Latest Diamond Shapes : Pear, Flower, Kite...

Diamond: Remarkably simple yet unmatched in popularity, is the most sorts after gemstone to create fine jewelry as compared to any other gemstone. This formidable gemstone is the hardest substance on earth has appropriately become the Ultimate Symbol of Love.

In this five series email we try to explore the ultimate determining factors of this gemstone that makes it so varied in values, appearance and quality. The 5 most determining factors are Shape, Cut, Colour, Clarity, Carat, Weight.

We explore the Shape today. To be noted here is that Shape is different from Cut. Shape refers to the basic form of the diamond: oval or pear shaped, for instance. Cut or proportions, on the other hand, refer to the ability of each of these shapes to reflect light.

Round: The most popular of diamond cuts is the modern round brilliant, whose facet arrangements and proportions have been perfected by both mathematical and empirical analysis to have exceptional brilliance, and light reflectivity. The round brilliant that we know today was invented by Marcel Tolko sky, a Belgian mathematician born to a family of diamond cutters who, in 1919, wrote his doctoral thesis on diamond proportion and symmetry, and "invented" the round brilliant. More than 75% of diamonds sold today are rounds.

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Princess: The princess diamond is the most popular shape after the round brilliant and is typically square in shape, although it can also be rectangular. The princess shape was created in the 1980s and displays the same high degree of brilliance as the round brilliant. It is a unique and distinctive alternative to the popular round brilliant. It's important to note that when weighing color grades and prices, sometimes a lower color grade diamond in a princess shape will manifest as visible color in the corners of the stone. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is often embellished with triangular stones at its sides.

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Emerald: - The emerald cut is not a brilliant cut, but rather features a large open table with step cuts. The emerald cut is traditionally rectangular and most closely resembles the natural diamond shape. Although the emerald diamond is not as brilliant as the round shape or princess shape, it is considered to be an elegant cut, vintage in style, and less "flashy" than other shapes.

Note that due to the large table of the emerald shape, inclusions and color can be easier to detect. It is recommended that you choose a diamond with a higher clarity and color grade than you would if choosing a brilliant diamond.

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Asscher: - The Asscher diamond is almost indistinguishable from the emerald cut aside from its larger step facets, dramatically cut corners and square shape. Also, because of its proportions, it typically has more light reflection and fire than an emerald shaped diamond. As with the emerald diamond, the Asscher diamond also has a certain antique, elegant air about it. The Asscher diamond, similar to the princess diamond, can sometimes show color impurities in its corners. Therefore, although the price for an Asscher diamond with lower color grade can be enticing.

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Oval Diamond: - This is an even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among women with small hands or short fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering illusion of length to the hand.

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Marquise: - This football-like shape that comes to a point on either end, which is said to maximize the illusion of increased diamond weight, giving the appearance of a much larger-looking diamond. A modification of the round brilliant, the marquise shape also offers a high level or brilliance and light reflection. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds

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Radiant: - This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the emerald shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its 70 facets maximize the effect of its color refraction. The radiant shape was born over twenty years ago and is considered to be the father of 'fancy cut' diamonds. The proportioning, facet arrangement and shape of the radiant diamond is considered a good shape for colored diamonds since it is widely held that these factors intensify color.

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Heart: - This ultimate symbol of romance is essentially a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the beauty of the cut. We recommend you should look for a stone that is perfectly symmetrical

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Pear: - The pear shaped diamond is also a modified brilliant shape, a combination of the round and marquis shapes. It is also known as a teardrop shape for its round bottom and sides which taper to one common point. It also belongs to that category of diamond whose design most complements a hand with small or average-length fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants or earrings.

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The shape of things to come in diamonds has already produced other fanciful and innovative styles such as the flower, regent, triangle and kite. Nor does it stop there. Individuality and taste determine the fashion, and the magic of the gem cutter transforms each stone into a unique work of art.

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12 ways to Romance with Your Birthstones

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Only those who LOVE YOUR WIFE Kindly Read

Classy Emerald & Diamond Dangler Earring

This pair of big bold emerald earring is not for the faint at heart. The Pentagon shaped diamonds set in the center is accentuated with vivid green glowing emeralds around. The square cut emeralds set around the unusually shaped diamond, makes this pair bold and unconventional. The contrasting white and yellow gold add to the uniqueness. Adorn it and you will not fail to attract a second look.

Praying Palms

Be one of the first to own today’s hottest trend. Rare and Fancy 'Praying Palms' diamond pendant is created with champagne and Light Brown colour, VS diamonds. Set in Black Rhodium plated 2K Gold this is a finish inspired by today’s designers. The pendant radiates elegance with its fine workmanship. Run it through a dull gold chain or even silver chain which will enhance its beauty and surely attract a second look!

Gorgeous Diamond Ring

This gorgeous ring combines white diamonds perfectly with alluring champagne diamonds to create a classy piece of jewelry. The unique design set in 14K White Gold highlights the contrasting diamond colours. Complement your fashion collection with this amazing Champagne Diamond Ring and add that touch of glamour.

Couture Diamond Ring

This trend setting piece flaunts a round briolette cut large faceted, fancy cut diamond in the center accentuated by fine diamonds set in the classic pave setting. The rhodium plated metal base offers a perfect contrast to the glittering diamonds. The combination of the yellow gold and the black rhodium plated setting makes it particularly attractive. Adorn it and you will find yourself stealing the spotlight.

Tahitian Pearl Earrings in 18K Gold

Gorgeous Tahitian Pearl Dangler Earring set in 18k gold with Rhodium plating, to give a white gold finish. Fine diamonds are set in the classic pave setting in a lotus flower like pattern, with fully rounded Tahitian pearls at the bottom. These pearls exhibit a superb mirror like luster with shimmering rich eye popping mystical PEACOCK iridescent over-glow. A sure shot show stopper at any occasion.

Diamond Eternity Band

This elegant wide band ring, studded with diamonds in the unusual leaf pattern gives a gentle and feminine touch to the wearer. The fine white gold perfectly complements the glittering diamonds. This ring makes a perfect wedding ring or lovely everyday piece.

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Pearls- Treasures from Deep Sea

Valuable pearls occur in the wild, but they are very rare. These are called Natural Pearls. They are formed inside the shell of certain mollusks: as a defense mechanism to a potentially threatening irritant such as a parasite inside its shell, injuring the mantle tissue. The mollusk creates a pearl sac to seal off the irritation. Pearls are grown artificially by implanting (nucleated) an irritant and then allow the mollusk to create a pearl sac, as a counter reaction by secreting nacre to surround the object or irritant. This develops into a Cultured Pearl. The whole process is called Pearl Farming.

These cultured pearls make up nearly 100% of the pearls sold today. In a Pearl Farm, several thousand oysters are nucleated and then cared for during this period. Around 2-5 years are required for a pearl to grow and develop. Pearl farms can be set up in rivers, lakes or oceans, depending on whether you want to grow Freshwater or Saltwater pearls. To grow properly, oysters and mollusks need clear, tranquil waters at a temperature of about 20-30º C (or about 68-86º F). Like any other form of farming, pearl farming can be as dependent on luck as it is on skill. An entire bed of oysters can be completely devastated by unpredictable
and uncontrollable factors, such as water pollution, severe storms, excessive heat or cold, disease and many other natural and man-made phenomena. Although pearl farmers attempt to control as many of these variables as possible, pearl farming can indeed be a risky business!

The First Step:- The first step in the pearl production process is to obtain oysters to be nucleated. In the early days of the cultured pearl industry, oysters were simply collected from the sea. Although some farmers continue using this method today, many use the more modern practice of breeding their own oysters. To do this, the pearl farmer collects oyster sperm and eggs from high-quality oysters already on the farm. The sperm are used to fertilize the eggs, and so create a new generation of oyster larvae. Over a period of a few months, the larvae develop into baby oysters. They are generally then moved into a separate "nursery" area of the farm. Here they are tended for around 1-2 years, until they have grown sufficiently large to be nucleated.
A pearl technician nucleating a pearl

Nucleating

The Process Of Nucleation In Pearl Farming:- The process of nucleation is a surgical procedure, whereby a foreign object is implanted into the oyster. This object causes irritation, which the oyster counteracts by secreting nacre to surround the object; this produces the pearl. Two basic methods of nucleation are used. Saltwater oysters are generally nucleated using a "bead", prepared from mother-of-pearl. First, the bead is surrounded by a small piece of mantle tissue taken from a donor oyster. The bead and tissue are then implanted into the oyster's gonad. The bead serves as a mold, or nucleus, around which the pearl develops. The resulting pearl will contain the bead at its center and will tend to develop in the same general shape as the original bead. The bead can be detected in the final pearl by x-rays.

Pearl inside and Oyester
A newly opened freshwater mussel, showing the rows of cultured pearls inside Freshwater mussels are generally grafted using a piece of mantle tissue only, without a bead. This small piece of mantle tissue is placed into an incision in the host mussel's mantle instead of the gonad. An average freshwater mussel will produce 24 to 32 pearls per culturing cycle.
Finally, The Pearls Are Harvested:-
After the pearls have been allowed to develop fully, they must be harvested. After the pearls are extracted from the oysters, they are washed, dried, and sorted into general categories. Sometimes, the pearls are polished by tumbling in salt and water. The pearls are then sold to jewelers, manufacturers, and pearl dealers.

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Famous Diamonds History : Love & Passion Made it

Royal Feuds, Intrigues, Betrayals and Murders- this and more about the last 5 Famous diamonds of the world. This makes this 2 part concluding series on the World's Famous Diamonds an interesting read. To begin with......

1. The Largest Faceted Diamond In The World -The Golden Jubilee

In 1985 the Golden Jubilee diamond was discovered in the Premier mine in South Africa. It was first known as the Unnamed Brown, because of its brown color. The Golden Jubilee is the largest faceted diamond in the world today. The Golden Jubilee weighs 545 carats and was cut by the master cutter Gabi Tolkowsky in a fire rose cushion cut. The diamond was considered as a rather ugly stone, but Gabi Tolkowsky produced with special tools and cutting methods a glittering yellow-brown beauty of a diamond. The Unnamed Brown became the Golden Jubilee when King Rama IX of Thailand (also known as King Bhumibol Adulyadej theGreat) was given the stone to the 50th anniversary of his coronation in 1997.

2. Largest Blue White Diamond Found - Excelsior

The Excelsior was found in Africa in 1893. The rough diamond weighed 995,2 carats, was blue-white colored and had some black spots inside. The shape of the diamond was unusual - flat on one side, a peak on the other side.

The name Excelsior comes apparently from this peak, since Excelsior means higher. The Excelsior diamond was cleaved in several pieces. The three largest pieces weighed 158, 147 and 130 carats.

The smaller pieces weighed from 70 carats to under 1 carat each. Why it was decided to cut this large beautiful diamond into pieces stays unclear. The Excelsior diamonds were sold separately. Some were bought by Tiffany & Co, some are said to be purchased by De Beers.

3.Did u know that Largest Indian Rose Cut Diamond has a Russian name- Orlov

The Orlov (sometimes Orloff or Orlow) diamond is one of the most famous Russian diamonds and is part of the Treasures of the Diamond Fund. The Orlov diamond was mounted in the Imperial Sceptre of Catherine the Great. It weighs 198,62 carats and has a slight blue-green color. The diamond is shaped like the half of a pigeon’s egg and has a small indentation on one side.

The Orlov is special, because it has still its original Indian rose cut. It is said the the Orlov diamond was once part of an Hindu temple statue. It was stolen by a French deserter who sold the diamond in Madras. The diamond traveled through Europe and was finally purchased by the Russian Count Orlov who helped Catherine to the throne and was also her lover. Catherine took the diamond, but she didn’t take the lover back. Count Orlov died lonely in a mental asylum, but the diamond still has his name.

There are still speculations that the Orlov diamond is identical with another famous diamond which is long lost: the Great Mogul. The unusual cut, the special facets and the slight indentation could be the sign that the Orlov is indeed the Great Mogul

4. If diamonds could speak, none could match this one for the wild tales it could tell - Sancy

Sancy Diamond, a mere 55.232 carats and surrounded by a simple circle of white gold, resides in its case like a demure young lady at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Yet, if diamonds could speak, none could match the Sancy for the wild tales it could tell. It would keep a listener spellbound with a thousand-and-one stories of war and intrigue, pomp and ceremony, and the foibles and follies of the monarchs, lords, ladies, moneymen, and schemers who owned, lusted after, and even killed to posses it.

The Sancy Diamond's 600-year odyssey-a labyrinthine journey begins in the fabled mines of Golconda, India, and wends its way across three continents and through some of the most spectacular events in European history.

Once the largest white diamond in the Western world, the Sancy was thought to impart invincibility to whoever wore it. Paradoxically, it was also believed to be the source of an ancient curse that visited a violent death to any who owned it. Over the centuries, the diamond adorned the crowns of several French royals. Henry III of France suffered from premature baldness and tried to conceal this fact by wearing a cap. As diamonds were becoming increasingly fashionable at the time, Henry arranged to borrow de Sancy's diamond to decorate his cap. Later the diamond was sold to Kind James I of England, who wore it as a lucky hatpin. In the fifteenth century, it was lost on the field of battle by Charles the Bold of Burgundy only to be found by a Swiss soldier who sold it for one florin to a priest from Basel.

In the sixteenth century, while en route to be pawned to raise a mercenary Swiss army, it was ripped from the vitals of King Henry IV's hapless courier who had swallowed it in order to conceal it from robbers. Won and lost by the kings of Portugal and lusted after by several Spanish monarchs, the elusive Sancy was hotly pursued for decades by England's Elizabeth I, stolen from the Louvre and secreted under the floorboards of a Parisian garret during the French Revolution, and was instrumental in Napoleon's meteoric rise to power. It then passes among the royal and noble houses of Europe, from John Galeazzo di Visconti, Duke of Milan in the fourteenth century, to England's Charles I, France's Louis XVI, a Russian prince of serf origins, and ultimately, the British Astors.

In between in 1865, there are records to state that it was bought by Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy. It was finally sold by the 4th Viscount Astor to the Louvre for $1 million in 1978. The Sancy now rests in the Apollo Gallery, sharing attention with the likes of the Regent and the Hortensia.

5. This is a new kid on the block, born 1990- The Millennium Star

The Millennium Star is a blue diamond with the shape of a teardrop (or a pear) and weighs 204.04 carats. It is the second largest faceted D-Flawless diamond with perfect proportions in the world. The largest diamond is the Centenary diamond with 273.15 carats. The Millennium Star was cut from a rough diamond of magic 777 carats. The original diamond was found in Zaire in 1990 and was purchased by De Beers. The cutters of the De Beers Group needed three years to perfect the classic shape of the diamond with 54 facets Actress Sophie Marceau had the honor to present the Millennium Star.

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Worlds Famous Diamonds

In this 2 part series, we introduce to you the best of the world’s diamonds. Considering, for every carat of rough diamonds recovered, more than 250 tonnes of ore has to be blasted, crushed and processed, these diamonds then are priceless. You will be impressed to know that most of these famous diamonds had their origins in India and are now housed in famous Museums around the world. The most mysterious of them all is the-

1] How the HOPE DIAMOND, killed the hopes of all its owners:- Currently housed in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, 45.52 Carats, is ironically named Hope diamond (named for its purchaser, Henry Thomas Hope) became associated with a run of bad luck for its owners.

The diamond is said to bring misfortune to its possessors, because it is believed to be stolen from an eye of a Hindu idol of the goddess Sita in India. And indeed many who possessed the Hope diamond died young or went bankrupt or were killed. It is thought to be a part of the famous Blue Tavernier Diamond, brought to Europe from India in l642, mined at the Kollur mines of Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India. The Blue was purchased by King Louis XIV who had it cut to 67.50 carats from 112 carats to bring out its brilliance.

The diamond was stolen during the French Revolution, and a smaller diamond of similar color was sold in 1830 to Hope, an English banker. After inheriting the diamond, Hope's son lost his fortune. It was eventually acquired by an American widow,

Mrs. Edward McLean, whose family then suffered a series of catastrophes: her only child was accidentally killed, the family broke up, Mrs. McLean lost her money, and then committed suicide. When Harry Winston, the New York diamond merchant, bought the stone in 1949, many clients refused touch the stone. To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the diamond in the Museum, Smithsonian Channel invited the American public to cast their vote on a new commemorative setting for the Hope Diamond, from three designs created by Harry Winston Inc.

The new design unveiled on the 20th of November 2010 is called Embracing Hope , chosen from the pre short listed design shown above. Embracing Hope includes two intertwined platinum bands, studded with 300 baguette stones. The Hope will be displayed briefly in its temporary setting next spring, the museum said. The diamond will be returned to its original setting, a pendant circled by diamonds, on a diamond necklace

2] How did the Koh I Noor from India end up on Queen Elizabeths crown travelling through 600 odd years :- Legend has suggested that the stone may date from before the time of Christ; theory indicates the possibility of its appearance in the early years of the 1300s; history proves its existence for the past two and a half centuries.105.60 Carats, an oval cut gem, now part of the British Crown Jewels. The name of this diamond means "Mountain of Light" and its history, dating back to1304, is the longest of all famous diamonds.

It was captured by the Rajahs of Malwa in the sixteenth century by the Mogul, Sultan Babur and remained in the possession of later Mogul emperors. It may have been set in the famous Peacock Throne made for Shah Jehan.

After the break-up of the Persian empire the diamond found its way to India. It may have traveled to Afghanistan with a bodyguard of Nadir Shah, who fled with the stone when the Shah was murdered, to be later offered to Ranjit Singh of the Punjab in exchange for military help (which was never delivered). After fighting broke out between the Sikhs and the British, The East India Company claimed the diamond as a partial indemnity, and then presented it to Queen Victoria in 1850. When the stone came from India, it weighed l986 carats; it was later recut to l08.93 carats.

It was first worn by the Queen in a brooch. It was later set in the State Crown, worn by Queen Alexandra and Queen Mary, and 1937 was worn for by Queen Elizabeth for her coronation. It is kept in the Tower of London, with the other Crown Jewels.

3]Why CULLINANA the Star of Africa is the biggest diamond in the world :- The Cullinan diamond is the largest rough gem-quality diamond ever found, at 3,106.75 carats.The largest polished gem from the stone is named Cullinan I or the Great Star of Africa, and at 530.4 carats. It was the largest polished diamond in the world until the 1985 discovery of the Golden Jubilee Diamond. It was found by Frederick Wells, surface manager of the Premier Diamond Mining Company in Cullinan, on January 26, 1905.

The stone was named after Sir Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the diamond mine who presented it to King Edward VII on his birthday. It was cut into three large parts by Asscher Brothers of Amsterdam, and eventually into 9 large gem-quality stones and a number of smaller fragments.

In 1905, transport from South Africa to England posed a security problem. Detectives from London were placed on a steamboat that was rumored to carry the stone, but this was a diversionary tactic. The stone on that ship was a fake, meant to attract those who would be interested in stealing it. The actual diamond was sent to England in a plain box via parcel post, albeit registered

4] How Darya-Ye-Noor found its way to Persia from the Mughal Empire :- Darya-ye Noor Diamond is recognized as the possession of the first Mogul emperor of India and is ranked as the most eminent diamond among the Iranian Crown Jewels. ‘Darya-ye Noor’ is a Persian word meaning "Sea of Light". The Darya-ye-Noor is known as one of the largest diamonds in the world and has a body mass of 182 carats (36.4 g) The diamond has a unique pale pink color that makes it a rare diamond. The extraction of this diamond was in India at the Golconda mine, which is in the southern India. The diamond was a precious possession of the Mughal knights.

The invasion of the adventurer, Nader Shah of Persia occurred in 1739 and the adventurer congregated a lot of possessions from the wealthy Mughal treasury that included the Darya-ye Noor, which were carried to Persia leaving the country of origin forever. The Darya-ye Noor presently forms part of the Iranian Crown Jewels and is on display at the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran

5] The symbol of love between Liz Taylor and Richard Burton:-The original diamond was found in the Premier mine in South Africa in 1966 and weighed 240.8 carats. The Taylor-Burton diamond was cut into a pear shape by jeweller Harry Winston and weighs 69.42 carats. Actor Richard Burton purchased the diamond for his wife Elizabeth Taylor to celebrate her 40th birthday in 1972 In 1978 Elizabeth Taylor sold the Taylor-Burton diamond after her divorce with Richard Burton. The diamond is now owned by Mr. Robert Mouawad who had the diamond slightly recut.

6] Why the Green Diamond from India is called the The Dresden Green :- The Dresden Green diamond originally from India, has got its name from Dresden, a city in Saxony in Germany, where it has been displayed for more than 200 years. The first time the diamond was mentioned was in the 1700’s.

In 1741 King Augustus III. purchased the green diamond, which is the largest natural green diamond of the world with a weight of 41 carats. Augustus had the green diamond set in a Golden Vlies Ornament. Only a few years later the ornament was rearranged, because Augustus was no member of the Order of the Golden Vlies. The Dresden Green was worked into a hat clasp along with other diamonds. This ornament is now on display in the Green Vault in the Dresden Castle.

More of such amazing diamonds and their interesting, some even mysterious facts in our second series, that will follow shortly. For more affordable, trendy and unique designs do check out our collection

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Have an Engagement Ring? Then this is what you need now- Eternity Bands

An eternity ring is a band that a man buys for a woman to symbolize their eternal love for each other. It’s a modern development as compared to an engagement ring which is supposed to be in vogue since Ancient Rome. The engagement ring is a betrothal gift from a man to his woman, which generally features gemstones, mostly solitaires. Eternity ring differs from a promise or commitment ring in that it's not purchased until after the couple marries. It symbolizes the renewal or ongoing nature of a lasting marriage. Occasion for Gifting: Eternity rings are used very often for wedding bands, but are becoming increasingly popular as anniversary gifts, therefore also being called Anniversary Rings.

The idea of an eternity band is to be given on some special moments in a couples life, like at their first child birth, or on other significant anniversary, like the 10th or the 25th.. Popular Gemstones & Metals: Eternity rings are usually made of gold, white gold, or platinum, that feature stones that encompass the outside of the ring all the way around. Some feature stones that go half-way around, while most feature stones all the way around. The stones most often used are diamonds. Though the traditional stones for eternity rings are diamonds, others like sapphires, emeralds and rubies, have been used.

These valuable gems are preferred over semi-precious stones. Worn On Which Finger: An eternity ring is worn on the left ring finger. It can replace a woman's wedding or engagement ring, whichever she prefers. Or, if the setting complements her wedding bands, she can wear all three rings on one finger. Setting: The traditional setting is a full band of circular stones, called a "full eternity ring." Some women prefer a "half eternity ring" with the stones concentrated to the front since they can be more comfortable to wear and easier to size. Band: Many people have their wedding bands made to fit and don't believe in sizing them. This is simply because they don't want the band to ever be cut. The circle must never be broken. This is one reason that eternity rings are so popular as wedding bands. They don't only beautifully compliment a diamond engagement ring, but they are one continuous unbreakable circle. Because of diamond placement circling the ring, you can't size it. Cutting the band could cause you to lose stones and some believe, break the eternal circle. Eternity rings must be made to be the size that you need. The band can be designed to look like a snake that is swallowing its tail, which, like the circle, is a symbol of eternity.

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Are You a Fashion Consious Man - Then this is JUST FOR YOU

Gone are the days when cufflinks and watches were all that was available for men as far as fashion was concerned.

Nowadays, most of the Indian men are finding jewelry as a perfect way to enhance their sex appeal and masculinity. Taking inspiration from the Bollywood and Hollywood hunks, guys don’t hesitate in portraying themselves in an entirely new, adorned look. They are indulged into buying and wearing jewelry and other accessories like finger rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces etc. with extreme self-confidence and enthusiasm.

This trend is basically for those men whose age ranges from 20-40 years. No surprise, the men’s jewelry industry saw an unimaginable growth of 20 percent in the past few years. So what are these attractive and glitzy, men’s jewelry and other accessories that a modern man should be looking at.

Finger Rings: Wearing a ring by men is not a recent trend at least in India. A large male population has been wearing them in various forms, since past many decades. Either in the form of wedding rings or rings studded with precious and semi-precious stones, suggested by an Astrologer. The rings which are specially designed for men in pure gold or silver are sleekly sculpted into masculine shapes.

Pendants: This is a trendy addition to the accessory list of men, unlike the rings. The Biker Jewelry has always been popular symbolizing power, rebellion and strength. Traditionally made in sterling silver and steel, they are now available also in fine metal like gold. Check out this pendant offered by Surat Diamond. A simple black chord with a rugged pendant too adds a casual look to the personality.

Earrings or Ear Studs: Earrings and ear studs are something men have worn for centuries again, at least in India. They have just gotten fashionable now. The choice ranges from classic 4 prong diamond studded earrings to an ear stud in materials like gold and silver. Andre Agassi popularized the silver hoop earring for men and is still in vogue.

Bracelets: Another accessory, men would prefer wearing is a bracelet. Kara, a steel bangle traditionally worn by the Sikhs is now a fashion trend. Bracelets come in various materials, right from brushed steel to rubber. Probably the most famous bracelet known around is the Bracelet, that Salman Khan wears as his lucky charm.

In the past, women were the primary buyers of men’s jewelry, as they attempted to add a bit of style to their significant other’s wardrobe. Today however, men are looking for such additions themselves, thanks to the influence of television, marketing, and magazines. With young buyers with better buying power than ever before, who are more willing to take on the fashion ‘risk’ the bling factor for men is here to stay!

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Match Your Necklace To Your Neckline

While matching your necklace to your ensemble, women often just look at the color and style of their outfit. Another important aspect to consider is the neckline of what you are wearing. The length and the style of the necklace chosen to accessorize your outfit, has a lot to do in how your ensemble turns out to be - Elegant, Chic, Gaudy or Overdone.

When donning a garment with a plunging neckline, shorter necklaces may be a wise choice. Girls who choose to don a V-neck or broad necked kurta a short gold chain or even a black chord thread adorned with a pendant will look good and catch the attention of the jewelry.

For clothes that feature a high neckline, like a Chinese collar kurta, a crew neck T-shirt,or a formal office shirt, which when worn covers your neck, a longer necklace is best. An elaborate string of pearls or a long silver chain will look just lovely even with a turtleneck.

With Sarees the rules could vary. With an elaborate saree, like a rich kanjeevaran (Rekha sorts) or ones with heavy embroidery a short necklace which falls right on the neckline looks classy. If it’s a plain saree with just a border a long necklace adds glamour to the ensemble.

However a bright bead necklace or an elaborate short necklace also will go well with a plain saree. Mid-length necklaces are also lovely, and can work for necklines of all heights. These pieces can also add a little weight to feminine, floaty blouses, and make your get-up appear more polished.

Ladies should make sure they have these go-to pieces in their jewelry box at all times. A waist-length necklace that can be looped, a mid-length piece and a shorter chain that rests on your collar bone are all necessities.

Just like the Little Black Dress, having staple jewelry items on hand is a must!

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EMERALD - The Colour Of Life!

The Green of the Emerald- the colour of life and of the springtime, which comes round again and again. But it has also, for centuries, been the colour of beauty and of constant love. Deep green is the most desired color in emeralds. The paler the color of the emerald, the lesser its value.

Emeralds have been held in high esteem since ancient times. Probably the oldest known finds were once made near the Red Sea in Egypt. Is it no wonder why, Cleopatra- Egypt’s tempestuous female monarch, was famous for wearing emeralds in her time. These gemstone mines, were already exploited by Egyptian pharaohs between 3000 and 1500 B.C. More recently, layers of emerald have been found in Brazil, South Africa, Zambia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India, but the emerald specimens found in Colombian are just unequaled. Synthetic emeralds are produced in Germany (Zerfass), United States (Chatham) and France (Gilson).

This gemstone still occupies a special position in many cultures and religions. Green for example is the holy colour of Islam. Islamic texts describe the Garden of Paradise as carpeted with this gem. For the lawns of heaven to be lined with a thick astro-turf of emerald. Due to this significance there are many famous emeralds carved with verses from the Koran, most notably the Mogul Emerald. The magnificent jewelry of the Nizams of Hyderabad boast of many emerald jewelry, including sarpech (bejeweled headgear), necklaces, waist-belts, brace-lets, anklets, finger -rings, pocket watches. In ancient Rome, green was the colour of Venus, the goddess of beauty and love. They wore gems as much for protection as pleasure.

This fascinating gemstone, is considered goddess among gemstones. As per Indian astrology, emerald is the gemstone, pertaining to Mercury. By wearing it, a man can appease his or her mental commotion. It is believed to provide peace and harmony. This green variety of beryl, a silicate of beryllium and aluminium represents regeneration and life. This green colour of emerald is due to trace of chromium. Finest quality emeralds are even more precious than diamonds.

Some of the most famous emeralds are to be seen in museums and collections. The New York Museum of Natural History, for example, has an exhibit in which a Cup made of pure emerald which belonged to the Emperor Jehangir. Also seen here is the Emerald and Diamond Tiara of Queen Victoria designed by her husband Prince Albert.

Emeralds come in a wide shade of greens, from yellow-green to blue-green. The most valuable is grass green with a hint of blue. The intensity and brightness of the color also affect the monetary value. Emeralds are also cut in many classical shapes like round, square, pear, oval etc. But if the raw material contains a large number of inclusions, it may often be cut into a gently rounded cabochon, or into one of the emerald beads which are so popular in India. Seen here is one of our popular design of Real Pearl and Emerald Bead Necklace.

A matter of trust:
Unfortunately, because the emerald is not only one of the most beautiful gemstones, but also one of the most valuable, there are innumerable synthetics and imitations. So how can you protect yourself from these 'fakes'? Well, the best way is to buy from a specialist in whom you have confidence. Large emeralds in particular should only be purchased with a report from a reputable gemological institute.

Today, fittingly enough, Emerald is the birthstone for May and still symbolizes the eternal hope and promise of Spring!!

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Solitaire Diamond Ring at guaranteed low prices

Surat Diamond is proud to announce the launch of its new customized, CERTIFIED SOLITAIRE DIAMOND RING site, where you can create your own Solitaire Diamond Ring, by choosing from our vast range of more than 75 thousand diamonds starting from Rs.10,000 to Rs.2 crores and 30 plus settings in 18kt yellow and 14kt white gold.

This is our new offering in keeping with our Mission Statement: Making fine Jewellery affordable to masses world over by use of technology.

The launch of this collaborative-e-commerce module on www.suratdiamondcom has been a reward of our three generation's rich experience in the diamond business and being pioneers in diamond retailing through e commerce since 1998.

We have created a platform for customer participation in the buying process, by giving him/her the power of choice and design, with requisite tools to create their jewellery. We have put the consumer in control of shopping and made sure he/she is satisfied.

If a customer wants a great diamond with a small carat weight they can find it here. In traditional jewellery stores this is virtually impossible. With this new module we have added more value to our customers who have made us one of the leading jewellery e commerce sites in the world today.

The ease of shopping for high end jewelry like a ‘Solitaire Diamond Ring, at guaranteed low prices, right at the comfort of your homes, is taking the shopping experience to a different level. We invite you to experience our site and partake in the pleasure of next generation shopping experience!

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How will YOU Romance with Your WIFE like a King?

The word Jewelry is derived from the Latin word jocale, meaning "plaything," and the word jewel, which was anglicized in the 13th century from the Old French word jouel. In India Jewelery is written as Jewellery with an extra ‘L’.
The first signs of jewelry came from the people in Africa. Perforated beads made from snail shells have been found dating to 75,000 years ago at Blombos Cave. The first signs of established jewelry making in Ancient Egypt was around 3,000-5,000 years ago. The Egyptians preferred the luxury, rarity, and workability of gold over other metals.
The Greeks started using gold and gems in jewelry in 1600 BC, When Alexander the Great conquered the Persian empire in 331B.C., his domain extended from Greece to Asia Minor, Egypt, the Near East, and India. This unprecedented contact with distant cultures not only spread Greek styles across the known world, but also exposed Greek art and artists to new and exotic influences.
A wide variety of jewelry types were produced during this period called - The Hellenistic period. It is often considered a period of transition, sometimes even of decline or decadence, between the brilliance of the Greek Classical Era and the emergence of the Roman Empire. A wide variety of jewelry types were produced-earrings, necklaces, pendants, pins, bracelets, armbands, thigh bands, finger rings, wreaths, diadems, and other elaborate hair ornaments. Bracelets were often worn in pairs according to Persian fashion and jewelry was frequently produced in matched sets.
Many pieces were inlaid with pearls and dazzling gems or semiprecious stones - emeralds, garnets, carnelians etc. Artists also incorporated colorful enamel inlays that dramatically contrasted with their intricate gold settings. Gold was extensively used in a rich variety of chain necklaces which often consisted of highly intricate meshwork. The ever- growing taste for colour lead to the use of a variety of precious stones. Seen here is a 1st century BC gold mesh necklace inlaid with Emeralds and Mother of Pearls from Pompeii. It is now on display in The National Archeological Museum at Naples.
The Renaissance and exploration both had significant impacts on the development of jewelry in Europe. By the 17th century, increasing exploration and trade lead to increased availability of a wide variety of gemstones as well as exposure to the art of other cultures. The decorations were largely arrangements of gems and pearls on a gold base often embellished with filigree. The bezels were often raised encrusted with filigree, with claws to hold on to the stones. One of the frequently used ornaments of that period was the Brooch.
 By 15th and 17th century, jewelry was widely produced in Europe. The Cultural Revolution brought about huge changes in the jewelry making. Famous artists and painters also made designs for gold smiths and jewelers. Fine designs using a range of gemstones, enamel and gold appeared.  Pendant was a popular piece of jewelry, where baroque pearls were especially chosen so that their shapes would form an integral part of the composition. Seen here is a pendant of gold, enamel, precious stones and baroque pearls,( the torso is made of a single pearl) made in the late 16th century. It now rests in the, Victoria and Albert museum London.
Another masterpiece depicting the finesse is an Italianate jewel, oval in shape and decorated with enamel and gems, supporting a miniature sculpture of a nude woman waving a long scarf, with three large pearls hanging from the base, which is pinned to a sumptuously pearl embellished brim.
France once again held great balls and displayed an elegance and luxury, the like of which had not been seen for many years. The empress had a weakness for Pearls and Diamonds and as a result these two gemstones enjoyed a greater popularity in the second half of the century. Not this spectacular brooch (now in Louvre, Paris), entirely made up of exceptionally large diamonds, which were specially cut to shapes to fit the design. Large pins in designs imitating natural flowers returned to fashion at this period.
The rise in the standards of living in the 19th century, especially in the countries where the industrial revolution was most advanced, created a demand for the manufacture of jewelry at prices which were more acceptable to the newly prosperous middle class. So jewelry did not remain a fancy of just the royals anymore. Factors like electro gilding, increased production of imitation stones, cheaper alloys and use of machines increased the production at more affordable rates to the commoners.
Distinguished goldsmiths continued to flourish, however, as wealthier patrons sought to ensure that what they wore still stood apart from the jewellery of the masses, not only through use of precious metals and stones but also though superior artistic and technical work. In the United states, this period saw the founding in 1837 of Tiffany & Co. by Charles Lewis Tiffany. In France, Pierre Cartier founded Cartier SA in 1847, while 1884 saw the founding of Bulgari in Italy.
Van Cleef & Arpels is another legendary jewelry house from France that founded in 1896 by Salomon Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef. They were commissioned to design the crown for the Empress of Iran’s coronation in 1967. Arpels had to choose the stones from the royal treasury, from which he first chose the 150 carat Emerald to be the centre piece and then he choose the rest: 1469 diamonds, 36 rubies, 36 emeralds and 105 pearls.
The modern era saw the modernization of various products in every facets of life. In the area of fashion jewelry, quality ingenuity and hard work came into play beginning with the modern Europe. As social barriers are removed and cultural influences are shared the variety of styles available is abundant. The predominant style of spring may vary completely from the predominant style of autumn. Nevertheless the jewelry crafted during the Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco and Retro periods in particular are still popular today.
If you like our post than do not forget to refer our indian diamond jewellery website to your friends and colleagues.

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Diamond - The Ultimate Symbol of Love

Have you ever wondered why diamond is the most sort after gemstone, when it comes to expressing your love? Here are some facts that will renew your respect for this ultimate gemstone- It’s the hardest of the material on earth. They resist deterioration. That’s exactly why it’s the preferred gem for Engagement & Wedding Rings. You can be confident that the diamond you buy today will still shine as brilliantly when your great-grandchildren wear it. Natural Diamonds are the rarest of the gemstone available.


It takes about 1 billion to 3.3 billion years for Carbon-containing minerals to create diamond under high pressure and temperature, at depths of 140 to 190 kilometers below earth’s surface. Diamonds are brought close to the Earth surface through deep volcanic eruptions by magma. These are then mined out. You will be surprised to know that for every carat of rough diamonds recovered, more than 250 tonnes of ore have to be blasted, crushed and processed.Only 20% will be gem quality. Then they are cut and polished into the best shape and size that can be created without much wastage. This is where the shape of the diamond is decided that will best enhance its facets. Some popular shapes are Pear, square (Princess), Marquise. The most popular is the perfect ROUND Diamond. So the next  time you see a polished 1 carat, you know how much of resource has gone behind creating that perfect GEM. The defects and impurities in the diamonds create, the popular coloured diamonds.

Nitrogen is by far the most common impurity found in gem diamonds and is responsible for the yellow and brown color in diamonds. The other colours are green, pink, orange, black with Red being the rarest of the coloured diamond.

The purest diamond transmits visible light and appears as a clear colorless crystal.
It’s for these reasons that have been sought after, fought over and even worshiped, so it is only appropriate they have become- The Ultimate Symbol Of Love.
Now if  you are thinking of buying THAT PERFECT DIAMOND, you are about to enter an enchanted world with endless options to suit every pocket size and keep on exploring the website.

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