Cushion Cut Diamonds, Features, Buy Cushion Cut Diamonds, Rings: Brilliant

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Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Diamond Size and Weight Buying Guide

Faulty diamonds.

Many errors that effect the appearance and value of a diamond can occur in cutting. Remember that some diamond’s cutting faults will make a stone more vulnerable to breakage. We recommend avoiding such stones unless they can be protected by the setting.

There are several cutting faults to watch for in round diamonds. First, look carefully for a sloping table or a table that is not almost perfectly perpendicular to the point of culet.

Second, the diamond culet can frequently be the source of a problem. It can be chipped or broken, open or large (almost all modern cut diamonds have culet that come nearly to a point), or it can be missing altogether.
Third, repairs to chipped areas can result in misaligned facets, which destroy the stone’s symmetry.

Sometimes. too, as a result of repair, an extra facet will be formed, often in the crown facets, but also on ot just below the girdle. These extra facets may slightly affect the diamond’s brilliance.

Girdle Faults

The girdle is often the source of faults in a diamond. Bearded or fringed girdles are common. A fringed girdle exhibits small radial cracks penetrating into stone; these can result from a careless or inexperienced cutter. A bearded girdle is similar but not as pronounced a fault and can be easily repaired by re-polishing, with minor loss in diamond weight.
The relative thickness of girdle is very important because it can affect the durability as well as the beauty of the stone. Any girdle can be nicked or chipped in the course of wear, or by careless handling, but if the girdle is too thin it will chip easily. Some chips can be easily removed by re-polishing, with minimal diamond weight loss. If there are numerous chips, the entire girdle can be re-polished. Chips or nicks in the girdle are often hidden under the prongs or concealed by the setting.
If the girdle is too thick, the stone may look smaller because a disproportionate amount of its weight will be in the girdle itself; such stones, for their weight, will be smaller in diameter than other stones of comparable weight.

The gradations of girdle thickness:

Extremely thin

Thin

Medium

Slightly thick

Extremely Thick

The girdle can also be wavy, rough, or entirely, out of round.
A natural may not be a fault. It’s actually a piece of the natural surface of the diamond crystal. In cutting, a cutter may decide to leave part of the “natural” rough surface in order to get as large a diamond as possible from the rough stone. If this natural is no thicker than the thickness of the girdle and does not distort the circumference of the stone, most dealers consider it a minor defect at worst; it it extends into the crown or pavilion of the stone, it is a more serious fault.
Sometimes, if the natural is somewhat large but slightly below the girdle, it will be polished off. This produces an extra facet.

Other Popular shapes

Unlike round diamonds, “fancy” shapes, all shapes other than round, have no set formulas, so evaluating the make of a fancy is more subjective. Table and depth percentage can vary widely among individual stones of the same shape, each producing a beautiful stone. Personal taste also varies with regard to what constitutes the “ideal” for shapes other than round. Nonetheless, there are certain visual indicators of good or poor proportioning, such as the “bow tie” effect, which even the amateur can learn to spot. There are recommended ratios for overall shape and symmetry, but a preferred shape is largely a personal matter. Ranges for what is “acceptable” or “unacceptable” have been developed. As you gain experience looking at specific shapes, you will be able to spot faults, and begin to determine what is within an “acceptable” range. Moderate deviation will not significantly affect the beauty or value of a stone; however, extreme deviations can seriously reduce a stone’s beauty and value.

Cutting faults in popular fancy shapes

One of the most obvious indicators of poor proportioning in fancy shapes is the bow tie, or butterfly effect, a darkened area across the center or widest part of the stone, depending upon the cut. The bow tie is most commonly seen in the pear shape or marquise shape but may exist in any fancy shape diamonds. Virtually all fancy shapes cut today will exhibit some minimal bow tie effect. Nonetheless, the presence or absence of a bow tie is an indicator of proper proportioning. In poorly proportional stones there is a pronounced bow tie; the more pronounced, the poorer the proportioning. The less pronounced the bow tie, the better the proportioning. The degree to which the bow tie is evident is the first indicator of a good or poor make. A diamond with a pronounced bow tie should sell for much less than one without.

As with the brilliant cut diamond, fancy shapes can also be cut too broad or too narrow; and the pavilion can be too deep or too shallow.
Personal taste will always play a role in fancy shapes, some prefer a narrow pear shape, for example, while others might prefer a fatter pear. Whatever the shape you are considering, you must ask yourself whether or not you find the stone exciting. Does it have a pleasing personality? Does it exhibit good brilliance and fire? Is the entire stone brilliant, or are there “dead” spots? Are there any cutting faults that might make it more susceptible to chipping? Then you must make the choice.

New shapes create excitement

Today we can choose from many diamond shapes and diamond cuts, ranging from the classics diamond shapes:

Round,

Oval,

Pear,

Marquise,

Emerald-cut, and

Heart.

To new diamond shapes that appear as cutters continue to experiment with novel looks. Here are some of the most exciting:

Radiant

A rectangular or square brilliant cut, this shape is perfect for the person who likes the shape of an emerald-cut but want more sparkle. The starburst radiant is a variation of the standard radiant, and exhibits a slightly different personality.

Princess

A square brilliant cut which is ideal for bezel and channel settings, or ant setting in which you want the stone to be flush with the mounting. The quadrillion was the first trademarked “princess” and is cut to unique specifications which some believe creates the most beautiful of square brilliant cuts, and which demands a slightly higher price than others of this general types.

144 Facet

This patented cut produces a diamond with 144 facets rather than a diamond with 58 facets, giving it unsurpassed brilliance and fire. An important feature of the 144 Facet is the girdle, which is more resistant to chipping than girdles produced by many other cuts. The 144 Facet is an expensive cut, comparable in cost to an “ideal” make diamond.

Dream a Royal cuts

These cuts are a good choice for anyone who wants a large look on a limited budget. They are “thin” cuts, but unlike “spread” or “swindle” diamonds, which are usually lifeless, extra faceting and precision cutting help to produce unusual brilliance for their depth. A dream cut marquise (or, similarly, the “Duchess”) will look much larger than a traditional marquise of the same weight. These cuts are available in shapes resembling the marquise, pear, and oval.

Trilliant

Popular shape for use as a center stone, or for side stones, this triangular brilliant cut is also a thin cut, giving a large look for it weight. Extra facets and precision cutting produce high brilliance. When flanking either side of another diamond, trilliants produce a much larger diamond look, overall.

In addition to the new cuts discussed above, one of the newest cutting innovations is the brilliant cut baguette, such as the Princette(TM) and Bagillion(TM). They occur in a “straight” and “tapered” shape. These have gained popularity because they have greater brilliance than traditional baguettes. They can be used to flank diamonds or other stone in traditional settings, or used in very contemporary jewelry design with straight, clean lines.

Early cuts enjoy renewed popularity

Interest in antique and period jewelry is growing rapidly and, as it does, the diamonds that adorn them are arousing renewed attention and gaining new respect. The way a diamond is cut is often one of the clues to the age of a piece. Older diamonds can be replaced or re-cut to modern proportions, but replacing or re-cutting stones mounted in antique or period pieces could adversely affect the value of the jewelry. To preserve the integrity of the piece, antique and period jewelry connoisseurs want “original” stones, or, if stones have been replaced, at least stones cut in the manner typical of the period. The market is becoming increasingly strong for diamonds with older cuts, and pieces are also strengthening.

As these early cut diamonds receive more and more attention, a growing number of people are beginning to appreciate them for their distinctive beauty and personality, and for the romance that accompanies them. The romantic element, combined with a cost that is more attractive than new diamonds, is also making them an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings.

Some of the most popular early diamond cuts are: the table cut, the rose cut, the “old-mine” cut, the “old European” cut (Prior to 1919, when America began to emerge as an important diamond cutting center, most diamonds were cut in Europe. Most “Old European” diamonds were cut prior to the first quarter of the 29th century).

Table cut

The table cut illustrate man’s earliest cutting effort. By placing the point of a diamond crystal against a turning wheel that held another diamond, the point could be worn down, creating a squarish, flat surface that resembled a table top. Today we still call the flat facet on the very top of the stone the table facet.

Rose cut

The rose cut is a sixteen century cut, usually with a flat base and facets radiating from the center in multiples of six, creating the appearance of an opening rose-bud. The rose cut appears in round, pear, and oval shapes.

Old-mine cut

The old-mine cut was a precursor to the modern round. This cut had a squarish or “cushion” shape (a rounded square or rectangular) and more facets than today’s modern 58 facet diamond. Proportions followed the diamond crystal, so the crown is higher and pavilion deeper than modern stones. The table is very small, and the culet is very large and easily seen from the top (resembling a “hole” in the diamond). These lack the brilliance of modern stones, but often exhibit tremendous fire. Old-mine cut diamonds are also seen in pear and oval shape.

Old European cut

Appearing in the mid 1800s, the old European cut is similar to the old-mine cut diamonds, but is round rather than squarish, with 58 facets. The crown is higher than modern cuts, but not as high as in the old-mine cut; it has a deep pavilion, but not as deep as old-mines. The culet is still “open’ but smaller than old-mines.

Old cuts can be very beautiful. The intense “fire” exhibited by some old-mine and old-European cut can have tremendous allure. By today’s standards, however, they lack brilliance, and a very large culet may detract from the stone’s beauty.

Are diamonds with old cuts valuable?

Old-mine cut and old-European cut diamonds are normally evaluated by comparison to modern-cut stones. Value is usually determined by estimating the color, clarity, and the weight the stone would retain if it were re-cut to modern proportions.

It is not suggested to re-cut old diamonds if they are in their original mountings. The overall integrity of the piece, and value, would be adversely affected by doing so.

If the setting has no special merit, the decision must be an individual one, based on whether or not the stone appeals to you. As we have said, some older cuts are very lovely, while others may look heavy, dull, or lifeless. An unattractive older cut may have equal, or greater, value because of the improved make. In addition, re-cutting can sometimes improve the clarity grade of an older stone.

A word about re-cutting diamonds.

There are many fine diamond cutters in the United States, New York City is one of the most important diamond cutting centers in the world for top quality diamonds, and many diamonds can be greatly improved by re-cutting. The cost is surprisingly low when one considers the benefit to the stone, and effect of re-cutting on the diamond’s beauty and value (sometimes the clarity grade is also improved).

If you have an old-cut diamond which you don’t care for, or a damaged diamond, your jeweler can consult with a diamond cutter, or refer you to one, to determine whether or not your stone can be improved by re-cutting and, if so, what risks and costs might be involved.

A Knowledgeable jeweler can help you decide whether or not a diamond should be re-cut, make arrangement for you, and help assure you that you have received the same stone back. For your own comfort and security, as well as the cutter’s, we always recommend that prior to having a stone re-cut you obtain a diamond grading report or thorough appraisal so that you have a point of reference when the stone is returned.

To what extent does cutting and proportioning affect value in modern diamonds?

Excellently cut and proportioned stones cost significantly more per carat than those that are not cut well.

Remember: The value of two diamonds with the same weight, color, and clarity can differ dramatically because of differences in cutting.

The article above can be used on your web site or newsletter.

When it is published, May I request that you include my name and resource box (the bio., contact and copyright information that follows the article. I would also appreciate if you could send me an e-mail of notification along with a complimentary copy of publication.

Bijan Aziz is the owner and Web Master for The Jewelry Hut.

http://www.thejewelryhut.com

The best source for fine Diamond, gemstone, and Pearl Jewelry on the Web

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bijan_Aziz

Choosing Your Diamond Shape

Choosing the shape of your diamond jewelry is one of the key
elements in determining the overall appearance of your ring
or other diamond jewelry. There are many shapes and
variations from which to choose, but first off do not
confuse "shape" with "cut". A diamond's shape is just that:
the outward appearance of the stone, whether it is round,
oval etc.; while the cut refers to how the diamond itself is
fashioned, how many facets and so on. Below I'll examine the
various diamond shapes and tell a little about each of them,
in order to help you make that all-important choice.

Round Brilliant Diamonds - By far the most popular,
accounting for more than 75% of diamonds purchased today,
they are also the most expensive. Most coveted as an
engagement ring, they also find their way into earrings and
pendants. Round Brilliant Diamonds are noted for their fire
and brilliance.

Oval Diamonds - A perfectly symmetrical design yields a
large surface area that gives the impression of a much
larger diamond, oval diamonds are favored by women with
smaller hands or shorter fingers, it's shape giving an
elongated look to the hand.

Princess Cut Diamonds - Though in appearance the smallest of
diamonds, a Princess Cut Diamond is basically an inverted
pyramid which puts most of the carat weight near the bottom.
Princess cut diamonds are most often sought as solitaires,
and are a relatively recent shape.

Marquise Diamonds - Another diamond shape that looks larger
than it actually is, the Marquise diamond is elongated with
points on each end, though sometimes altered to a "French
tip" where the end point is excised. A great choice for a
solitaire.

Emerald Cut - Rectangular with corner cuts, this diamond is
also called a step cut, because of the shape that resembles
stair steps. Large, open facets on this diamond make it
imperative to choose a stone of greater clarity and higher
color, as inclusions and weak color are more noticeable in
this cut.

Pear Shape Diamond - Exactly as it says, this diamond is
pear-shaped, or sometimes reminding one of a teardrop. Most
often found on pendants and earrings.

Heart Shaped Diamonds - A brilliant cut, the heart shaped
diamond is a romantic choice that varies from jeweler to
jeweler as it's shape can be greatly influenced by the skill
of whimsy of the gem cutter, as well as variable facet
configurations. Seek out a perfectly symmetrical stone.

Trillion Cut Diamonds - A newcomer, born in the late
seventies, this diamond is a triangle stone with equal
sides. These can make stunning earrings.

Baguette Cut Diamonds - Another step cut diamond shape that
is most frequently employed as side stones. Because it has
few facets, quality and color come into play more here as
imperfections become more visible in these uncomplicated,
though elegant diamonds.

Radiant Diamonds - A square or rectangularly shaped diamond,
the Radiant resembles the emerald shape but has 70 facets,
making it much more brilliant and dazzling than the Emerald
shape.

Asscher Cut Diamonds - A rectangular shaped diamond with high
crown step facets, this shape was patented in 1902 and is
know for it's fire and ability to return light.

Cushion Cut Diamonds - Sometimes referred to as "pillow
cut", this shape was popular in the 1800's. Cut with candle
light in mind, (nothing else available at the time!) the
cushion cut is a rectangular/squarish shape, with more than
a touch of old world elegance about it.

Kite, Trapezoid & Half-Moon diamonds - Lesser know shapes
used mainly for side stones.

Choosing the right diamond shape can be more easily
accomplished with a little information and the help of a
professional jeweler. Here's hoping you find that perfect
diamond!

Keith Thompson is very fond of diamonds, and runs http://www.engagement-ring-deals.info which can help in your search for the perfect diamond engagement ring.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Thompson

Monday, September 7, 2009

Understanding the Different Cuts of Diamonds

Diamonds are hot favorites all over the world not only because of their dazzling beauty, but also because they are so versatile; they look good on anyone and match everything. Diamonds come in many styles and varieties, called cuts. The value of a diamond in terms of price and popularity depends on the various cuts. The more popular cuts are more expensive than the less popular cuts. This is because the cut of the diamond enhances its beauty. So, you can see two diamonds of equal weight but cut differently with a price difference of hundreds of dollars.

The most popular cut in diamonds is the round cut. When diamonds are cut to look like circles they sparkle brightly. A round brilliant cut is one of the most expensive cuts of diamond. Round cut diamonds are very popular on engagement rings because they look beautiful as part of a multi-stone ring or as a solitaire. The round cut diamond looks nice on practically any hand.

The princess cut is of marginal popularity. It looks good as a solitaire or in a three-stone setting with smaller princess cut diamonds on either side of a large diamond. A princess cut looks like a square and can be faceted to sparkle. Rings made with princess cut diamonds tend to make fingers look shorter and stubbier, so they are not the right choice for those with already short fingers. Those with long fingers can wear a princess cut without any hesitation whatsoever.

One of the least expensive of cuts for diamonds is the emerald cut. It costs a lot less than a round brilliant diamond. Emerald cut looks like a rectangle, and is cut to appear layered. It gets its name because this is the way emeralds have always been cut. The emerald, being softer than the diamond, often got fractured in the process of cutting. Then the experts discovered that the emerald could be cut in a special way to preserve its integrity. This gave emeralds more life, and it became fashionable to wear emeralds. Soon it was discovered that diamonds could also be cut in this fashion, and the cut was called the emrald cut.

Diamonds with a marquis cut look like thin ovals with pointed ends. This cut makes the fingers look longer and adds elegance to any hand. This cut is already more popular than the emerald cut. It is usually worn as a solitaire or as the center of a multi-stone ring. However, if all the stones are not marquis cut, a multi-stone ring with something else as the center looks odd with marquis side stones.

There are other styles of diamonds also such as baguette and pave, which are mainly used for side stones to provide accents. Once you know what type of cut you like, and what enhances the beauty of your hand, you can get a ring set with your favorite cut diamonds.

About The Author

Amanti Leddar is the owner of A Guide To Diamonds, Inc. which is a comprehensive site containing replies to queries and content related to diamonds. For more details, go to: http://www.rjmdiamonds.com.

Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

An engagement ring is a piece of jewelry that remains close to the heart. Engagement rings represent faith, love and commitment in a relationship. They are unique, creating an impact on the person it is gifted to. There are a variety of engagement rings available in the market with different stones, cuts and shapes. Amongst all, diamonds are considered the most appropriate, especially when they are purchased for women. The diamond engagement rings are extremely popular and they are available in exclusive designs. The cushion cut is traditional and is also known as a "pillow cut." Cushion cut diamond engagement rings are referred to as antique estate engagement rings.

Most of the latest varieties are designed with electric light highlighting, whereas cushion cut diamond rings are done, keeping candlelight in mind. These rings have larger facets and rounded corners as compared to other. This increases their sparkle in candlelight. The facet plan and rounded corners of cushion cut diamond engagement rings give a certain depth to the diamonds, which in turn enhances the real beauty of these rings. The surface area of these rings allows a person to see through the diamond. Cushion cut diamond rings are more soothing in comparison to the modern varieties and look gorgeous at romantic candlelight dinners. Most of these rings are mainly found in the antique and estate markets, but due to their increasing popularity, they are being offered by selected companies too.

Though cushion cut diamond engagement rings are not as brilliant as the contemporary rings, they still have the ability to stand out in a host of other brilliant pieces, due to their magnificent and classic appeal. The rings are known to epitomize the emotion and love being conveyed by the person. They symbolize perfection and are truly a girl's best friend.

Diamond Engagement Rings provides detailed information on Diamond Engagement Rings, Platinum Diamond Engagement Rings, Diamond Solitaire Engagement Rings, Antique Diamond Engagement Rings and more. Diamond Engagement Rings is affiliated with Diamond Wedding Rings.