Diamonds—Winning the April Birthstone Lottery

No boasting, April birthday folks! You’ve got the ultimate prize of all birthstones—the diamond. These “tears of the gods” are not only billions of years old; due to their structure, one that’s cut and polished correctly can sparkle more than any other gem.

Some diamond facts from the American Gem Society

• This is the hardest gemstone—made only of one element, carbon. A diamond can only be scratched by another diamond.
• Diamonds come in several colors, including brown, yellow, red, pink, blue, and green. These gems, called “fancy” diamonds, are very desirable right now.
• Generally speaking, the more saturated the stone’s color, the higher its value.
• Because more customers are looking for colored diamonds, some are color-treated in a laboratory.

Diamond “Did you knows”

• Every diamond, like a snowflake, is unique, with its own combination of characteristics.
• The largest diamond, the Cullinan, weighed 3,106 carats—it was cut into 9 large stones, 3 of which are crown jewels.
• These gems, formed under the earth’s surface, are sometimes spewed out in volcanic eruptions.
• The word diamond comes from the Greek “adamas,” which means indestructible.
• Early Romans and Greeks believed diamonds were the tears of the gods or splinters from falling stars.
• The first recorded use of a diamond as an engagement ring was in 1477, when Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave one to Mary of Burgundy.

Buying diamonds: The 4Cs

We’ve discussed these before; for more information on any of the 4Cs, go to the source of diamond info, the GIA. In fact, they have a whole Buyer’s Guide on the subject.

• Diamonds are judged by their color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
• You can make your diamond engagement stone look bigger if there’s a halo of smaller, sparkling diamonds or pave diamonds around the center stone.
• Choose a reputable jeweler, and make sure you get a “Diamond grading report,” which verifies what you’re buying.

Cleaning your diamond jewelry

According to the GIA, a stone without any inclusions or treatments can be put in an ultrasonic cleaner. To be sure, however, wipe it down with warm water, mild soap, and a soft toothbrush (or a commercial jewelry cleaning solution).

It’s important to have your diamonds examined periodically to make sure the setting is still intact to reduce the chance of losing a stone. Your jeweler can professionally clean your pieces at the same time.

Get diamond birthstone jewelry that fits your style, your personality, and your budget. And make sure to get an independent appraisal and insurance to protect your new or heirloom pieces from accidents or loss. I can help. Contact me with questions or to set up an appointment at 617-304-0174 or at aimee@ambappraisal.com.

Diamonds are EVERYONE’S best friend! Enjoy your ultimate sparklies.

Brilliantly yours, Aimee