Sabtu, 28 Maret 2009

Antique Diamond Rings Carry A Lot Of History

Antique Diamond Rings Carry A Lot Of History
By Grace Jennings


Many diamond shoppers prefer antique diamond rings and jewelry because of the history associated with them. One of the fist decisions to be made about before buying a diamond is whether to choose treated or untreated stones. Purists prefer untreated while others believe that treated varieties make for enhanced color and other unique characteristics. In either event, any and all laboratory enhancements must be made clear to the buyer and detailed on the sales receipt.

Antique diamonds date back to European historical periods including Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Victorian and Georgian. Back in those days, the class structure of Europe entitled the wearing of these gems only to royalty. In the 17th century, a wealthy merchant class occasionally wore a diamond - but their rarity allowed them the acclaimed name of "the royal gem".

The Georgian Period, named for the procession of kings named George, was a period known for handmade jewelry with new cuts gaining in popularity and demand. Since diamonds were most exclusively used at the beginning of the period, larger stones were replaced with a combination of smaller diamonds portraying a cascade manifestation.

An engagement ring is typically regarded as a symbol of two lives being joined into one and more times than not, the stone of choice is a diamond. As a promise of eternal love, their value is limitless. Of course economically speaking, certain stones will cost more than others depending on a number of factors used to measure their value.

Inherent characteristics of diamonds include their representation of strength, purity, beauty and eternity. It's a fact that most engagement rings are given for their intrinsic value of eternal love. Therefore, the choice of diamond should be every bit as special as the person receiving it.

So, what style should you choose? The answer to this question is limitless - it will be as unique as the individual who will wear it. Just as most of us have a favorite color, you'll find that diamonds come in an array of natural colors. And, color plays a role in the price you'll pay. For example, a natural green stone may be valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars while an irradiated or treated version might be available at a fraction of the cost.

Aside from the ring's appearance in a jewelry case or picture, consideration should be given to whether it will flatter the hand that will be wearing it. Often the cut or shape can make a big difference in this area. Another consideration is the setting that is used. Attention should be given to whether the setting is properly mounted and if the ring appears to be worth the asking price.

The cut can enhance a diamond's sparkle and provide a window into its owner's personality. Generally, someone wearing a round cut displays security and a family centered personality. On the other hand, an individual sporting a marquise cut tends to have a career-centered personality.

Finding antique diamond rings can be a fun and rewarding experience. Just remember to follow the appropriate guidelines for quality, look for authentication and proper mounting. Perhaps the most important qualification is that you or your gift recipient like the way it looks and will enjoy wearing it.

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