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Antique Diamond Rings Can Be A Girl's Oldest Friend

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Written by Grace Jennings

Friday, 06 June 2008

by GraceJennings

While many jewelry collectors prefer antique diamond rings, untreated diamonds are considered rare and are more expensive than their treated counterparts. In fact, untreated stones continue to rise in market value while treated gems keep gaining popularity because they are so much more affordable. For those lucky enough to own an untreated diamond, having a trusted jeweler in your court is essential. Such a jeweler can provide information about your stone's value, history and other facts you'll want to know.

Early on in the history of diamonds, only royalty were allowed to wear the precious stones. In fact, kings were allowed to possess diverse colors while others were allowed to wear only the color awarded to their caste. Although unproven, the assigned color is believed to have been associated with such things as invulnerability, lightning, magic, healing, protection and poisoning.

In order for a diamond ring to be considered an antique, it must be over 100 years old and have belonged to one ot the historical periods in Europe. Of course today anyone can wear these precious stones. However, to own a piece of history from the days when only royalty could possess the dazzling gems is a rare treat for the average person.

Antique diamonds have withstood the test of time and it's not uncommon for an engagement ring to be passed down within families for multiple generations. Based on these sentimental values of keeping heirlooms in the family, presenting an antique engagement ring to a bride-to-be can be a sensitive issue. In the act of sentiment, the receiver should be considered as well as the desire to keep up family tradition.

Not only are diamonds known for their beauty and symbol of eternal love, they have time-tested strength and durability. Natural diamonds have proven to withstand knocks and scratches of everyday life inflicted over years of wear. By contrast, their treated counterparts have not been given this same test of time for the obvious reason they have not been around as long.

When it comes to choosing the right diamond, remember that your choice will be just as individual as the person receiving it. There's no diamond style that is a perfect one-size-fits-all, so use your knowledge of the individual and take the time to understand what have the most meaning to them.

If a flush setting is used, the diamond is set securely and presents a smooth appearance. This type of mounting is recommended for anyone who does a lot of work with their hands. The flush setting is generally more expensive than the prong setting, but the stone receives more protection with this option.

When it comes to determining value, a knowledgeable salesperson can be of assistance in judging cut, clarity, carat and color qualities. Preference should be given to experienced jewelers. In fact, if you purchase a diamond outside the normal outlets, it's a smart idea to have a trusted jeweler evaluate the diamond either before you purchase it or within the return period.

Once you have sorted through your options for antique diamond rings and found the one you want, be sure to take proper steps to care for it. Diamonds tend to attract grease and oils naturally so always remove them when using hand lotions or creams and keep them clean with a mild cleaning from time to time.

About the Author:

Looking for Georgian Antique Jewelry from 1837 and earlier? Shop MyDiamondSpree.com for the best jewelry auctions each and every day.

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