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DIAMOND

The undeniable brilliance of Diamonds often makes them take centerstage. Used as an accent when creating colored gemstone jewelry, however, they generously lend their grace and sophistication without demanding unnecessary attention. “Chocolate diamonds compliment several of the gemstones I design with so well” notes Karin, “I love their warmth and richness. And, well, white diamonds are just the best!”

    Diamond FAQs

    Do you use real diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, or both?    

    • I very seldom use lab-grown diamonds.  Typically only when a private or custom client has requested them.

    Why are real diamonds better than lab grown diamonds?  

    • This is a major controversial subject in my industry currently!  I have a very strong opinion that I don’t mind offering.

      They are the “same” as a natural diamond meaning the have the same composition.  It takes some fairly expensive equipment to detect the difference.  They do NOT hold value like an earth-minded diamond.  They are tremendously less expensive and therefore allow a buyer to get a very large stone for a lot less money.  As technology for lab-grown diamonds has advanced, this has made the price per carat decrease even more.  To me, it is taking away from the exclusiveness and rarity of a natural, earth-mined diamond.  Additionally, Lab-grown diamonds should never be thought of an investment.  Unlike a natural diamond.


    What is the diamond color scale?

    • Colorless (D, E, F): The highest quality and rarest; appear icy white to the naked eye, ideal for platinum or white gold.

    • Near-Colorless (G, H, I, J): Excellent value; appear white to the eye, especially when set, and offer significant savings over D-F.

    • Faint/Light (K-Z): Distinctive warm, yellow, or brown tints become increasingly visible. 


    What is the diamond clarity scale?  

    • GIA Diamond Clarity Scale

    1. FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

    2. IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions, only surface blemishes.

    3. VVS1/VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Microscopic inclusions extremely difficult to see.

    4. VS1/VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Minor inclusions, usually invisible to the naked eye

    5. SI1/SI2 (Slightly Included): Noticeable inclusions under magnification, often eye-clean (especially SI1).

    6. I1, I2, I3 (Included): Obvious inclusions visible to the naked eye, potentially affecting transparency.


    Is a diamond technically a gemstone?  

    • Yes.

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