Monthly Archives: May 2012

Unique Celebrity Engagement Rings

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Angelina Jolie’s emerald-cut sparkler is among the most unique celebrity engagement rings of late.  Since most celebrities favor the biggest and priciest rock, Jolie’s ring is refreshing in its unique elegance. With the Jolie-Pitt sparkler as our guide, let’s take a look at a few of the most original celebrity engagement rings on record:

Jacki O's original ring

When John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier in the early 1950s, he gave her a stunning engagement ring with a 2.88-carat white diamond mounted beside a 2.84-carat emerald stone. The diamond and emerald stones were set atop a yellow gold band lined with tapered baguettes.

Jackie O's stunning white diamond and emerald engagement ring was reset in 1962, with .66 total carats of round diamonds and 1.46 carats of marquise diamonds added to the bauble.

In 1962, the ring was reset and .66 total carats of round diamonds and 1.46 carats of marquise diamonds were added to the piece.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne popped the big question to British actress Elizabeth Hurley with one of the more stylish rings in recent memory. Hurley’s engagement ring features a 9-carat sapphire center stone surrounded by trillion-cut diamonds on each side. The ring reportedly cost $100,000, and serves as the perfect complement to Hurley’s stylish elegance.

Katherine Heigl’s engagement ring puts an asymmetrical spin on halo diamonds. The “Knocked Up” star’s ring features a 3-carat, pear-shaped diamond stone surrounded by a halo of brilliant-cut diamonds. The rose gold band is studded with dozens of small diamonds which shimmer beautifully.

Carmen Elektra's 2-carat, spicy black, solitaire ring perfectly suits the celeb.

Back in 2008, actress and former playboy centerfold Carmen Electra received a black diamond engagement ring from Korn’s Rob Patterson. The 2-carat, spicy black, solitaire ring has an understated, edgy charm that perfectly fits Electra’s persona.

 

 

 

 

Actress and part-time real estate agent Brooke Mueller had her hands full during her three-year marriage to Hollywood bad boy Charlie Sheen.  In 2008, Sheen pledged his undying devotion with an 11-carat diamond engagement ring. The stunning piece features a brilliant-cut, yellow diamond center stone encircled by a halo of micro pave white diamonds. The yellow and white diamonds are set atop a diamond encrusted, platinum band.

Zographgus Collection Auction

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rare diamond earrings were just some of the precious jewels auctioned from the Zographgus collection.

On March 25 and 26, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers in Chicago offered up an impressive selection of antique jewelry from the Zographgus collection. The jewelry pieces included one-of-a-kind necklaces and rings studded with pearls, diamonds and rubies. The two-day auction drew big spending jewelry lovers from across the globe, and brought in $3.4 million.

The Zographgus collection was stocked with several impressive diamond rings. A 6.20-carat, antique cabochon-cut ruby ring sold for $146,400. The stunning piece featured yellow gold, a center stone derived from unheated Burmese rubies and 16 mm old mine cut diamonds. Other top pieces included a carved chalcedony and diamond ring which sold for $36,000, and an 8.50-carat natural heated sapphire ring that fetched $61,000. The 4.70-carat, lozenge-cut Shlumberger ring was an auction highlight. The standout piece sold for $134,200.

In addition to spectacular rings, the auction featured several of the world’s most precious gem stones. Two antique, cushion-cut diamonds, with a combined 25.75-carat weight, were auctioned for $280,000. A rare 7.20-carat heart-shaped diamond earned a staggering $448,000. The heart-shaped diamond was graded as a D color and has VVS1 clarity. A pair of antique briolette-cut Victorian diamond pendants was also in high demand, selling for $67,100. The pendants were originally earring components and they feature two briolette shape rose-cut diamonds.

Natural pearls were also a prominent part of the Zographgus Collection. An elegant pearl, platinum and diamond tassel necklace earned $126,840. A stunning pair of diamond and pearl drop earrings was also a top earner. The earrings sold for $43,920.

 

 

Tips For Buying Diamonds: External Diamond Blemishes

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diamonds

Diamonds often have external flaws that can be treated to preserve the life of your diamond.

When purchasing a diamond, it is important to know the various ways it can blemish. External diamond blemishes are typically less serious than their internal counterparts. However, some external blemishes can shorten the lifespan of your diamond if they are left untreated.

Scratch

Scratches are surface lines that develop on the diamond as a result of daily wear. They can also be caused by the diamond coming into contact with other stones on your hand or in a jewelry box. Scratches do not impact the diamonds structure; therefore, scratches do not impact the diamond’s long-term durability. Diamond scratches can be polished away by your jeweler, but the diamond will have to be removed from its setting.

Nicks

Nicks are characterized by the appearance of surface chips that develop along the diamond. In these areas, the parts of the diamond have been chipped away. Nicks are caused by abrasions that develop after long-term wear. They typically occur on the diamond’s girdle and in areas such as the facet junctions. Unlike scratches, nicks can weaken the diamond over time. Severe nicks may ultimately cause it to break. Small nicks can be treated through polishing and the creation of additional facets along the diamond.

Naturals

Unpolished areas on the diamond’s surface are called naturals. When the diamond is being cut, unpolished areas are left near the girdle to help the manufacturer create a bigger carat size. Since naturals have always been present on your diamond, it poses no threat to its structure.

Pit

Small or tiny white dots that appear on a diamond are called pits. These white dots – or cavities, are holes in the diamond’s facet. If pits are visible, they will negatively affect your diamond’s grade. Shallow pits can often be polished away.

Abrasions

Clusters of fuzzy or white areas on or near a diamond’s facet junction are called abrasions. They cause diamonds to rub against one another if the stones are handled carelessly.  Abrasions are minor and can be polished away.

Kim Zolciak Engagement Ring

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“Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Kim Zolciak made a splash on Twitter when she tweeted a picture of the 10-carat engagement ring given to her by Atlanta Falcon star Kroy Biermann.

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Kim Zolciak is known for her potty mouth, lavish taste, blonde wigs and disdain for most social norms. “The Ring Don’t Mean a Thing” singer made headlines in 2011 when she tweeted a picture of the 10-carat engagement ring given to her by Atlanta Falcon star Kroy Biermann. The NFL star showed his enduring love for Zolciak with a massive, diamond rock that set Twitter afire.

The 10-carat stunner accomplished the rare feat of standing out in a year dominated by bling. Zolicak’s ring features a cushion-cut center diamond encircled by a halo of white diamonds. The oversized stone rests atop a shimmering platinum band that is encrusted with dozens of small diamonds.

The striking ring suits Zolciak’s outlandish persona and complements her fondness for gaudy pieces. And, it is more restrained than the 20.5-carat sparkler that Kim Kardashian received ahead of her 72-day marriage to NBA star Kris Humprhies.

Zolciak’s engagement ring made its national television debut during a March episode of the wildly popular “Real Housewives of Atlanta” series. It was also the subject of debate during a heated exchange with fellow Atlanta housewife Marlo Hampton, on the series’ no-holds-barred, three-part reunion special.

Kim Zolciak is currently starring in the reality TV spin-off “Don’t Be Tardy for the Wedding” on the Bravo network. The show chronicles the planning for her larger-than-life wedding, and is scheduled to end with a fairytale ceremony so garish and over-t

Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite Auction

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This dazzling 8.65-carat, step-cut sapphire ring brought in $852,872 at the Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite Auction.

On April 3, Sotheby’s Hong Kong held their Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite Auction. The auction included several lots of rare diamonds, rubies and other fine jewels from several of the world’s top private jewelry collections. The single-day auction took in $64 million, making it the second-highest grossing jewelry auction in Hong Kong to date. The auction attracted well-heeled bidders from across the globe who clamored to take home the graceful pieces up for grabs.

The auction’s top earner was a stunning 8.01-carat, emerald-cut fancy vivid blue diamond ring which sold for $12.78 million. The ring is mounted on a stunning platinum band, and the center stone is flanked by a single, shield-shaped diamond. The shield-shaped diamonds have a combined weight of 1.0 carat. The $12.78 million price tag breaks down to roughly $1,588,079 per carat. This is the second highest price per carat for a blue diamond at auction. The highest per carat sale price for a blue diamond ring was set during an October 2011 auction at Sotheby’s Hong Kong. During that auction, a 6.01-carat fancy vivid blue diamond ring was purchased for a whopping $10.1 million, or $1,686,505 per carat.

Other top performers at the Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite Auction include an 18.11-carat brilliant-cut loose diamond that sold for $39. 8million, while a gorgeous, 8.65-carat, step-cut sapphire ring brought in $852,872. A 4.11-carat, heart-shaped diamond mounted ring was one of the more understated pieces up for bid. The elegant ring sold for $41,870, nearly double its pre-auction estimate.

Bridesmaid Jewelry Ideas

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Pearls are a popular and elegant choice for bridesmaids jewelry.

Bridesmaids play an important supporting role in a wedding. In addition to being the bride’s go-to women for all things wedding related, bridesmaids are vital to the overall look of a ceremony.

Color Scheme

When searching for bridesmaid jewelry, be sure to consider the wedding’s color scheme. Pay attention to how well the jewelry matches the colors of the bridesmaid dresses. Choose bracelets, earrings, and necklaces that best complement their gowns, or highlight flowers in their bouquets. If your bridesmaids are wearing turquoise, pink, purple, or white dresses, natural pearls provide an elegant touch. Jewelry adorned with black stones looks best with strong colors such as red gowns and fit effortlessly with black bridesmaid dresses.

‘Tis the Season

Also, consider the time of year the wedding is taking place, since out-of-season jewelry can detract from the ceremony’s aesthetic appeal.  Choose jewelry that highlights the weather outdoors. For example, if the wedding ceremony takes place in spring, floral-inspired jewelry is an ideal choice. Spring is a time for rejuvenation; therefore, blooming flowers or leaves will perfectly reflect the time of year, and add a vibrant touch to the bridesmaids’ gowns.

Affordability

Since they are not the stars of the ceremony, avoid overspending on bridesmaid jewelry.  Use jewelry that features alternative gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, or onyx to save money. However, if cost is not a deciding factor, diamond jewelry should be your first choice. In addition to their natural beauty, white diamond stones are highly versatile and complement a variety of bridesmaids’ gowns.

Most importantly, remember to select pieces that will flatter each bridesmaid to make sure everyone looks comfortable, elegant and suitable for the occasion.

 

 

Bonham’s Fine Jewelry Auction Recap

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A three-stone white gold ring with brilliant round-cut diamonds sold at the Bonhams New York auction.

Bonhams New York held a “Fine Jewelry” auction at their Madison Avenue location on April 19. Auction lots consisted of contemporary and antique fine jewelry pieces, as well as high-quality gem stones. The spirited proceedings were simulcast to Los Angeles and San Francisco, and attracted a bevy of international bidders who packed the auction house or participated via the Internet and phone.

The auction’s top earner was a stunning 14.82-carat, JVVS1 marquise-cut, diamond solitaire ring. The piece sold for $482,500, nearly doubling its $250,000 pre-auction estimate. Another high earner was a 20.59-carat cut-cornered rectangular diamond solitaire ring, which sold for $254,000. A smaller 4.42-carat cut-cornered, rectangular-cut diamond solitaire stone went for an impressive $116,500.

Antique jewelry was also in high demand, thanks to two distinct pieces that date back to 1910. A belle époque yellow topaz and diamond necklace sold for $15,625, while an 8.46-carat marquise-cut diamond solitaire ring fetched $88,900.

Other hot ticket items include a striking, turtle-shaped, purple sapphire and amethyst diamond brooch. The distinctive piece was bought for $68,500, earning six times its pre-sale estimate. Fine gemstones were represented by an exquisite, 7.10-carat, European-cut solitaire diamond. The high-grade diamond sold for $60,000.

Bonhams New York reports that the auction was a rousing success. Early estimates list a take of $5 million for the single-day event. The impressive tally suggests high-demand in the market for fine jewelry.

 

 

Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

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Brad Pitt helped designs Angelina Jolie's beautiful custom, emerald-cut engagement ring.

With Angelina Jolie’s elegant emerald-cut engagement ring recently making headlines, many women will be begging their beaus for emerald-cut engagement rings. Here is a look at some of the most famous emerald-cut rings for inspiration, as well as tips for finding your own perfect emerald-cut diamond ring:

  • Angelina Jolie’s understated sparkler is estimated to be valued at $250,000 and carries its own unique look with the custom design, befitting of the elegant actress.
  • Kim Kardashian’s famed engagement included plenty of attention for her engagement ring, a dazzling 20-plus carat, emerald-cut sparkler from NBA player Kris Humphries. Although the relationship did not last, the larger than life ring lives on in celebrity history.
  • Pop star Jessica Simpson donned a dazzling emerald-cut diamond engagement ring from former flame Nick Lahey with a 4-carat center stone flanked by two diamonds. Although the relationship did not last, the ring remains a beauty.
  • Starlet Reese Witherspoon wore a 5-carat emerald-cut vintage bauble with an Art Deco-inspired design that still stands out for its stylish beauty, despite that fact that her relationship ended.
  • Socialite Paris Hilton paraded around in a 24-carat emerald-cut diamond ring from Greek shipping heir Paris Lastis. The gaudy bauble was perfect for the outlandish party girl, whose engagement did not last.
  • Donald Trump proposed to his current wife, Melanie Knauss, with a 12-carat emerald-cut ring reported to cost more than $1 million.

 

Tips for Buying an Emerald-Cut Engagement Ring

 

  • Emerald-cut engagement rings are best for accentuating long, slender fingers and can make chubby fingers look bigger. For women who do not have slender hands but still want the emerald cut, go for emerald-cut rings with side diamonds or baguettes to help make the ring appear wider and less oblong. The side stones will help draw attention from the finger.
  • The diamond color and clarity is especially important when choosing an emerald-cut engagement ring because the larger, rectangular center stone will show flaws more easily than a round-cut ring such as a solitaire. Go for a color that is G or higher and a clarity rating in the VS range.
  • Emerald-cut diamonds are generally less expensive than some of the popular cuts, so you can get more carats for your buck with emerald cuts, as well as an elegant looking diamond that, with the right care, will last a lifetime.

Top Five Engagement Ring Types

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Finding the right engagement ring can be a challenge if you don’t know where to start. The numerous designs, settings and precious metals at your disposal can make settling on the perfect ring a daunting task. Whether you are on a tight budget, or looking to break the bank, there are five popular types of engagement rings that will show your significant other how much you love her.

Solitaire

Solitaire diamond engagement rings are the most popular rings on the market. A single diamond is graceful and elegant, featuring a simple design that will never go out of style. Solitaire rings are offered in several cuts of diamond; but, round brilliant is the most popular since it looks beautiful with small diamonds as well as eye-catching, oversized stones.

Split Shank

The split shank design gives an engagement ring a distinct, antique look. This design is ideal when you want to forego a wedding band altogether. Split shank rings are characterized by the widening at the center of the ring which creates a focal point. The center stone can range from a simple solitaire diamond or a swirl of micro-pave diamonds that rise about the band. Split shank rinks are an ideal choice when you are looking for a throwback-style ring that works well as a standalone piece.

Fancy Diamonds

A fancy diamond is a wonderful choice that will spruce up any engagement ring design. Fancy cuts include princess, asscher, cushion, heart and pear-shaped diamonds. These diamonds flatter solitaire ring designs as well as multi-diamond rings. Fancy diamonds such as the princess and cushion-cut are stunning when encircled by halos. Additionally, fancy diamonds look beautiful whether they’re mounted atop polished metal or diamond-encrusted bands.

Three-Stone

Three-stone rings are among the most symbolic engagement rings on the market. The multiple stones represent love’s past, present, and future; but, that symbolic layer of bling comes with a more expensive price tag. Three-stone rings typically feature a large center stone flanked by two small diamonds on either side. You also have the option of using three diamonds of the same size if you want to make a bigger statement.

Color Splash

Colored diamonds and gem stones are another way to spruce up a typical engagement ring design. Fancy yellow or pink diamonds give designs a touch of refined elegance, while black diamonds convey a stylish uniqueness that complements antique and contemporary rings. Colored gemstones such as emeralds and rubies are also an option since they are cheaper than diamonds. Colored gems can make