You are here: Home / Archives for Metal Type

The 4Cs of Diamonds: Diamond Color

December 14, 2009 By marc Leave a Comment

Diamond color is one of the 4C’s and is a major factor in determining the quality and cost of a diamond.  Diamond color actually refers to the lack of color not the amount of color found in the diamond.  Diamonds composed of pure carbon are colorless and are extremely rare and costly.  Most diamonds contain nitrogen, boron, or hydrogen all of which impact color.  A majority of all diamonds sold on the market today contain traces of nitrogen that causes slight shades of yellow or brown.

In the 1950’s the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) instituted a color grading system to eliminate the confusion regarding diamond color that is still used industry wide today.  Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).

Diamond Color Grade Chart

How to Choose a Diamond Color

D-E-F = colorless

G-H-I = near colorless

J-K-L-M = faint yellow

N-Z = very light to light yellow

Some key factors to consider when choosing a diamond color

Price – colorless diamonds are more rare and therefore costly.  A near colorless diamond provides a great value and looks beautiful with any metal type.

Cut – when a diamond is cut well the diamond’s color may appear whiter than it actually is disguising any color within the stone.

Size – the size of a diamond will affect the appearance of its color.  Color can be seen more easily in a larger diamond than a smaller one.  If choosing a diamond weight of 1.00ct or greater look for a diamond in the colorless (D-F) or near colorless (G-I) range.  If you prefer the warmth of a diamond with color choose a faint yellow (J-M) stone.  When choosing a diamond beyond the I color range you’ll want to consider your metal choice for the setting.  Some like the contrast between a white metal such as platinum, palladium, or white gold and the faint yellow tones of the diamond and some don’t want to see any color at all.  This is a personal preference and there is no right or wrong diamond color for any setting choice.

Shape – the shape of a diamond will affect color especially in a step-cut diamond such as an Asscher or Emerald.  With their large open facets they do not display the same amount of brilliance as other cuts and color can be easily seen through the table.

Learn more about the 4 C’s

Filed Under: Education, The 4 C's Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

How to shop for an engagement ring

November 1, 2009 By Since1910 Leave a Comment

In a previous post we gave some tips on things to know before you begin to look for engagements rings. Now that you’ve thought about budget, diamond shape, and a setting, we’ve broken down the buying process into 3 steps for you:

  1. We always recommend starting with the diamond first. Our diamond education section will provide you with all the information you need about the 4 c’s and various diamond shapes to get you started. Each diamond shape is unique in its own way and offers something a little different in terms of look.
  2. After you choose your diamond, the setting is next. The setting, regardless of metal type or style, should always enhance the stone. The diamond should “stand out” and be the focal point of the ring.
  3. Lastly, metal type – A majority of settings you’ll look at are available in 18kt white gold, yellow gold, and platinum. If you like the look of white metal, platinum would be the way to go. Platinum should also be your choice if your significant other has metal allergies.

Now that you’re prepared, shop for the perfect engagement ring using our Create Your Own Engagement Ring three-step process!

Filed Under: Education Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

What do I need to know before I begin shopping for an engagement ring?

October 28, 2009 By Since1910 Leave a Comment

#1 is always to establish a budget

Know how much you can spend.  Then you need to ask yourself:

What diamond shape does she like?

Some research has shown that diamond shape and personality are connected.  Here’s a brief example:

Round – home and family centered, dependable, easy to get along with, and security conscious

Oval – individualistic, creative, well-organized, dependable, and willing to take chances

Heart – sentimental, creative, feminine, sensitive, trusting, dramatic, and a dreamer

Rectangle/Square – organized, conservative, efficient, honest, and open

Pear – conforming, considerate, adaptable, and home & community centered

Marquise – extroverted, experimental, exciting, innovative, and career centered

What type of setting does she like – solitaire, traditional, modern, or antique?

Does she prefer a setting with diamonds or without? If with, what type?

Think about her lifestyle – is she athletic, what type of work does she do? This will help you decide on a setting (if she didn’t already give you pictures or tell you!) and we can recommend how the diamond should be set – prong or bezel.

What type of metal?

What color will match her other pieces – white gold, yellow gold, or platinum? Important to know – does she have a metal allergy? If yes, or you’re unsure and this is a surprise, platinum should be your choice.

Learn at least the basics about the 4 c’s – you can maximize your budget by looking at different combinations.

Once you’ve thought about the above you’re ready to start looking. I always recommend starting with the diamond first. Once you pick the shape, color, and weight you’ll be able to pick the perfect setting that will show off the stone you chose beautifully.

Keep in mind that there is no right or wrong type of engagement ring. Choose what you like and what will make you both happy.

Shop now using our Create Your Own Engagement Ring three-step process

Filed Under: Education Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,