Edgy, exquisite and exotic – three words that can be used to describe black diamond rings. As this gem continues to grow in popularity, top name designers are using them in all their jewelry, from rings, to bracelets, to pendants, and even in belt and shoe buckles. People are finding that this beautiful stone will make a statement all on its own, but when combined with a white gold or yellow gold setting, it is truly unique. Black diamonds are mined in Brazil and the Central African Republic.
Many couples getting ready to walk down the aisle are looking for something a bit different and are turning to black diamond rings. Usually the bride will pair her black diamond with smaller colorless diamonds that will make a big statement. The groom tends to go for smaller black diamonds that are inserted into a traditional band; although some men will prefer one single large black diamond. Of course, these beautiful black diamond rings are not just for a bride and groom. They are something exotic to wear on your finger to a cocktail party; or choose a stunning design that looks great with business attire or even jeans.
If you are searching for the perfect gift for a friend, family member or loved one, black diamond rings are exquisite when paired with precious stones other than diamonds. They are truly beautiful surrounded by blue sapphires, rubies, or emeralds. The contrast between a black diamond and a white or pink pearl is stunning. Think in terms of when the person’s birthday is and combine a black diamond with their birthstone. Or give your significant other a gorgeous black diamond heart ring for an anniversary or for Valentine’s Day. Combine it with a ruby (or even a semi-precious garnet) for the holidays. The possibilities really are endless. And what woman doesn’t love receiving a sparkly token of your affection.
When choosing black diamond rings, look at the same considerations as when choosing a colorless diamond ring; color, clarity, carat and cut. Most black diamonds are treated by exposing them to high heat. Some come out of the ground a very dark midnight black, but these are quite rare. They should look glossy and sparkling and have no chips or cracks. Black diamonds are heavier than other diamonds, so a one carat black diamond will look somewhat smaller than a traditional diamond. Most black diamonds will have a simple cut of sixteen facets and the surface should be smooth. A well cut diamond will have an amazing brilliance and fire.
Whether you enjoy black diamond rings that stand alone or that are combined with other stones, you are sure to find an appealing and beautiful ring for yourself or a loved one. Black diamond rings are a luxurious ring that will make a powerful and dramatic statement and will truly be one of a kind!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The Four C's Of Black Diamond Rings
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 and have been around for quite some time, although they recently are gaining in popularity as celebrities and others are finding them to be edgy and unique. When you are 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 consider 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 colorless diamonds. 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 comes out of the ground that is naturally dark is rare and therefore more expensive. Most black diamond rings, necklaces, bracelets and pendants are treated by exposing them to high heat. There is nothing wrong with doing this and a treated stone is often of a better quality. 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 other types 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 mined from the earth, it simply 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 are in the market for a ring that is non-traditional and that will make a dramatic and powerful statement, black diamond rings could be just what you are looking for!
Color
People are discovering (unlike how they felt years ago) that a black diamond is a real diamond. They are crystallized carbon, just like colorless diamonds. 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 comes out of the ground that is naturally dark is rare and therefore more expensive. Most black diamond rings, necklaces, bracelets and pendants are treated by exposing them to high heat. There is nothing wrong with doing this and a treated stone is often of a better quality. 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 other types 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 mined from the earth, it simply 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 are in the market for a ring that is non-traditional and that will make a dramatic and powerful statement, black diamond rings could be just what you are looking for!
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