August 2004 NEWSLETTER
NEW “JEWEL”
“Long and slender, hinged on a slim wire. Simplicity expressed by a straight line” -ce
These earrings express elegance and grace with subtle movement. Whether you wear them at their most minimal (as shown) or embellish them with a few diamonds, these earrings sexily emphasize her neck.
CED – Events
Trunk shows are great opportunities to meet the designer, discuss your jewelry needs and explore the many wonderful jewelry possibilities. To schedule your personalized jewelry trunk show with friends, family and colleges and of course Claudia, call 800.313.9784 or contact us via e-mail atinfo@claudiaendlerdesigns.com
AUGUST’S FEATURE: BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER.
The Engagement Ring Phenomenon (Part III)
After addressing your budget in Part II, next in this series of the Engagement Ring Phenomenon is to address the quality of diamonds. The price of a diamond varies with quality and weight. Once the decision to purchase a diamond has been made, how do you decide on what quality of diamond to buy?
4 C’s of a Diamond
Carat Weight – One carat is 200 milligrams or 100 “points”. A .75 carat diamond is the same as a 75-points or � carat diamond. The price of diamonds increases exponentially as the stone gets larger, quality remaining constant. Hint: Size (referring to weight) is not always the most important characteristic. You should make sure you weigh all the factors, before making a decision. The mountings we create here at Claudia Endler Designs are known for making diamonds appear larger.
Clarity – Clarity describes the absence or presence of flaws, called inclusions. These take the form of minerals, fractures, crystals, clouds or feathers. The clarity scale ranges from Flawless (F) to Included (I), based on visibility at 10x magnification. Flawless (F) stones are very rare in nature and more valuable. The stone is also valued according to where the inclusion is located. In the case of the slightly included (SI) stone, the flaws may not be very noticeable, especially if it is located on a side where the mounting will cover the flaw. Hint: Most people, other than jewelers, do not walk around with a magnifying glass. Many times one cannot see the difference in clarity with the naked eye. Many people will purchase lower than (F) clarity for a higher carat weight or better color. If you purchase an emerald cut diamond, I would recommend something with very good clarity. The parallel facets on an emerald cut make the stone’s flaws more visible. With a round stone the flaws are less noticeable, since the facets are cut from the center out and there is generally more light dispersion.
Color – Color describes the degree to which the diamond is colorless. Ranging from (D) colorless to (Z). (D) is very rare and very valuable. (K) – (Z) show more and more yellow color in the stone. The subtle changes in color from one shade to another are best seen in good lighting, on white paper and with several different shades next to each other. Hint: Depending on the setting, (E) – (G) may still be seen as colorless, when set in white gold and platinum. A yellow gold setting will not show as much of a color contrast when getting into the stones with more yellow color.
Cut – Cut describes the proportions and angles with which the stone is cut. There are formulas that will bring out the most brilliance in a stone. There is often a misperception that a stone needs to be in a prong setting, so the light can come up through the bottom. The highly valued “ideal” cut stone will reflect light internally, from one facet to another and disperse it through the top. Hint: Some people neglect the cut as an important factor. In truth, if everything else is good, a poorly cut stone can detract from the brilliance of a diamond. It isn’t always necessary to go with the most ideal cut. There are degrees of well-cut stones. Just be aware that a stone that has been cut too shallowly or too deeply will leak brilliance through the bottom or side of the stone. If brilliance is important to you, avoid stones with dark centers and make sure the culet (the bottom point) is directly in the center of the stone.
THE FIFTH C: CLAUDIA ENDLER
- Stones of .50pts or higher are graded more intensely.
- Many stones come with GIA or EGL certifications. Meaning, the stone is graded according to the 4 C’s. The specific dimensions and any inclusions are plotted out and documented.
- Most people purchasing stones opt for more of a middle ground, something in the SI G-H color range and less than ideal cut.
- Look at several stones to get an idea of the different variations.
- When purchasing a stone consider the 4 C’s, but also consider the following:
- Does the stone speak to you?
- Does it feel right?
- Do you think it is beautiful?
- Are you happy with it?
- Does it fit your price range?
If you are making the decision to purchase a diamond, this is an exciting time for you. We are happy to show you a variety of stones that meet your specific needs and assist you with the diamond purchase. Feel free to contact us with any questions.
FROM ONE OF OUR CLIENTS:
“Thank you so much! You add so much beauty to my life. Your jewelry is exquisite! I truly admire your talent and will wear it forever.” Ania B., Graphic Designer
INDUSTRY NEWS:
The resolution of a 10 year old price-fixing case clears the way for diamond giant De Beers to directly enter the lucrative U.S. market, The Associated Press reports.
THE WAY OF CHIC: Knowledge is power. Knowledge is chic.
STYLE RECOGNITION: Because style is not just on the outside, it is a philosophy. A way of thinking. Taking a global “think tank” approach, The Echelon provides a one-of-a-kind concept for professional women who aspire to lead. Curious? I was. Contact Dr. Debra Davenport at 310.552.0710 or visitwww.davenportfolio.com.
For more information visit: www.claudiaendlerdesigns.com
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Thank you.
