Anjolee
The Art of Jewelry™- Changing the way America buys jewelry!
Anjolee
The Art of Jewelry™- Changing the way America buys jewelry!
1/2/2008 9:47:13 AM By Carolyn Tan, WeddingChannel.com found at postbulletin.com
Well, simulated diamonds have come a long way since the cubic zirconia age. Now you can get high-quality simulated gemstones that are hand-cut like natural diamonds. They're created the same way as natural diamonds -- almost. They are born in a laboratory and possess the same facets and look of a mined diamond. They are so brilliant and beautiful that even "Hollywood" has been snapping them up. Today, more and more couples are choosing them for their engagement rings and wedding jewelry.
When shopping for your gemstone, you need to be careful because not all simulated diamonds are created equal. Research and shop around just like you would for a natural diamond. Here are some guidelines to get you started.
1. There are three primary grades of simulated diamonds -- high, medium, and low. Low-quality replicas are the cubic zirconias you find in flimsy jewelry, while medium-quality simulants are the ones you see on television shopping channels. However, for engagement ring rocks, don't settle on anything less than a simulated diamond of the highest quality. These come hand-cut and faceted like natural diamonds. The best stones can be found in designer rings and are set in solid gold or platinum.
2. When choosing a jeweler, one of the best places to start is online. You can get a feel for what kinds of cuts and shapes are available and see how simulated diamonds compare with natural diamonds. You also want to find a company with knowledgeable and skilled craftsmen. When you find a retailer you like, it's important to do a background check with the Better Business Bureau before making any purchases.
3. Your high-quality simulated diamonds should have many of the same features of a natural diamond. Be on the lookout for these key characteristics:
• Hand-cut. By searching for a diamond from this technique, you'll get the same fire, brilliance, and luster as a mined diamond cut with ideal proportions.
• Durability. Like a natural diamond, they should have the ability to cut glass. High-quality simulated diamonds are that strong. Their hardness rating on a Mohe scale is just below a natural diamond (which is the hardest stone on the planet).
• Convincing eye-appeal. The finest simulated sparklers look like genuine diamonds with a D-E color grade (white) and flawless clarity. Your friends shouldn't be able to tell the difference, and some jewelers may even be fooled!
4. Setting counts just as much as the diamond itself. You wouldn't set a genuine diamond in just any old lightweight mounting, would you? Your dream engagement ring should be treated the same way.
5. Make sure you get a lifetime-guarantee certificate. Your retailer should offer a lifetime warranty so that your diamond will be free of any internal issues -- such as color, fire, and luster -- that can distract from the stones.
6. Purchase simulated diamonds from a company that has natural diamond experience. They know what a diamond should look like. If your heart is set on a natural diamond, there's no reason to postpone your engagement. Purchasing a simulated diamond gives you the opportunity to trade your simulated stone for a natural one. Some firms will even offer you full credit on the original purchase too!
Web links
 | Lab diamonds |
| Bidz jewelry auctions |
| The Wedding Channel |