and devotion. Necklaces, bracelets and earrings are worn for artistic display as well as to improve the appearance of clothes, improve health and define social status among others.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Engagement Rings: How To Find Quality Diamond Rings

Diamonds can last forever. Loose diamonds are well-regarded for their astounding and unparalleled beauty.These precious gems are meant to remain elegant as ever even after a long time.It has become a universal belief in almost all cultures across the world that diamonds are perfect for engagement rings since these gems epitomize eternity. Furthermore, aside from being a symbol of eternal love, diamond rings are status symbols. What made them very special is their expensive cost and the value they currently hold, and as a result, diamonds have become a luxury for many people.

Not too many people have the financial capacity to afford diamond rings. This one big reason why diamond engagement rings are great for surprising your soon to be wife and loved ones.As a representation of your endless and unequaled love, it would be a great idea if you would surprise your bride to be with a diamond engagement ring. A diamond engagement ring can definitely make your marriage proposal more extraordinary and remarkable one, both for you and your bride to be.

However, before you go on with your plan of getting a diamond ring for your proposal, it would be better if you will educate yourself first with what to look for in diamond jewelry.Since diamonds are all but expensive commodities; it is recommended that you acquaint yourself with the ways on how to find quality diamonds. Getting the essential education and guidance in finding the right type of diamond jewelry can help you make best use of the huge amount of money you are about to spend. Moreover, it can help you in determining the appropriate type of diamond jewelry that can effectively suit your bride's style and preference.

Buying a diamond ring to surprise your bride to be is a task tailored for you. In choosing a diamond engagement ring, it is important to bear in mind several factors such as the ring size, the style and the type of metal. The first thing to look for is the ring size so as to make sure that your effort and the money you spent will not go into waste. You have to be sure that the diamond ring you are about to purchase can fit perfectly into the ring finger of your bride to be.In doing this, you have to think of ways on how to find the ring size of your future wife or you can just tell the jeweler about her body type and size.

The style of the ring is also an important factor in finding the right type of diamond jewelry. Diamond rings are sold in varying cuts, styles and colors.Classic solitaire diamonds are the most in-demand while colored diamonds are among the most fashionable and unique. The tiffany style is recommended for a classic look while the invisible style can imbibe a more modern and current appeal.In addition, your choice of ring should be based on the personality of your bride to be. It would also be perfect if the diamond is certified by diamond grading experts.

One of the crucial things to bear in mind in buying a diamond ring is the type of metal present.You can select from a wide array of metals available in the market such as yellow, white gold and platinum.In selecting the metal type of the ring, you have to consider your budget and the type of diamond that will be accompanied by the metal. White gold and platinum metals are the best choices for colored diamonds.

Diamonds symbolize eternity which makes them fit perfectly in engagement rings. Diamond rings including loose diamonds have become a luxury for many people and a symbol of an undying and unparalleled love. Diamond engagement rings are perfect for surprising a loved one and for marriage proposals. In choosing a diamond engagement ring, it is important to bear in mind several factors such as the ring size, the style, the type of metal and the required certifications.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Where To Buy Fine Diamond Jewelry That Would Give You A Run For Your Money

In buying fine diamond jewelry, not only do you have to consider the four C's but also the place where you intend to make your purchase. It is a general knowledge that diamonds, regardless if loose or incorporated on any jewelry, could cost an arm and a leg. This is why they are probably among the most important purchases that you will make in your life. By taking these things into account, it would be wise to become cautious about the store or stores where you would embark your purchase so that you would not bemoan your decision in the future.

There are various ways in order for you to acquire diamonds. The first thing that you could do is to go online and search for online jewelry shops that offer fine diamond jewelry. Buying online is a practical means to perform the task of looking for prospective diamond jewelry items that are inexpensive but high in quality without getting exhausted. Online jewelry shops usually offer a whole range of diamond jewelry designs from across the globe, which means you have many options to choose from.

One advantage of purchasing from online jewelry stores is that you could time and energy--with just a click of your finger, even while you're at home or in the office, you could instantly make your purchases from a whole range of selections and you also engage in online jewelry auctions that are usually run by professional jewelers. Likewise, online jewelry shops offer more competitively priced diamonds, regardless if they are round brilliant or oval in cut, since they don't incur additional costs on their products, except for taxes and shipping fees, in order to cover their overhead expenses as they do not have physical stores to run that usually require electricity bills and employee salaries. The main disadvantage with online shopping however could be associated to the abundance of jewelry choices which often weaken the ability of consumers to rationally assess the quality and price the jewelry pieces. Nevertheless, since the internet permits the operation of anonymous individuals and businesses, there are many jewelry scammers who are waiting to pounce on naive jewelry buyers who make the wrong move.

If you wish to safeguard the integrity of your purchase, the best option you have is to personally visit the local jewelry stores in your area. The good thing about this option is that you could personally assess the quality and value of the round brilliant diamonds or any jewelry you are to purchase. Professional jewelers could also assist you if you have questions, which would help you in making your purchasing decisions. The major problems affiliated with this option could be found on product pricing; frequently, physical jewelry stores incur additional costs or markups on their products in order to cover their overhead expenses that are often acquired from electricity bills and employee salaries, and there are limited jewelry selections which could be an issue if you're looking for a specific kind of jewelry.

Meanwhile, if your are searching for inexpensive pieces, rare jewelry like oval diamonds from specific periods, or used diamonds, you may try your hands on specialty stores, thrift shops as well as pawnshops. If you intend to follow this option, it is essential that you are knowledgeable about diamond jewelry to make appropriate purchases. You must also be patient enough to perform the task of searching as these stores usually do not hold such forms of valuable items. However, if luck is on your side, you might find yourself owning rare diamond jewelry, though this case rarely happens.

When you're in the market for a piece of fine diamond jewelry, it pays to shop around and make comparisons to be able to make the right purchase. If you're looking at buying online, be sure to do some research about the stores where you wish to buy to make sure if they are legitimate or not; go over the reputation of these online jewelry shops and study their return and refund policies. As for physical jewelry stores, always consider comparing prices, services and the quality of their products. If you are not familiar with the jewelry stores around your area, you could ask for the recommendations of friends and family members to ensure that your money won't just go down the drain.

Fine diamond jewelry is perhaps one of the most important purchases you could make in. To make sure that you won't go wrong with your decision, it is advisable to check the store options you have at hand. You could buy your round brilliant diamonds online to save money and time. However, if you want to make sure about the quality of your oval diamonds personal visit with your local jewelry store would permit you to appraise them.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Diamond Ring: The Perfect Keepsake

As it has been said, diamonds are a girl's best friend. Every woman would love to have a pair or two of this precious stone in their possession. Perhaps the high value given to such stone can be credited to its timeless beauty and appeal. Likewise, it is also contemplated as one of the best stones to be incorporated in any jewelry design.

It is noteworthy that the use of diamonds as jewelries has been around for centuries. However, more than any other point in history, the current use of these gems has significantly increased tenfold. Other than being a representation of fame and power, the use of diamond is not limited to jewelry making. They also function as cutting tools, a means to transmit sounds, various optical applications, and as a special coating for airplane cockpit windows, which officially makes it a multi-million dollar industry.

Although such precious stone have various uses, it cannot be denied that it remains as the main ingredient for making any jewelry appear elegant and truly expensive. Many people are now purchasing diamonds and jewelries with these stones because they are good investments. The investment worth of these objects can be accounted to their increasing value. Likewise, they also serve as heirloom pieces that maintain the connection of one family generation to another.

Aside from their investment value, such gemstones are also priceless keepsakes during important events. For instance, during engagements diamond encrusted rings are the most common gifts that a woman can receive from her man. Considering that an engagement is one of the most important traditions, many men prefer giving bands that would represent their true emotions. What adds to the worth of these diamond encrusted bands are their physical durability that could simply last for a lifetime.

Prior to purchasing such diamond mounted rings however, it is important to ensure that you are buying a high-quality diamond and not just those that can be bought anywhere. A diamond can be mistaken with cubic zirconiums and other similar looking stones, making it hard to buy such gem if you have no background about it. By taking this into consideration, it is always best to buy in reputable stores to ensure your that what you are paying is the real ones. It is also worth knowing that the value of a diamond can be identified based from the so called 4Cs or color, clarity, cut and carat.

With all the fake ones streaming in the market, it is helpful to know what you are about to get when you purchase a diamond ring. There are wide selections of diamond bands in the market; as such it pays to know everything about the product you are interested in. At the end of the day, having the right band would represent the purity of your vows for each other. Hence, it is important to get a hold of something real that will remind you in the long run of that long and lasting oneness.

Diamonds are considered as the most precious stones in the world. They are usually mounted in jewelries such as rings and necklaces to make these pieces more elegant and expensive. Today, it is can be observed that a diamond ring is the most common keepsake during engagements. Such preference lays on the fact that such band, aside from being expensive, is physically durable that makes it last for a lifetime.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Loose Diamonds: What Cut Makes The Best Gift

For most people, the only time they look for diamonds is when they want wedding or engagement rings. The smart way to go about this is to get loose diamonds first and have them set later. You can inspect them for defects better, and improve your chances of a good deal. However, you need to be cautious when buying. It's easy to make mistakes and give too much, or end up with an inferior diamond.

When looking at loose diamonds, you need to verify the diamond's value. You'll want to study each one for the four C's; carat weight, cut, clarity and color. But keep in mind that each diamond is unique, and it's unlikely for a single diamond to get two separate assessments with identical results. Ultimately, the value of a diamond is subjective, so you shouldn't be too engrossed looking for it's exact value.

The most prominent diamond cut is the round brilliant cut. Thanks to the work of Marcel Tolkowsky, the proportions needed to get the most brilliance and fire out of a diamond were determined and popularized. Further innovations streamlined Tolkowsky's measurements to optimize diamond's potential for brilliance.

The round brilliant cut is also the established favorite cut. On the other hand, fancy cuts become popular based on prevailing fashions. Since people are interested in sparkle right now, the heart, oval, and pear cuts are popular. However, the quality and value of a diamond relies on other factors. You can easily get a high value diamond of any cut - or low value, if you buy carelessly.

So buy a diamond jewelry gift in the cut you really want. It may be a shape that catches you or your significant other's fancy, or one that evokes special memories or feelings within you. If all you want is a large diamond, and you don't mind scratches, it's easy to get one for cheap. But even if you are buying cheap, you have to be careful with your purchases to avoid getting gypped.

When it comes time to set your loose diamond, it's sound to have it done by the same people who sold it to you. If you bring it to another jeweler, they won't want to be held accountable for any damage the diamond may acquire during setting. If the seller won't guarantee their own diamonds, just forget them and look for a seller who does.

For most people, the only time they buy diamonds is to get engagement and wedding rings. The smart way to go about this is to find loose diamonds first and have them set later. The round brilliant cut is the perennial favorite diamond cut. The popularity of fancy cuts are dependent on prevailing trends. However, the quality and value of a diamond is dependent on other factors. So buy a diamond jewelry gift with the cut you prefer.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Fine Jewelry: Common Types, Their Designs And Functions

The visual appeal of fine jewelry has never ceased to arrest our interest. As a matter of fact, jewelry pieces were once considered as the basis of social status especially during the ancient times. These pieces have played significant roles in shaping some of the most important traditions we know of. From necklaces and earrings, to rings and bracelets, these articles have long provided humans with personal satisfaction that no other objects could provide.

Fine jewelry pieces have different types and finishes. Some are utilized as personal ornamentation, while others stand as symbolic tokens given during special occasions. There are also articles of jewelry that are simple in design and inexpensive, while there are also pieces that are expensive due to the materials used to construct them. Some of the most popular and commonly used pieces would be discussed here to provide further understanding about their qualities and uses. Rings are probably the most common forms of jewelry known to man. They usually come in differing varieties, the most common of which are in plain cylindrical bands adorned with gemstones like diamond heart or round cuts, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings are used for differing purposes but usually they serve as symbolic tokens given during special events like betrothals and weddings, or just to highlight one's fingers. As for signet rings, these hoops are customized to carry the emblems of fraternal orders or insignias of some organizations and are worn by the members of such organizations.

Another type of jewelry is the necklace, which is intended designed to be worn around the neck. Basically, there are four general forms of necklaces: close fitting collar band with stones or beads, chain necklace with a single pendant, row of beads that are usually graduated in size held by a wire or chain, and several chains or strings of differing lengths worn on top of each other. Necklaces can be made of different precious metals, gemstones, raw materials or a combination of these items, and are commonly used together with pendants that are made of precious stones; the most of popular of which is the diamond heart pendant. In order to highlight necklaces, they are worn with tops or dresses that have low necklines, as this clothing finish diverts the attention of people towards the neck where the said jewelry is hanged.

Meanwhile, earrings are articles of jewelry used for the ears that could be set against the earlobes or are left as dangling drops. The most favorite form of earrings set against the earlobe is the pair of pearls, while popular hanging drops are the ones referred to as chandelier earrings. Traditionally, wearing earrings demands for ear piercings because the practice of wearing this jewelry in the past was a barbarous custom. Currently, earrings can be worn either through piercing the ears or just by clipping the said jewelry.

The bracelet is another type of fine jewelry, worn on the arm. Such large piece of ring-like jewelry can be in the form of closed band, spiral coil, open on one side, closed with clasp as well as flexible rings formed as links. Other than the aforementioned pieces, there are other types of jewelry that one may encounter in the market including pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons to name a few. Overall, jewelry pieces comes in differing quality, sizes, design, price as well as functions; it is up to the owner where and when he or she intend to use these precious materials to gain satisfaction.

In creating fine jewelry articles, metals, gemstones, coins as well as other materials are utilized though they are commonly set into precious metals, accentuated with gemstones like diamond heart. Aside from their ornamental purpose, jewelry pieces have long been used throughout history as symbolic tokens given during occasions especially during weddings and betrothals. They were also used to denote power and status in many societies.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond rings: A beautiful piece of investment

It is normal for people with extra money to invest their funds in assets that would allow their money to grow.Instead of keeping it in the bank, they would use their funds to buy land, stocks or condominium units which can reap them additional interest in the long run.

On the other hand, other people would skip investing on assets like these and would rather spend on things that would cater more to their interests.And what else can cater to their interest but their hobbies which can be a more delightful way to spend their extra cash.

There are a number of hobby collectibles that can be considered a reasonable investment just like toys, fine jewelry and luxury cars which gain value over time.But of course not all of them appreciate in value, only a selected type of toys or jewelry like diamond rings can really gain vale over time.

Some toys when kept in mint condition or intact in their boxes can sell at ten to twenty times its original value as time goes by.Fine jewelry is also a good choice for a luxury investment.Diamond rings can only get more expensive so as other jewelry decorated with diamonds.

Another good thing with buying diamond rings or necklaces is the fact that you can readily share this as a very meaningful gift for a loved one.Diamond jewelry pretty much last for a very long time so it can even be a better way to invest extra cash compared to other assets that can deteriorate due to wear and tear over the years.

So for those ready to take the next step, it is a wise thing to invest excess money in assets that can deliver the planned results as the years go by.Investing does not necessarily have to be boring because there are numerous ways money can grow over the years but at the same time address your wants and interests like toy and jewelry collecting.

While some people spend on assets like condominium units or land to make their money grow, others choose to invest on their hobbies and interests instead. Some like fine spending on fine jewelry or expensive cars or rare toys. This is a smart investment because like diamond rings or rare toys, they can only get pricier as the years go by.

-Lorraine Jacobs