Over the years in the gemstone and jewellery business I have come across many myths and misconceptions which I would like to address today and in my future blog posts.
With so much information at our fingertips, it is difficult to know what is true and what is false when searching the web. Interestingly, some of these myths, I heard from sales professionals at high-end jewellery stores, while I was doing some research as a "secret shopper".
As a GIA certified gemologist and an accredited jewellery professional, I am happy to share my knowledge on my mission to spread the truth.
Let's dive right in!
Diamonds Are Indestructible - FALSE
Although diamonds are "the hardest substance known to man", they CAN be damaged, especially by other diamonds if they are not stored properly.
There is a difference between calling something "hard" and "strong." Although diamonds rank at 10/10 on Mohs hardness scale, all that means is that it will only be scratched by another diamond but it does not mean that diamonds cannot be broken.
For example, if a diamond has a large inclusion like a fracture, it can actually crack even further if you accidentally hit your diamond ring on a table or a door.
This is why I advise not to wear your jewellery to the gym, or the beach, even if it is diamond jewellery.
Gold is mined in yellow, white and rose colours - FALSE
The gold that comes out of the ground is always yellow. To create other colours, different materials are added to that mined gold, to create alloys.
For example, adding copper and silver creates rose gold.
Adding nickel and palladium creates white gold, which then also has to get rhodium plated to get that bright white colour. This is why your white gold ring might start looking less white over time, not because it is dirty, but because the rhodium plating wears off. Easy enough remedy - you can get your white gold jewellery re-plated.
The Bigger The Stone, The More Expensive It Is - FALSE
The value and the price of gemstones depends on a combination of factors like quality and availability, not just size.
Consequently, a 2 carat diamond can be cheaper than a higher quality 1 carat diamond. It is also possible that a fine, 1 carat ruby or emerald could cost the same as a 2 carat diamond.
Engagement rings must have a diamond - FALSE
Although traditionally diamonds have been the top choice for engagement rings and bridal jewellery, gemstones of rich, vibrant colours are now at the top of the wish list for many brides-to-be. Perhaps also for you?
Sapphires come in all colours of the rainbow and are a unique choice if you are looking for something truly one-of-a-kind. Although blue sapphires are still the most popular choice, thanks to Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, colours that are currently "on trend” include pastel and hot pinks, blue-green and purple shades. Other gorgeous options include yellow, orange and green sapphires as well as soft peaches and the stunning Padparadscha sapphire variety, worn by Princess Eugenie.
Sapphires in all colours as well as rubies are a part of the “corundum” family and score a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness (the only harder material being a diamond at a 10). This makes sapphires and rubies an excellent choice for everyday wear that will withstand the test of time and live on to become heirlooms.
These wonderful rings featured below are available for purchase from Tsarina Gems ready-to-wear selection. All four come with a third party appraisal for your piece of mind.
See something that you like? Do get in touch with me via Tsarina Gems Homepage
To find out more about sapphire engagement rings, check out my previous post titled Pop the question with a Pop of Colour
If you are on the hunt for custom jewellery, either for yourself or as a gift, I would love to hear from you!
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