Posts Tagged ‘ jewelry ’

What Are The Best Diamond & Gem Certification Agencies? – Jewelry 101

March 29, 2012
What Are The Best Diamond & Gem Certification Agencies? – Jewelry 101

When you’re looking to buy, sell or know more about a particular gem , a certification report is the best starting point. A certification can help you understand a gem’s cut, clarity, carat, clarity and other qualities — all important when determining how much a diamond or other precious gem is worth. Here’s a quick guide to the most trusted gem certification institutes and how they evaluate a diamond , colored diamond , ruby , sapphire or emerald. Two certified gems from the Diamond & Estate Trust collection: a diamond, left, and a sapphire. Gemological Institute of America (GIA) The GIA is the most well-known institute for grading and evaluating diamonds , colored stones and pearls. A nonprofit institute, GIA has been providing reports on the quality of diamonds, colored stones and pearls since 1931. It’s considered to have the highest standards of all the major gem certification agencies. What you’ll find in a GIA report The GIA objectively compares and evaluates diamonds using the 4 C’s : carat, color, clarity and cut. It developed the 4C system in the 1940s, and has been using it ever since. The GIA’s color grading scale for diamonds ranges from D to Z, with D, the closest to colorless, being the most coveted grade. The GIA determines how many blemishes and inclusions a diamond has on a scale of flawless (most desirable) to included (least desirable). The institute grades cut based on how a diamond reflects light, the dispersion of that light, and the how much a diamond sparkles when it’s moved. You’ll also find grading for polish, symmetry and fluorescence in a GIA report. The GIA grades colored gems including colored diamonds , rubies and sapphires based on weight, facet angles and proportions. It also determines the gem’s origin and whether the gem was heated, or artificially treated, to achieve its color. The GIA has a separate color grading system for colored diamonds that ranges from vivid (most valuable) to light (least valuable). A GIA report also includes a diamond’s shape, measurements, weight, depth percentage, table percentage, girdle thickness, culet size, and general comments about the gem that was evaluated. A certified pear shaped diamond, left, and a certified ruby, both from the Diamond & Estate Trust collection. American Gem Society (AGS) The AGS is a nonprofit trade organization founded in 1934. Its membership includes fine jewelers, jewelry designers and jewelry suppliers throughout the U.S. The AGS has been certifying and grading diamonds and other gems since 1996. What you’ll find in an AGS report The AGS uses the 4C criteria for determining the quality of a diamond or gem. But one aspect that makes the AGS different is that it uses a scale of 0 to 10 for its cut, color and clarity grades. For cut, 0 is ideal and 10 is poor; for color, 0 is equivalent to the GIA’s D colorless grade; and for clarity, 0 matches the GIA flawless/internally flawless grade (I/IF). A colorless diamond with the finest cut grade and no blemishes or inclusions would get the “000” AGS grade. AGS also provides information on shape, weight and measurements. It gives a more in-depth view than the GIA on pavilion and crown angles. Gueblin Gem Lab The Gueblin Gem Lab dates back to the early 19 th Century, and has been providing scientific evaluations of gems since the 1960s. Two of the lab’s first gem report clients were luxury jewelry auction houses Christie’s and Sotheby’s. What you’ll find in a Gueblin report For diamonds, Gueblin uses the 4C scale developed by the GIA. It also provides table and depth percentages, information on girdle and culet, and a commentary on a diamond’s fluorescence. Gueblin also identifies origin , species and treatments (if any) for colored gems such as rubies and sapphires . A certified Asscher cut diamond, left, and a certified Kashmir sapphire, both from Diamond & Estate Trust. European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) The EGL is a for-profit company that certifies diamonds and colored gems around the world. It is known for having less strict standards than the GIA when evaluating a diamond or gem. Like the GIA, the EGL grades diamonds , colored diamonds , rubies, sapphires and other colored stones. What you’ll find in an EGL report An EGL report grades a diamond on the 4Cs using the same scales developed by the GIA. It also provides an in-depth look at a gem’s proportions, including its depth, table, crown, pavilion, girdle and culet. International Gemological Institute (IGI) The IGI is the largest independent laboratory for grading and evaluating jewelry and gems, and has been in existence for about 30 years. It’s considered to have more lenient standards than the GIA. What you’ll find in an IGI report The IGI grades using the same 4C scales as the GIA. Like the AGS, the IGI also provides more in-depth information on a gem’s crown and pavilion angles than the GIA does. Looking to buy a certified diamond , ruby or sapphire ? Diamond & Estate Trust has a wide range of certified diamonds and colored gems that you can trust to be of the highest quality imaginable. We use our discerning eye to select only the most exquisite gems for our collection , which is one of the finest examples of luxury jewelry in Southern California. Read more from the original source: What Are The Best Diamond & Gem Certification Agencies? – Jewelry 101

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Marilyn Monroe – Jewelry Icon

February 6, 2012
Marilyn Monroe – Jewelry Icon

When it comes to exquisite luxury jewelry, no woman shines more brilliantly than Marilyn Monroe. Decades after romancing the world with “ Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” and shaking up the jewelry scene, Marilyn Monroe continues to be the most emulated woman on the planet. By the early 1950s, Marilyn Monroe had already captivated the public with her signature blonde hair, white dress and seductive persona. But it was 1953’s “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” that marked Marilyn Monroe’s ascension into jewelry stardom and made her a coveted spokeswoman for many of the era’s most in vogue designers. In the famous scene where she sings, “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend,” Marilyn takes the precious gem to new heights: With thick diamond bangles layered over long pink gloves, a statement necklace with oversized diamonds and large diamond earrings, Marilyn is a vision of lavish jewelry. And it is only fitting that Norma Jean wore the most stunning piece from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” to the movie’s premier: The Moon of Baroda, a breathtaking 24.04 carat pear-shaped yellow diamond once worn by Marie Antoinette. That necklace is the ultimate statement of Marilyn’s icon status. When Marilyn wore diamonds, the world took notice.  So it’s no surprise that from that point on, Marilyn became the ultimate spokeswoman for diamond jewelry . Although her personal collection included mostly costume jewelry, she was able to develop her signature lavish style with the help of luxury jewelry giants such as Da Beers, who always ensured Marilyn was donning exquisite diamonds during public events. Stunning earrings, sleek necklaces and brilliant flashes of light followed her every footstep and featured prominently in her other landmark film, “Some Like It Hot.” The icon wore so many diamonds throughout her career that she received an award from the Jewelry Academy accompanied with the following note: “To Marilyn Monroe, the best friend a diamond ever had.” One notable piece in Marilyn Monroe’s personal jewelry collection is a platinum and diamond eternity band featuring 35 baguette diamonds around the band, given to her by Joe DiMaggio after their wedding in 1954. Recognizing Marilyn’s love for pearls, DiMaggio also presented his bride with a 16-inch strand of pearls featuring 44 exquisite Mikimoto pearls. The Golden Globe nominated film “My Week With Marilyn” is the latest testament to Marilyn Monroe’s timeless style. In the movie, Oscar Nominee Michelle Williams emulates Marilyn’s flair for decadent jewelry to a T. And the fabulous Vogue photos of Michelle dressed as Marilyn are just as stunning. From the famous earrings with strands of dangling diamonds to the feminine diamond bracelets, Williams captured the essence of the style for which Marilyn Monroe is still remembered – and emulated –today. From the stunning Moon of Baroda to the heavy, bold-impact diamond necklaces, Marilyn Monroe’s love affair with diamonds is one for the ages. Diamond & Estate Trust’s collection of loose diamonds , including colored diamonds, and exquisite vintage earrings and necklaces will help you capture the best of Marilyn Monroe’s style. Go here to read the rest: Marilyn Monroe – Jewelry Icon

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2012 SAG Awards – Jewelry Forecast

January 30, 2012
2012 SAG Awards – Jewelry Forecast

At the 2011 Screen Actors Guild Awards, dazzling earrings lit up the Red Carpet. And if recent jewelry trends are any indicator, statement earrings will figure just as prominently on the ears of Hollywood leading ladies at this weekend’s 2012 Screen Actors Guild Awards. Here are some luxurious looks from last year’s event that we wouldn’t mind seeing on the SAG Red Carpet again this year. Natalie Portman, left, and January Jones wore colored diamond earrings with grace at the 2011 Screen Actors Guild Awards. The jewelry world is still buzzing about Natalie Portman’s stunning yellow diamond earrings. The drop earrings featured the best of Tiffany design: Magnificently cut fancy yellow pear-shaped diamonds totaling 27 carats, a crystal-clear white diamond at the earring’s base and a graceful platinum setting that magnified the rare color of the yellow diamonds. These $2 million stunners were by the far the most breathtaking jewelry statement at the 2011 SAG Awards. January Jones also chose colored diamonds to complete her look at the 2011 SAG Awards. Her 8 carat black diamond stud earrings from luxury designer Lorraine Schwartz were effortlessly rich. The dramatic pair added the perfect touch of nighttime glamour to January’s black and gold lace Caroline Herrera dress. Amy Adams chose earthy earrings from Kimberly McDonald to accent her white dress at the 2011 Screen Actors Guild Awards. Our award for the night’s best modern earring look goes to Amy Adams. Her tribal-inspired earrings featured diamonds in a modern, uniquely shaped white gold setting. With an organic aesthetic and luxurious diamond borders, these Kimberly McDonald earrings added sophistication to Amy Adams’ white Hevre Leoux dress. And her ring was just as eclectically chic: With white diamonds encircling a geode, fire opal and baroque pearl, this piece made a glamorous, nature-inspired statement. A stunningly designed pair of earrings can elevate even the most beautiful Red Carpet look. We’re excited to see how Hollywood’s leading ladies accessorize at this weekend’s 2012 SAG Awards. Check back here on Monday for our recap of the night’s most exquisite jewelry. And remember: You don’t need to be at an awards show to make a Red Carpet statement. Diamond & Estate Trust’s premier collection of diamonds , colored diamonds , rubies , sapphires , emeralds, estate jewelry and signature pieces will help you find your inner luxury and sophistication. Originally posted here: 2012 SAG Awards – Jewelry Forecast

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What is a Cushion Cut- Jewelry 101

January 24, 2012
What is a Cushion Cut- Jewelry 101

The cushion cut is often called the candlelight cut – a moniker that refers to the delicate work 19 th Century jewelers would perform by candlelight to hand-cut this shape’s stunning facets. But there’s another reason the nickname fits: The superbly shaped cushion cut diamond has all the subtle romance and luster of a candlelit evening. A 4.51 carat cushion cut diamond from the Diamond & Estate Trust collection. The cushion cut , an antique cut also called the pillow cut, was the most vogue gem style in the 19 th Century and has seen its popularity soar again recently due to its timeless, soft shape. A cross between the Old Mine Cut and the oval cut, the cushion cut diamond has dozens of large facets that give it its characteristic soft glow. That glow is often lost in fiery, modern cuts that are instead designed to return as much light to the eye as possible in quick flashes. A cushion cut’s facet plan gives the shape its endless depth and luster, and rounded corners provide a graceful, polished look. Look for the cushion cut in shapes ranging from rectangular to square. Two GIA certified cushion cut diamonds from the Diamond & Estate Trust collection. The cushion cut’s effortless romance and charm has made it a popular engagement ring cut for a century, with luxury jewelers such as Tiffany and Harry Winston pairing the unique shape with timeless settings. Owners of the world’s most famous gemstones have also trusted the cushion cut to amplify the beauty of their magnificent jewels. The Hope Diamond , the yellow Tiffany Diamond and the 423 carat Logan Sapphire, the largest cut blue sapphire in the world, all feature cushion cuts that matches their regal, exquisite beauty. Its timeless look and appeal make the cushion cut a strong investment in your jewelry collection’s future. Diamond & Estate Trust has a collection of exquisite cushion cut gems, including a GIA certified 4.51 carat cushion cut diamond in a classic square shape, a GIA certified 4.01 carat cushion cut diamond with a striking blue fluorescence, and a luxurious, GIA certified 5.01 carat rectangular cushion cut diamond . These diamonds are stunning on their own but would make an even bolder statement as the focal point of a custom piece . Make Diamond & Estate Trust your trusted diamond and vintage jewelry seller in Los Angeles and Southern California. With a vast collection of diamonds , rubies , sapphires and emeralds, as well as estate jewelry and watches, Diamond & Estate Trust can help you find the perfect signature piece for any occasion. Continued here: What is a Cushion Cut- Jewelry 101

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D&ET Jewelry 101: How To Buy Sapphires and Rubies

December 20, 2011
D&ET Jewelry 101: How To Buy Sapphires and Rubies

9.75 Carat Kashmir AGL 2010 No Heat Sapphire Two of the four precious stones, Sapphires and Rubies are closely related, both in terms of their tremendous aesthetic appeal as colored, precious gemstones, and their origin. Both Sapphires and Rubies come from the mineral corundum and are usually found in the same geographic areas when they occur naturally. They are also the hardest natural gemstone after diamonds. Sapphires and Rubies have long captivated because of their otherworldly beauty. The term, Sapphire, has a rich cultural heritage, with origins in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, old Iranian, and most notably Sanskrit, which translates into “precious to Saturn” (shanipriya). Ruby more simply hails from the Latin word Rubens, which means red. 5.19 Pigeons Blood Ruby Ring When choosing a colored gemstone such as a Sapphire or Ruby, in addition to carat, cut, and clarity, one must consider the three elements of color: hue, saturation and tone. Hue is the color of a gemstone, saturation is the vividness of the stone, and tone refers to the contrast between light and darkness in the stone. When considering a Blue Sapphire, the primary color is blue. The bluer the stone, the more valuable. Common secondary hues in a Sapphire are purple, violet and green, with purple and violet being more acceptable, and green being negative. The higher the percentage of the primary color (blue) the more valuable the stone. It requires a very skilled cutter to cut a Sapphire or Ruby exactly the right way to bring out its most favorable color. When considering a Ruby, the richer the color, the more valuable the stone. The most valuable Ruby is the pigeon blood-red. The most favorable undertone in a Ruby is violet, because it enhances the richness of the primary red color. Sapphires also come in colors other than blue (pink, orange, and beyond); however, we’ll save that for another post. To understand the value of a stone, one must also consider its origin. Although Sapphires occur naturally around the world (Australia, Africa, Thailand, Burma, Vietnam) the most prestigious and highly coveted sapphires are the Kashmir Sapphires, also known as Kashmiri Sapphires, which were discovered in Kashmir in 1880 after a landslide. Kashmir Sapphires are a pure intense blue. Other highly coveted Sapphires hail from Burma (Burmese Sapphires) and also Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). The most valuable Rubies are Burmese Rubies, which hail from Burma (now Myanmar). They can also be found in Thailand, India, Nepal and the United States. 9.32 Burma Sapphire No Heat Make sure, when selecting a Sapphire or Ruby, to ask whether it has been heat treated (which lowers its value compared to a natural gemstone). Also make sure you are purchasing a natural, rather than an artificial or synthetic, stone. Famous naturally occurring Sapphires include the 423 carat Logan Sapphire on display at the Smithsonian, the Star of Asia, a 116 carat stone on display at the American Museum of Natural History, and the St. Edward’s and the Stuart Sapphire (104 carats), which are part of the English crown jewels. Also at the Smithsonian is a 23.1 carat Burmese ruby donated by philanthropist Peter Buck and Gerard & Co’s 40.63 heart-shaped Ruby. Looking for a last minute holiday gift that will make a lasting impact? Diamond & Estate Trust has a tremendous collection of rare, high-value Blue Sapphires and Rubies, including Kashmiri Sapphires and Burmese Rubies. Contact us for a private appointment to view any of the gems in this post or to see the rest of our collection. Read more: D&ET Jewelry 101: How To Buy Sapphires and Rubies

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Suspects Caught on Camera During Jewelry Store Robbery NR11380SF

August 29, 2011
Suspects Caught on Camera During Jewelry Store Robbery NR11380SF

Los Angeles: On Tuesday, August 16, 2011, at 11 am, three male Black suspects entered a jewelry store located in the 3200 block of Wilshire Boulevard. One of the suspects held the security guard at gun point while the other two smashed the glass jewelry cases with a hammer. During the robbery, the suspects removed thousands of dollars worth of jewelry from the display cases. The suspects then ran out the back door. Outside the store, they encountered the parking lot security guard, a male Korean, who they bludgeoned in an attempt to escape. The suspects then tried to carjack a vehicle driven by a Korean woman but were unsuccessful. The suspects then carjacked a Korean man for his 2001 white GMC Savana van with a California License Plate 6T97736. A third vehicle, a green Toyota van was seen leaving the scene by the third suspect. The stolen green van was reported earlier to police and was found abandoned about one mile away from the jewelry store. For reference, the parking lot security guard was initially listed in critical condition and is now in stable condition. The following are descriptions of the wanted suspects: * Suspect 1: Male Black approximately 20-25 years-old, 5’08”-6’00” tall and weighed approximately 180-200 pounds. Suspect 1 was seen wearing dark pants, white, long sleeve hooded shirt with blue jeans. * Suspect 2: Male Black approximately 20-25 years-old, 5’08”-6’00” tall and weighed approximately 180-200 pounds. Suspect 2 was seen wearing a grey hoodie …

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