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If you’re like many admirers, you know that antique diamond rings are truly unique jewels. Those without treatment are preferred for use in an engagement ring because they are not enhanced and allow the natural beauty of the stone to shine through. But, if you choose to buy one of these untreated gems, follow the advice of experts and get its condition documented on your sales receipt.

Antique diamonds date back to European historical periods including Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Victorian and Georgian. Back in those days, the class structure of Europe entitled the wearing of these gems only to royalty. In the 17th century, a wealthy merchant class occasionally wore a diamond - but their rarity allowed them the acclaimed name of “the royal gem”.

The Georgian Period, named for the procession of kings named George, was a period known for handmade jewelry with new cuts gaining in popularity and demand. Since diamonds were most exclusively used at the beginning of the period, larger stones were replaced with a combination of smaller diamonds portraying a cascade manifestation.

An engagement ring is typically regarded as a symbol of two lives being joined into one and more times than not, the stone of choice is a diamond. As a promise of eternal love, their value is limitless. Of course economically speaking, certain stones will cost more than others depending on a number of factors used to measure their value.

Common quality characteristics are known as the four Cs and include carat, cut, color and clarity. While love is typically the reason we buy engagement rings, it’s wise to pay attention to the market value of your purchase as well. Knowing the basics of how they are evaluated will help you choose the best diamond for your budget.

When it comes to choosing the right diamond, remember that your choice will be just as individual as the person receiving it. There’s no diamond style that is a perfect one-size-fits-all, so use your knowledge of the individual and take the time to understand what have the most meaning to them.

Aside from the ring’s appearance in a jewelry case or picture, consideration should be given to whether it will flatter the hand that will be wearing it. Often the cut or shape can make a big difference in this area. Another consideration is the setting that is used. Attention should be given to whether the setting is properly mounted and if the ring appears to be worth the asking price.

The cut can enhance a diamond’s sparkle and provide a window into its owner’s personality. Generally, someone wearing a round cut displays security and a family centered personality. On the other hand, an individual sporting a marquise cut tends to have a career-centered personality.

After shopping for antique diamond rings and finding the perfect fit, don’t forget to properly care for your jewelry. Since diamonds are natural grease attractors, natural skin oil can become embedded in your ring quite easily. Get a gentle jewelry cleaner and make it a habit to clean your gem periodically so it can continue to look as beautiful and shiny as the day you got it!

Filed under: Fashion