The Truth About Diamonds

Diamonds have a mystique about them; they are stunning to look at, they are cut beautifully to enhance any piece of jewelry, and when the sun catches them, they flash like miniature suns. However, if you are planning a diamond purchase, you need to know the truth about diamonds. All the television ads that portray diamonds as the ultimate gift of love, the romantic magazine ads that tell us that a diamond is the only gem that is the perfect gift can mislead us. The truth about diamonds is a little more complicated than this image of the perfect expression of perfect love.

Learning the Truth about Diamonds

There is nothing sinister here; just some basic truths and information about diamonds before you take out your credit card. First, make sure that the stone you are purchasing really is a diamond. This is especially true of diamonds sold on eBay and estate auctions. Before you buy, insist that a certified gemologist examine the gemstone. This is certification will tell you the stone’s carat weight, its color and clarity, and its flaws, if any. A seller who will not do this for you may not be telling the truth about the diamond you are hoping to purchase.

What looks like a diamond is not always a diamond. In the Depression era, many people were too poor to buy a diamond. Instead, rings made of fine crystal served as engagement rings. If you happen across one of these rings, the seller should inform you of its true composition. Crystal jewelry from the Depression years is quite beautiful; simply make sure you know the truth about this diamond “substitute.”

Similar to the crystal jewelry of the past, cubic zirconium is quite lovely; only a gemologist can tell the difference between a diamond created by nature and a diamond created in a laboratory. The truth is that they are both diamonds; one is natural and one is artificial. Again, just make sure you know what you are buying.

Another myth to keep in mind is that many diamonds are not clear stones. The gem’s physical and chemical make up is what determines a diamond, not the color. Created by untold years by nature from carbon molecules, diamonds can be any color in the rainbow. The truth about these diamonds is not that they are “trash” diamonds as some believe, but are stunning in color and clarity. One of the most beautiful diamonds in the world is a large violet diamond bought by the late Richard Burton for the love of his life, Elizabeth Taylor, to match her eyes.

The Latest Trend

When it comes to making a fashion statement with jewelry, women prefer to sport a glittery diamond or two. Diamond rings, pendants, bracelets et al are available in various designs and price ranges to adorn the woman at work, at a party or at a ceremonial gathering. Weddings are a big occasion for diamond rings, especially as engagement rings, wedding bands, and even as small token gifts for the immediate family. In every day and age, since times forgone, diamond rings have added sparkle to an occasion. In the recent past, diamond rings became a symbol of love and commitment. Engagement rings and anniversary rings all seem to speak the language of togetherness. But, the latest trend in diamond rings is more as a celebration of womanhood. Today, the trend of wearing a diamond ring on the right hand, instead of the traditional left hand is fast catching up. The stone is the same but the style statement is completely different. The right hand ring is the mark of the independent woman. It is a symbol of assertion of character and independence. The 21st century woman is outgoing, career oriented and self-sufficient. The right hand ring stands for all these qualities. Where the conventional left-hand engagement ring or wedding band would be a gift from a male companion or husband, the right hand diamond ring doesn’t spell any such relations. This is not to say that married or engaged women are not wearing the right hand ring. In fact, many women make a multiple style statement with rings on both hands to compliment the independent as well as the committed woman. The right hand diamond ring not only makes a statement by how it is worn but also by how it is designed. These diamond rings are specially made with smaller stones, multiple stones, open space designs and different cuts. When you see a right hand diamond ring, you can’t mistake it for a conventional engagement ring.