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.
Early on in the history of diamonds, only royalty were allowed to wear the precious stones. In fact, kings were allowed to possess diverse colors while others were allowed to wear only the color awarded to their caste. Although unproven, the assigned color is believed to have been associated with such things as invulnerability, lightning, magic, healing, protection and poisoning.
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.
Antique diamonds have withstood the test of time and it's not uncommon for an engagement ring to be passed down within families for multiple generations. Based on these sentimental values of keeping heirlooms in the family, presenting an antique engagement ring to a bride-to-be can be a sensitive issue. In the act of sentiment, the receiver should be considered as well as the desire to keep up family tradition.
Not only are diamonds known for their beauty and symbol of eternal love, they have time-tested strength and durability. Natural diamonds have proven to withstand knocks and scratches of everyday life inflicted over years of wear. By contrast, their treated counterparts have not been given this same test of time for the obvious reason they have not been around as long.
When it comes to choosing the right diamond, remember that your choice will be just as individual as the person receiving it. There's no diamond style that is a perfect one-size-fits-all, so use your knowledge of the individual and take the time to understand what have the most meaning to them.
If a flush setting is used, the diamond is set securely and presents a smooth appearance. This type of mounting is recommended for anyone who does a lot of work with their hands. The flush setting is generally more expensive than the prong setting, but the stone receives more protection with this option.
Diamonds often symbolize wealth and status. However, beyond the traditional symbolism the chosen cut of the stone can provide some personal insight. Generally speaking, individuals wearing a rectangle or square cut display discipline and a value for organization and honesty. Someone preferring the pear cut tends to be adaptable and is often centered on their home and community.
After shopping for antique diamond rings and finding the perfect fit, don't forget to properly care for your jewelry. Since diamonds are natural grease attractors, natural skin oil can become embedded in your ring quite easily. Get a gentle jewelry cleaner and make it a habit to clean your gem periodically so it can continue to look as beautiful and shiny as the day you got it!
About the Author:
Make a statement with vintage diamond jewelry. You'll find a great selection of antique diamond jewelry at MyDiamondSpree.com every day.
No comments:
Post a Comment