Diamonds are traditionally graded according to the famous “4 Cs“: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. However, traditional grading does not include the fancy natural colored diamonds that are becoming a popular jewelry trend. Fancy colored diamonds have been worn and collected for centuries, in fact the Rajah of Agra gave Babur, a Moghul Emperor, the light pink “Agra” diamond as a gift in 1526, and Babur wore the diamond in his turban for many years after.But it has only been in recent decades that enough natural colored diamonds are available to the commercial or consumer diamond market. There have been unfortunate developments in science that allow for the manufacture of colored diamonds in laboratories, simply by introducing various degrees of radiation to clear stones, and buyers must be aware of this and purchase loose diamonds or colored diamond jewelry only from reputable vendors. Continue reading »

Once upon time, the only place that you were likely to find a diamond was set in jewelry. While that still holds true to an extent today, things are changing. While industries have long used gemstones, diamonds specifically, in their processes and products, new applications are being developed for these stones. Continue reading »

Tirupati, known as the richest temple in India, is one of incredible cultural and philanthropic viewpoints. The history of this grand temple dates back centuries, having been a place where pilgrims would stand for hours just to catch a glimpse of the reigning deity living within the temple walls. Continue reading »

You may take for granted the rarity of a diamond mined and polished on earth. How rare is this precious item, especially when compared to extraterrestrial diamonds? While extraterrestrial diamonds would certainly be a rarity on earth, how would they compare to the diamond potential of other planets in our solar system? Continue reading »

Most individuals know that diamonds are available in a wide variety of different colors. In fact, natural diamonds can be found in almost any color that is imaginable. Some of the rarest types of diamonds are the blue and pink varieties, while the most common of the colored gemstones are the black and brown diamonds. The term “common” is used loosely when it comes to describing colored diamonds. Continue reading »

Black diamonds have been revered for their unique beauty for some time; however, it was only recently that scientists may have discovered the origin of these beauties. Continue reading »

Different types of jewelry do not only beautify and express creativity, but they also tell fabulous stories, such as those of the Aztecs.

The Aztecs were a nomadic Native American ethnic group who found their way to Mexico in the thirteenth century. Popular massive structures including pyramids, cities, and temples were built by the Aztecs in certain parts of Mexico.. By the fourteenth and the early fifteenth centuries, they established one of the most highly developed civilizations in Latin America. During their time, their cities were as large as those of Europe, and several Indian industries at present can be traced back to this tribe. Continue reading »

The dynamic trend of fashion has paved the way for the popularity of violet gems. With their vibrant hue that has been historically symbolic of the imminence of regal power and religiosity, violet gem stones are sure to continue stirring the voracious demand for colorful and stunning accessories. Affirming these gems’ supremacy is the Japan Jewelry Association’s bestowing of the Year Colour Stone of 2005 Award to purple gems.On top of this classy category is the amethyst, recognized as the queen of violet gems. Although this gem is commonly found as colorless pieces, it is the violet amethysts with sparkles of red or blue that are considered to be the most precious, and thus the most sought after. A unique feature of amethysts is that its color changes when a certain amount of heat is applied. This explains the onset of laboratory enhanced amethyst gems, the color and quality of which add to this gem’s kaleidoscopic color scheme. The amethyst is abundantly found in South America, in the nations of Brazil, Bolivia and Argentina. The amethysts produced by these countries are valued for their significantly larger size, compared to the pieces found in Africa and Canada. Continue reading »

Chinese jewelry, both of recent and early dates, showcases the well-known manipulative skill of the Chinese craftsmen. Yet the work of the goldsmith or lapidary, as applied to personal ornament, does not represent a distinctive branch of craft as it does in the West. Moreover, it is given no special attention by the native connoisseurs and writers on the arts.Most Chinese jewelry is made to complement the costume rather than adorn the person. They have an excessive and flimsy quality that is often not directly pleasing to Western eyes. In spite of this, Chinese jewelry still boasts some of the best designs in the world, featuring unique patterns and moldings in the form of bracelets, necklaces and pendants, as well as earrings, one of the most popular forms of ancient Chinese jewelry. Continue reading »

While the common trend of fashion across the globe banks on the psychedelic brilliance of colors, sporting the classic black radiates an incomparable elegance. Thus, the craze for black gems. Continue reading »