Anatomy of a Diamond

Moving on to the second of the big C's: Clarity. No argument here, we all want a crystal clear, sparkling diamond. They don't call it 'ice' for nothing. Do they still call it that? Regardless, clarity is probably the most well known and most obvious of the four C's.  Here's a little bit more about it.

Diamonds are found in nature, so its no wonder they may have natural blemishes and inclusions. Some of those, however, aren't even visible to the naked eye. Blemishes are surface flaws such as scratches, while inclusions are entities such as air bubbles and other minerals trapped within the diamond. Diamonds, like people, are unique. And therefore have individual qualities. Make sure you ask your jeweler to point out any flaws in your diamond before purchasing. They may not be noticeable at all.

And in case you were wondering, The Krupp Diamond (pictured above) also known as the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, is 33.19 carat Asscher cut diamond, gifted to her by then-husband, Richard Burton, in 1968. It sold at auction last year for $8,818,500 and is said to be internally flawless.

Snapshots at Astrein's

The Fabulous Finds Sale is still going on! Get a beautiful piece right now at 1/2 off.

This gorgeous art deco inspired 14k rose and white gold necklace is made up of 139 diamonds at 1.85 carats. It retails for $4035 and is on sale for $2018. We think you'd find an excuse to wear it daily.

 

 The same goes for this black and white diamond and 14k white gold pendant. 118 black and white diamonds and 1.30 carats. Retail $1885 on sale for $942

If dainty jewelry is more your thing (or you can't realistically go to work dripping in diamonds) scoop up the sweet and petite 14kt yellow gold flower earrings with a tiny diamond bud center! Retail price $379, Astrein's 1/2 off price $189!

*All sale prices shown before sales tax

Anatomy of a Diamond

Planning to invest? Get more bang for your buck by reading up on the 4C's of diamonds.

Ever wonder what makes a good diamond? We've all heard about carats, but there is a lot more to a diamond's value than its size. The 4C's of diamonds: Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color, all make up the identity, and the total value of each stone. Have you ever seen a large diamond that appears a foggy, grey, or even spotted up close? It could be that gem is in serious need of a good cleaning, or because some people will give a little in the color or clarity area in order to afford a larger diamond - while others, prefer a smaller size, but a flawless stone.

To start off, here's a closer look at the first big C: Cut.

Here is another side-by-side comparison of an ideal cut diamond vs. one cut too deep or too shallow.

Read a little about diamond quality and familiarize yourself with the terms. You don't need to be an expert; a good jeweler will point out diamond differences and flaws to you in person. But a little light reading beforehand will get you way ahead of the game.

Astrein's Fabulous Finds!

The holidays may still be a few months off but you won't need an excuse to shop this sale!

It's Astrein's Fabulous Finds sale: We have a HUGE selection of gorgeous pieces at 50% off! Check out just a few of the pieces here. We have an incredible selection of fine jewelry: beautiful gold and diamond pieces, beautiful bracelets, and delicate drop earrings.

Treat yourself now, and get gorgeous - without the guilt!