DIAMOND JEWELLERY GUIDE

THE HISTORY OF DIAMONDS

Diamonds have been treasured since ancient times, valued for their rarity, durability, and sparkle. Throughout history, they’ve symbolised eternal love and commitment, making them the most sought-after gemstone for engagement and wedding jewellery.

 

THE MEANING OF DIAMONDS

Known as the “stone of invincibility,” diamonds represent purity, strength, and everlasting devotion. Their enduring symbolism makes them a meaningful choice for gifts that mark life’s most important milestones.

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THE 4'C - WHAT TO KNOW

When choosing a diamond, jewellers often refer to the “4Cs”:

• Cut – The way a diamond is cut determines how it reflects light and sparkles.

• Colour – Diamonds range from colourless (the rarest and most valuable) to warm champagne tones.

• Clarity – Natural inclusions form as diamonds grow; clarity measures how free a stone is from these.

• Carat – This refers to the weight (and size) of the diamond, with larger stones being rarer.
   

WHY DIAMONDS ENDURE

Diamonds are prized not only for their beauty but also for their resilience, the hardest natural material on Earth, they are designed to last a lifetime. This makes them the ultimate choice for jewellery meant to be worn, loved, and passed down through generations.

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CARING FOR YOUR DIAMOND JEWELLERY

To keep your diamond jewellery sparkling:

• Clean regularly with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.

• Store separately to avoid scratching softer gemstones.

• Have pieces checked occasionally by a jeweller to ensure settings remain secure.

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DIAMOND CUTS

The cut of a diamond has the greatest influence on its beauty, as it determines how well the stone reflects light and sparkles. While the modern round brilliant is the most popular today, antique and vintage jewellery often features unique cuts that tell a story of craftsmanship and style from their era.

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Popular Antique & Vintage Diamond Cuts:

• Old Mine Cut – Popular in Georgian and Victorian jewellery, this early cushion-shaped cut has larger facets and a warm, romantic glow. Its charm lies in its hand-cut character, often found in Victorian diamond rings.

• Old European Cut – Favoured from the late 19th to early 20th century, especially in Edwardian and Art Deco diamond rings. Round in shape with big facets, these stones create a soft, candlelight sparkle.

• Rose Cut – Recognisable by its flat base and domed top, this cut was popular in Georgian and Victorian eras. With its subtle shimmer, it remains sought after in antique rings and earrings.

• Single Cut – Often used in the Art Deco period to add elegant sparkle to intricate geometric designs. These smaller stones with 17 facets are commonly seen in vintage jewellery settings.

• Modern Round Brilliant – Perfected in the early 20th century, this cut maximises brilliance and fire. It became the standard in mid-century engagement rings and remains the most popular choice today.

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Each cut has its own personality, from the romantic glow of a Victorian rose-cut diamond to the dazzling precision of an Art Deco old European cut. Choosing a cut isn’t just about sparkle, but about connecting with the story and era behind the piece.

 

Whether you are searching for the perfect diamond engagement ring, a sparkling wedding band, or a thoughtful anniversary gift, understanding the story and qualities of diamonds will help you choose a piece that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.