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
How Many Carats Should an Engagement Ring Be?
In the United States, the national average for an engagement ring is around one carat, however there is no “correct” size or amount to spend on an engagement ring. Ultimately, the perfect engagement ring is the one that you like wearing and meets your budget and lifestyle. What is the Ideal Carat Size for an […]
December 29, 2022
What is a Halo Ring Setting?
A halo engagement ring design features a center stone surrounded on all sides by smaller diamonds or gemstones. Second in popularity to a solitaire engagement ring style, halos accentuate the beauty of the center stone and can make it appear larger. There are a few different types of halos and it lends itself well to […]
December 22, 2022
What is a Radiant Cut Diamond?
A radiant cut diamond combines an emerald or Asscher step-cut with a round brilliant to produce one of the most dazzling square or rectangular shapes available. Even though it’s a relatively new shape, the radiant is an excellent choice for an engagement ring that has incredible brilliance and fire that’s more affordable than other brilliant […]
December 15, 2022
Do Engagement Rings Have to be Diamond?
While a diamond engagement ring is the most traditional and popular choice, more and more couples are looking for unique, nontraditional and even colorful engagement ring options that fit their lifestyle and taste. Both engagement and wedding rings carry significant meaning, so it’s best to choose something that you’ll want to wear for a lifetime. […]
December 7, 2022
What is an Illusion Setting in a Ring?
An illusion setting enhances the appearance and perceived size of the diamonds or gemstones in it by surrounding the girdle of the gem with a ring of angled metal. Popular particularly during the Art Deco period, this vintage setting style offers an unusual, rather artistic and certainly unique engagement ring design. What is an Illusion […]
November 29, 2022
What is a Round Cut Diamond?
Round diamonds are the most popular diamond shape for engagement rings. They are perfectly symmetrical and timelessly beautiful, with 58 sparkling facets, making them a brilliant cut. Modern round cut diamonds are based on generations of research intent on creating a shape designed for ultimate brilliance. What is a Round Cut Diamond? In 1919 Belgian […]
November 25, 2022
What is a Bench Jeweler?
The term jeweler is quite broad and includes those that sell jewelry, work with metal and gems, string beads and even use found objects to create items for personal adornment or jewelry. The term bench jeweler sometimes applies to someone that has had formal training and certification to help differentiate these trained individuals from other […]
November 18, 2022
What is a Gypsy Ring Setting?
A gyspy setting is also referred to as a flush mount, burnished or hammer setting, and features stones that are set into rather than on top of a ring or piece of jewelry. This setting’s minimalist style and sturdy construction make it a great choice for both men’s and women’s engagement and wedding rings. What […]
November 11, 2022
What is a Heart Cut Diamond?
As a universal and timeless symbol of romance and love, the meaning behind a heart shaped diamond is crystal clear, making it a special alternative to more common diamond cuts. This shape can be used for an engagement ring, as well as for other special pieces of jewelry including necklaces and earrings. What is a […]
November 4, 2022
How to Care for Your Engagement Ring
Taking good care of your engagement ring will ensure that it continues to sparkle and bring you joy for years to come. From how to carry and store your ring, to cleaning and maintaining it, and knowing when to take it off, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to keep your ring protected, […]
October 28, 2022
What is a Pavé Setting?
A pavé setting features tiny diamonds or gemstones that are embedded into the shank or band of a ring and held in place by tiny prongs or beads that create the appearance of a line of continuous sparkle. Pavé comes in a few different styles and can easily be combined with other settings to maximize […]
October 20, 2022
What is an Oval Cut Diamond?
As the name suggests, an oval shaped diamond is a symmetrical, elongated rounded shape with high brilliance and sparkle. This fancy shape is a popular and lovely choice for an engagement ring and lends itself well to all sorts of settings including a simple solitaire, halo or three stone. Let’s learn more about this elegant […]
October 13, 2022