subject: Diamond Shoppers' Guide: The Difference Between Popular Styles [print this page] In today's world, nothing speaks of marriage the way a diamond ring cries out. Traditionally worn on the third finger of the left hand, the diamond engagement ring runs from the finger and straight to the heart.
The tradition was first introduced in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy. The tradition of wearing it on the third finger of the left hand actually dates back to early Egyptians, who labeled the vein following that path the Vena Amors or the vein of love.
How much today's groom wants to spend on a ring varies with his salary. The most important part of the tradition is finding a ring that shows the bride the thought and love involved in the selection.
Settings
Today's rings are set in a variety of materials. Some brides shy away from gold in favor of silver. Other brides are the opposite and prefer gold. But even with gold, there are varying purities to consider.
Sterling silver has been used for everything from medical instruments to musical instruments. For a less expensive ring, consider a diamond ring set in sterling silver. Sterling silver is actually 99.9 percent pure and is often too soft to make functional objects. But when combined with copper, which gives it strength, silver can be a smart choice for a relatively inexpensive ring. The setting or band can be made into a fine filigree design or a solid band. When well polished, silver can mimic platinum and set off a beautiful diamond.
24 karat gold is considered pure gold, but few rings are actually 24 karat gold. The karat weight of gold depends on how much alloy is mixed with the gold. For example, 10 karat gold has 10 parts gold to 14 parts alloy. And 14 karat gold is 14 parts gold to 10 parts alloy. Therefore, 18 karat gold is 18 parts gold to 6 parts alloy. It all must add up to 24 karats of material.
When it comes to picking a setting for your engagement ring, you will find settings in 10K, 14K and 18K gold. However, a setting that is 24 karat gold is rare indeed.
Diamonds
Colored diamonds are relatively new to the market. You will find black, brown, yellow and even pink diamonds. Most brides will likely opt for a white diamond for their engagement ring, but the color selections are there for those who want something different.
When selecting a colored diamond, you will want to consider its hue. If you are a flashy person, then by all means go with something bright like yellow or pink. But if you prefer the understated, a chocolate diamond or a soft blue diamond will do.
There are standards and levels of quality to consider when purchasing a colored diamond. For example, what is the color saturation of the stone? Is it even throughout? Is it rich? Is it clear or smoky? The more the stone meets those considerations, the pricier it will be. One point to consider, however, is that the brighter hues will hide the flaws of the stone.
White diamonds remain the most popular choice for engagement rings. When selecting a diamond ring, you need consider the stone's shape, cut, color, clarity and carats.
If it is a solitary stone, the "shape" may be labeled round, emerald, princess, heart, square or marquis shaped. Brides tend to have a preference toward shapes. If you are surprising your intended with an engagement ring, check out her other rings to see what shape she favors.
The term "cut" does not refer to the stone's shape, but instead to the symmetry, proportion and polish of the diamond. A good cut will ensure the diamond shines to the best of its ability. A poor cut will mean it is less luminous. A good cut can make or break a diamond.
"Color" refers to the actual color of the stone ranging from clear being the best to yellow being the worst.
"Clarity" is judged by how clear the stone is and the presence of any inclusions or flaws. The presence of inclusions will lessen the value of a diamond, because they interfere with the light passing through the stone. A clear stone with no flaws is the best.
"Carat" is the way to measure the actual stone. It should not be confused with gold karat or the quality of the gold. Carat is the way to measure the weight of a diamond. One carat equals 200 milligrams. But just as you cannot judge a person by their weight, you cannot judge a diamond solely on its weight. You must also take into account the distance across the top of the diamond (as measured in millimeters) and the diamond's cut grade.
Take this helpful guide's hints and suggestions into account before you go shopping for a breathtaking diamond.
Diamond Shoppers' Guide: The Difference Between Popular Styles
By: marquisbrooks
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