Chances are that when a man hears the word
"diamond," his favorite baseball team's field comes to mind rather
than that precious gem that every woman dreams of wearing. There is no denying,
buying a diamond is a major league gift-giving event, and there are important
rules to this game to ensure all bases are covered.
Rule #1: Dazzle her with a diamond.
Diamonds dazzle like nothing else can. Looking to take her
breath away? A diamond symbolizes deep love and a readiness to commit – the
very thing for which she may be waiting for.
Simple or elaborate, a diamond makes every occasion special. Even more
impressive, diamonds can imply extravagance, but there are also huge assortments
of exceptional quality stones to meet every budget.
Rule #2: Understand the 4Cs.
Most men put a lot of thought into popping the big question
- and so they also should with the purchase of a ring. Being an educated
shopper begins with the 4 Cs of diamonds: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight.
These factors determine value and are important to discovering what appeals to
the buyer when selecting a diamond, and then getting the most for the money.
Rule #3: Mark the years in stone.
Is one diamond ever enough? Men also hit a home run with the
woman in their lives by marking a significant (or not so significant)
anniversary with the diamond anniversary ring. From a three-stone ring that
sparkles with the past, present and future, or a classic eternity ring,
diamonds are a hands-down sentimental favorite.
Rule #4: A diamond is a wish come true.
What a better way to make her feel special than with the
gift of diamonds. Consider classic stud earrings for the perfect birthday
present or a classic princess-cut solitaire pendant which she can show off to
family and friends. Other hot picks include a diamond bracelet or perhaps a
diamond and sapphire heart locket.
Rule #5: Surprise her!
Diamond jewelry is special in that it conveys feelings
without saying words. Considered a priceless stone, the diamond symbolizes the
value of the wearer. And it doesn't have to be a special occasion – why not
really surprise her with diamonds "just because"?
Rule #6: Size isn't the only thing that matters.
Consider an example of two diamond rings - each weigh
one-carat, however one costs quite a bit more. Once a buyer understands how the
characteristics of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight affect price, it will
be easier to compare the choices available in a selected price range.
Rule #7: Follow her lead.
Before making a jewelry purchase, pay close attention to her
likes and dislikes. What type of jewelry does she prefer? Contemporary?
Classic? Traditional? Does she prefer gold to platinum? Does she rave over that
rock accentuated by baguette diamonds, or get dreamy over an elegant diamond
solitaire ring? Enlist the help of friends and family when it comes to
preferences and ring size.
Rule #8: Get a second opinion.
Still unsure? Bring along a friend or family member for
another opinion. In the end, choose what moves you, what she will love the
most, and what fits most comfortably in your budget.
Rule #9: Buy from a respected diamond jeweler.
Purchase diamond jewelry from a jeweler that offers diamonds
certified by leading grading laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of
America or the American Gem Society.
This will ensure your purchase was accurately graded.
The following are some of the more
popular setting styles:
Solitaire
Solitaire settings are a popular
diamond engagement ring setting. The head secures the diamond. The prongs allow
the diamond to catch the most light. A four-prong setting shows more of the
diamond, but a six-prong setting is often more secure.
Settings with Sidestones
Settings with sidestones, such as
diamonds or gemstones, add additional sparkle or color. Popular sidestone
settings are channel, which protects stones by keeping them flush, and
bar-channel, which allows more light to enter the sidestones.
Three-Stone Settings
Three-Stone settings have one
diamond for the past, one for the present, and one for the future. Typically
the center diamond is larger than the two side stones.
Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry
the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and
Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more
information, contact Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor,
Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit http://www.pandorabraceletsusa.com. |
