The 4 C’s of Black Diamond Rings

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Black diamond rings are beautiful to behold; even more so when they are combined with colorless diamonds, white sapphires, or any other precious gem that makes for a stunning contrast. Black diamonds are found mostly in Brazil. They have been around for quite a while, although recently they are incring in popularity as celebrities as well as the consumer market are finding them to be edgy and unique. When choosing any of the large variety and sizes of black diamond rings that are available it is important to consider the same “4 C’s” of diamond quality that you would when choosing any diamond. They are color, clarity, carat, and cut.

Color

People are discovering (unlike how they felt years ago) that a black diamond is a real diamond. They are crystallized carbon, just like any diamond. The darkness of black diamonds comes from tiny cracks throughout the stone that contain graphite or sulphides. It could also be caused by changes that happen when a near-white diamond is subjected to very high temperatures. A black diamond that is naturally dark, when it is mined, is rare and so more expensive.

Most black diamond rings, necklaces, bracelets and pendants, etc are treated by exposing them to high temperatures. A treated stone is often of a better quality, so there is nothing wrong with doing this. If you feel like you have to have a black diamond that has not been treated, be certain to look for one that is advertised as untreated or GIA Certified (Gemological Institute of America).

 Clarity

Clarity refers to how clear a diamond is, but with a black diamond clarity refers to the stone’s luster and making sure that it has no surface chips or cracks. Black diamond rings and any other type of black diamond jewelry should have a glossy, sparkling surface. AAA is the best rating grade.

Carat

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. Depending on what size you are looking for, you could purchase a one-half carat black diamond ring or a two carat black diamond or larger. Bear in mind that black diamonds are heavier than traditional diamonds, so a one carat black diamond will look smaller than a colorless one carat diamond.

Cut

The cut of diamond refers to the stone’s proportions and polish, not to its shape. Most of the time black diamonds have a simple cut of sixteen facets and their surface should be smooth with no cracks. When a diamond is unearthed, it just looks like a piece of glass. So the diamond is cut with precise facets (or tiny polished faces).

Before purchasing black diamond rings it is also important to consider the setting. These rings are already stunning to look at but when set with white gold or yellow gold, the brilliance of the blend is elegant and beautiful.

 If you’d like a ring that is non-traditional and that will make a dramatic statement, black diamond rings could be what you are looking for!

Hi - I’m Jemma. I LOVE Articlesbase - it is part of my all-free way to make money, which I use to help take care of my rescue animals. I have rescue horses, dogs, cats and birds.

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Here’s where to find that perfect gift of Black Diamond Rings - happy hunting!

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Non-Diamond Engagement Rings

Not every couple choose a diamond engagement ring. While some don’t like the thought of the potential of conflict diamonds, others are mindful of their budget or the economy, and for some, it just comes down to personal taste. When selecting an engagement ring sans diamond there are many different options.

Firstly there is the gemstone engagement ring. There is an enormous range of semi- precious gems that are ideal as engagement rings. Popular choices include emeralds, sapphires (don’t forget Nicole Richie had a gorgeous pink sapphire engagement ring), rubies, and tanzanite.

Other choices include garnets, topaz, amethyst, peridot, aquamarine, citrine, opals, and even pearls. Apart from opals and pearls, which do require some extra care in day to day activities, gemstone engagement rings are all going to be sturdy enough to last the passage of time. If in doubt, think about all the antique rings you see set with semi- precious gems that are still in pristine condition after 50 or 100 years.

Colorful gems allow for a lot of extra visual appeal and may suit the girl who especially loves and wears one color. Gems can also be selected for their particular meanings, qualities, and the months they are assigned to.

From a love point of view, some gems have more appropriate symbolism than others. Rubies are thought to promote love and open up the heart. Aquamarine allows a viewpoint filled with love in a difficult situation. Tanzanite will open and uplift the heart.

Pearls are said to be great for creativity, and topaz for minimising worries and mood swings. Sapphires will provide you with mental clarity.

While some couples may select a birthstone as a gem, others may opt to select the stone for the month they became engaged, or the month they are planning to marry in.

When selecting a semi-precious gem it is still important to check the stone’s quality. Does it have imperfections, what is the cut, color, and carats? If you have an unusually active lifestyle or heavy job, it may be worthwhile mentioning this to the jeweller. Some gemstones may be more appropriate than others in this sort of scenario.

Secondly, there are other options such as Celtic patterned engagement rings, braided engagement rings, and other worked rings such as the paisley designed engagement ring.

Celtic engagement rings can be ideal for the couple looking for the ultimate in symbolism. The various knots, swirls, lines and crosses, all have unique meanings, and make for individual statements of love.

Andy Moquin has spent 20 years in the jewelry industry with much of his experience in polished diamonds, engagement rings, wedding rings and custom jewelry design. He is an accomplished business consultant and is available for advice on topics such as marketing, advertising, merchandising and business turnarounds.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/nondiamond-engagement-rings-1008262.html

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