Gem dandy: What you need to know about diamonds
There may be a shift toward coloured diamonds and gemstones for engagement rings, but that doesn’t mean colourless diamonds are out of style.
Charles Stanley, president of Forevermark US, says the classic stones are as popular as they always were with shoppers — with a few twists coming in the form of non-traditional, “fancy” cuts.
Stanley chatted with Postmedia News about gem trends, finding the perfect stone and which “C” is the most important to pay attention to when purchasing: colour, clarity, cut or carat.
Ring shoppers, listen up.
Q Why is it that colourless diamonds are so iconic?
A For centuries, diamonds have been an enduring symbol of love and commitment. Formed billions of years ago deep within the earth, they are the perfect symbol to represent life’s most important, eternal promises.
Q How important are the Cs of diamonds?
A When buying a diamond, is helpful to know a bit about the four Cs. However, they only tell part of a diamond’s story. The four Cs represent only four of the many characteristics that determine a diamond’s beauty. Every diamond is as unique as a snowflake.
Q What makes a Forevermark diamond different?
A Forevermark goes beyond the technical qualities of the four Cs to hand select only those diamonds that are truly beautiful. Of all the world’s diamonds, less than one per cent is worthy of the Forevermark inscription.
Q And is there one “C” that’s most important?
A Cut refers to the cutting of the diamond, the most crucial stage in the revelation of its polished brilliance, fire and scintillation. A well-cut diamond will reflect light within itself, from one mirror-like facet to another — this is what makes a diamond sparkle.
Q Is there a diamond cut that’s more timeless than others?
A Round-brilliant cut diamonds have traditionally been the most popular and the most classic choice, particularly for engagement rings. In recent years, however, fancy shapes, like the ones in the Forevermark Black Label Collection, have gained prominence and now account for 50 per cent of the diamond engagement-ring market.
Q Why do you think fancy shapes are so popular?
A When shopping for a diamond engagement ring, millennials are looking for something different, something that is as unique as their love, and many are opting for fancy-shaped diamonds. Particularly, oval and cushionshaped diamonds have become increasingly popular — they have a similar look to a classic round brilliant, but allow the wearer to express their individuality.
Q Lastly, if budget is a consideration, how important is it to invest in the best quality possible, rather than a bigger, less perfect option?
A The quality of a diamond is incredibly important. Ultimately, a person should purchase a diamond that they find truly beautiful, and remember, when giving the gift of forever, only the best will do.