Blog
Diamond Diaries
Insider knowledge and inspiration for fine jewelry lovers
Blog
Diamond Diaries
Insider knowledge and inspiration for fine jewelry lovers
What is a Basket Ring Setting?
A basket setting is a type of prong setting that includes traditional prongs extending up from the band of the ring, but also has horizontal bands wrapping around the prongs creating a “basket” for the center stone to sit in. When viewed from the top, prong and basket settings are practically indistinguishable, but there are […]
January 26, 2023

What is a Basket Ring Setting?
A basket setting is a type of prong setting that includes traditional prongs extending up from the band of the ring, but also has horizontal bands wrapping around the prongs creating a “basket” for the center stone to sit in. When viewed from the top, prong and basket settings are practically indistinguishable, but there are […]
January 26, 2023
What is a Modern Brilliant Cut Diamond?
A brilliant cut is a type of diamond cut characterized by its multiple facets, which are designed to maximize the stone’s sparkle, fire, and scintillation. The modern brilliant cut has been hundreds of years in the making, and is one of the most popular and widely used diamond cuts which can be used for stones […]
April 24, 2023
What is a Transitional Cut Diamond?
Transitional cut diamonds bridged the gap in the 1930’s and 1940’s between the handcut chunkier facets of old mine and European cut diamonds. Rather than being cut to sparkle in candlelight as their predecessors, the transitional cut’s focus was on symmetry and uniformity, and paved the way for the precision of today’s modern round brilliant, […]
April 18, 2023
What is a European Cut Diamond?
Evolved from the old mine diamond cut which was popular in the late 18th century, the old European diamond cut was common during the Art Deco period in the 1920’s and 1930’s. European cuts are round, unlike the old mine cuts which are square, but both shapes were cut and polished by hand and have […]
April 10, 2023
What is an Old Mine Cut Diamond?
Old mine cut diamonds have a soft and beautiful appearance that dates back to an era when stones were cut and polished by hand. These diamonds have a squarish shape, smaller table, and curved edges, resembling a modern cushion-cut with a vintage touch. They were designed to sparkle by candlelight and shine in a different […]
April 3, 2023
How To Wear An Initial Necklace
Initial and nameplate jewelry are one of the most fashionable ways that monograms show up in today’s latest trends, but the concept is far from being something new. From ancient Egyptian pharaohs to the Victorain age to hip hop culture, donning initials, names and phrases on rings and necklaces has been a way for individuals, […]
March 27, 2023
What is Tsavorite?
A newer gemstone on the market, Tsavorite is the stunning green variety of the grossular group of garnets. These rare gems are more affordable than emeralds, are free from inclusions, have a naturally vivid light to deep green hue and are durable enough for everyday wear. If you’re considering a green stone, Tsavorite is worth […]
March 20, 2023
Are Toggle Clasps Secure for a Necklace?
Toggle clasps have two pieces, a thick bar and a circle that fit together and are widely used to secure both necklaces and bracelets. While not as secure as clasps that have a lock-type closure, toggles are much easier to use especially with one hand. Toggles are available in different sizes and styles and also […]
March 13, 2023
How Should an Engagement Ring Fit?
An engagement ring that fits properly should slide smoothly down your finger and over your knuckle without having to be forced when you put it on. It should fit snugly at the bottom of your finger without leaving deep indentations, discolorations or feeling too tight, and come off without having to pull at it excessively. […]
March 6, 2023
What is a Vintage Engagement Ring?
A vintage engagement ring is typically one that’s more than 50 years old. Antique is often used interchangeably with vintage to describe older rings, but typically refers to a ring older than 100 years. Modern rings can also be crafted to look like different styles of vintage and antique rings. What is Considered a Vintage […]
January 31, 2023
How Long Do Custom Engagement Rings Take?
A custom engagement ring is one that’s created from scratch and every detail is uniquely designed by you with support from your jeweler. Due to the process of designing, reviewing and ultimately creating this special piece, a custom ring can take a few weeks before it makes its way into your hands. What is a […]
January 19, 2023
Where To Take Engagement Pictures in Denver
Engagement photos provide an opportunity for you and your partner to connect with each other, have fun and celebrate this very special time in your lives. You can use the images for save the date cards or wedding invitations, display them at your rehearsal or wedding and use them to decorate your home. Denver offers […]
January 12, 2023
How to Wear a Pear Shaped Engagement Ring
The most common way to wear a pear shaped engagement ring is to have the top of the stone pointing upwards towards your fingertips and the round bottom pointing towards your hand creating a teardrop shape. Some choose to wear their ring with the pointed end down, and others may opt to set their stone […]
January 4, 2023