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Diamond

From the Lab: Diamond Finish – Polish and Symmetry

By Wade Abel, CG, Director of Gemological Services, AGS Laboratories Diamond cut is a direct reflection of the craftsmanship of the artisan who put the diamond on the wheel. The design of the cut, the execution of that design by the cutter, and the high polish possible with a diamond are all factors that contribute to the finish of the diamond. When diamond graders assess diamonds for polish and symmetry, the visibility, as well as the number of faults, are taken into consideration. As with diamond clarity, polish and symmetry are assessed and assigned grades at 10x magnification under a

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How Does AGS Laboratories Determine Diamond Treatments?

By Wade Abel, CG, Director of Gemological Services, AGS Laboratories One of the factors of a diamond grade that greatly impacts the diamond’s value is the diamond’s color. For colorless diamonds in the D-Z range, the possibility of obtaining a higher color using treatment can be potentially attractive. Most treatments for color are permanent and, therefore, can be assessed at AGS Laboratories. The important job of a third-party diamond grading lab is the appropriate disclosures that are required when treatment is detected. Specific protocols at AGS Laboratories provide our Advanced Detection team with the needed clues and evidence to make

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How to Shop for Diamond Engagement Rings

Buying a diamond engagement ring is a momentous occasion. If you’re ready to purchase a ring, but don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place. With such an important expenditure as a diamond engagement ring, you want to feel confident in your decision. You want to feel like you’ve purchased the perfect ring! Doing your research, shopping around, and careful consideration go a long way toward making that happen. It also helps to have informed advice from professionals in the industry. The American Gem Society is the country’s preeminent jewelry trade organization dedicated to consumer protection. We’re dedicated

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April Birthstone: Diamond

By Anna Samsonova, CGA, Ben Bridge Jewelers “Diamonds ARE a girl’s best friend,” especially if you were born in April! Since the beginning of time, diamonds have been associated with strength, love and purity. They are symbols of eternal love and great status. Many of us know of famous diamonds and their stories, from the infamous Hope Diamond to the Koh-i-Noor Diamond (both diamonds reputedly hold a curse to those who own or wear them).  Most people think of diamonds as clear gemstones, and they can indeed be quite clear, but diamonds can also be quite colorful. Diamond colors range

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Tips from Jewelers Mutual: Popular Engagement Rings to Make Your Holiday Proposal Perfect

Are you planning to make one of your holiday gifts an engagement ring? With all the excitement and holiday hubbub, where do you begin? Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company has compiled a wonderful list of what to look for, based on latest trends, hottest colors and alternative alloys. But keep in mind, it’s most important to be conscious of what your beloved most desires. Learn more by reading their blog, Popular Engagement Rings to Make Your Holiday Proposal Perfect.

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A Diamond Hunt in Arkansas Awaits You | Tips from Jewelers Mutual

Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company has this potentially valuable tip: Head to Murfreesboro, AR to search for and keep your own diamonds! Hi ho, hi ho, it’s off to Crater of Diamonds State Park we go! Before you start packing your bags and pick ax, read about the amazing discoveries these lucky visitors have made at the park. Will you have your own story to tell? Learn more by reading their blog, A Diamond Hunt Awaits You in Arkansas.

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Tips from Jewelers Mutual: End-of-Summer Jewelry To-Do List

Sunscreen, chlorine, and travel are the quintessential elements of summer that put fine jewelry at risk. But now that the sun is setting on summer, it’s time to give your precious gems and metals some extra attention. Learn more in this blog by Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, 5 End-of-Summer Jewelry Care Tips to Keep Your Sparklers Shining.

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Tips from Jewelers Mutual: When Not to Wear Your Wedding Ring This Summer

We love summer! The season tempts us to let those gorgeous gemstones sparkle in the sunshine, and it’s especially an attractive way to dress up bare skin. But don’t forget that the harsh chemicals in much-needed sunscreen, and the chlorine in the refreshing pool, are harmful to fine jewelry. While you’re having fun in the sun, you run the risk of ruining your jewelry—or even worse, losing it! Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company offers the following tips on how to keep your jewelry safe during this active season. Learn more by reading their blog, When Not to Wear Your Wedding Ring

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The Benefits of Jewelry Appraisals

By Phillip Bosen, CGA and Director of Business Development at Von Bargen’s JewelryA critical step in protecting and preserving the value of your jewelry is getting an updated appraisal on a regular basis. In fact, if the most recent appraisal of your jewelry took place five or more years ago, it’s time to get a new appraisal.You may be asking what a jewelry appraisal does for you. The obvious answer is that an appraisal sets a value for your jewelry. And with today’s roller-coaster values for gold, platinum, silver and gemstones, knowing what your jewelry is worth can save you heartache

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From Old to New Again: Jeweler Gives Heirloom Jewelry an Updated Look

By Donna Jolly, RJ Laura Stanley is like many American Gem Society jewelers: her family has a rich history in the industry. In her case, she is a third generation jeweler. It started with her grandfather, Charles B. Stanley, a watchmaker in downtown North Little Rock, Arkansas. In 1936, he and his wife, Sally, opened a small jewelry store that throughout the years grew, and was passed down to their son, Loyd. Today, his daughter, Laura is a vital force in Stanley Jewelers Gemologist, a family business specializing in fine jewelry and fine service. With such a rich history, it

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