Jewellery

7 things you didn’t know about diamonds

Diamonds are a man’s best friend as they are known for their alluring beauty and shine. Many jewelry pieces and accessories are being encrusted with diamonds at a higher rate to increase their value and enhance their appearance. This desirable precious stone has many interesting facts regarding its nature and care, that are less known among many people. The following list of seven facts will help you gain more knowledge on diamonds. 

1. Different Types of Clarity

Diamonds are available in different types of clarity that affect the shine and appearance of each stone. The clarity of each gem is graded against a standardized Gemological Institute of America (GIA) scale that is divided into eleven categories. The difference between each clarity lies in the flaws that each diamond retains upon being manufactured and are indicated by using the word “Included.” 

These are represented as I, SI, VS I, or FL among many others where the letter combinations stand for Included diamonds (I), Slightly Included (SI), Very Slightly Included (VS I) to Flawless (FL) gradations. 

The “SI” category for example, indicates that the diamond has fewer flaws as compared to “I” that has many flaws included within the stone. 

This will impact its luster and make it appear cloudier in comparison to a “FL” category diamond. A certification that guarantees such clarity is given along with the purchase of every product where the diamonds have been inserted.

2. Diversity in Colors

Diamonds come with slight color variations and are also graded by the GIA scale. According to the GIA scale that ranges from colorless to light color, the grades “G” or “H” represents white. With a lower clarity, a diamond is expected to be cloudier in appearance and therefore looks less clear. A yellow tinge is common among diamonds that have nitrogen present in their structure besides the usual carbon element. A blue tinge is rare but can be found in diamonds that have boron included. The rarest color is red and is found in very few numbers around the world. 

3. Variety in Cuts

For an optimal look and appearance there are many cuts given to diamonds, depending on their weight and size. The cuts mainly include round, princess, heart, cushion, emerald, asscher, marquise, oval, radiant or pear shapes. Depending on the design of your jewelry piece, the appropriate cut is chosen to bring out the most in your piece and give it a complete look.

4. Measurement

Each diamond is weighed in the measurement known as carats where a bigger number indicates a larger diamond. Each carat in terms of metric weight is equal to 200 milligrams. In larger carat diamonds, the clarity and cut play a greater role in impacting its appearance as these factors can completely transform the look of the gem. 

5. Creation

Although each diamond is customized depending on the design where it is to be used, raw diamonds by themselves are created and found in nature. They are mined from famous locations throughout the world, such as Russia, Australia, Canada and India, where they are found in abundance. It takes more than a million years for the geological process of earth to apply enough heat and pressure to create this beautiful stone, which is why they are so precious.

6. Possible Applications 

Diamonds are used in a variety of jewelry items and accessories such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and watches among many others. Many companies source their diamonds to bespoke jewelry makers to have them do any customization and personalization on the basis of their customers’ needs and wants. When it comes to watches in particular, diamonds are a popular specification added on to the dial, bezel as well as the straps and clasp of a luxury watch.

7. Specific Care

The GIA recommends certain practices to retain the shine of your diamonds for a long time. To clean any grease or dirt that your diamond might have built up over its wear, use a soft bristled toothbrush with mild dish soap and water. A lot of care must be taken when handling diamonds as they can get scratches on their surface which can reduce their shine.

A microfiber cloth can be used to dry and wipe the diamond to keep it as good as new. Any harsh chemicals and cleaning solutions must be avoided at all costs, as they can wear down the surface of the diamond and cause damage. If you intend to use any ultrasonic cleaners, ensure you proceed with extra caution. 

By learning these seven essential facts about diamonds, you can make a purchase that meets your specific desires and needs. Be sure to ask your bespoke watch or jewelry specialist about these factors as you start individualizing or designing products and be well informed about your custom-made watches or jewelries.

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