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Birthstones have long been associated with each month of the year, making them a popular choice for jewellery and gifts. These precious gems hold a special significance, believed to bring good luck and protection to those who wear them. From January’s deep red garnet to December’s vibrant turquoise, each month’s birthstone has a unique story and meaning behind it. Join us as we explore the fascinating history and symbolism of birthstones in this blog post.

Understanding Birthstones: Origin and Significance

Birthstones have a rich history that dates back centuries, and understanding their origin and significance adds depth and meaning to these precious gems. Their concept can be traced back to biblical times, with references in the Book of Exodus. The high priest’s breastplate was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This early association between gemstones and months of the year laid the foundation for the birthstone tradition we know today.

Over time, different cultures developed their own interpretations of birthstones, further enhancing their significance. Ancient civilisations believed that they possessed mystical powers and were able to bestow good luck and protection upon the wearer. These beliefs have been passed down through generations, and birthstones continue to be cherished as symbols of personal connection and spirituality.

In addition to their symbolic meanings, birthstones are also treasured for their unique beauty. Each gemstone has its own distinct colour, cut, and sparkle, making them a stunning choice for jewellery. Whether it’s the deep red of a garnet or the vibrant turquoise of December’s birthstone, each month’s gem carries its own allure.

Journey Through the Year: A Detailed Look at Each Month’s Birthstone

As we journey through the year, we come across a beautiful array of birthstones, each with its own captivating story and meaning.

In January, the deep red garnet takes centre stage. Known for its rich colour and stunning brilliance, this gem is said to symbolise love, friendship, and trust. It is believed to bring good luck and protection to those born in the first month of the year.

As we move into February, the amethyst shines with its enchanting purple hues. This gem is associated with clarity of mind, wisdom, and inner strength. It is believed to have healing properties and is often worn to promote calmness and balance.

March brings us the mesmerising aquamarine, with its serene blue colour reminiscent of the ocean. Representing youth, hope, and courage, it is said to bring inner peace and is often worn as a talisman for safe travels.

The enchanting diamond takes the spotlight in April, known for its unparalleled beauty and everlasting sparkle. The diamond symbolises purity, strength, and everlasting love. It is a popular choice for engagement rings, as it represents eternal commitment.

May brings us the vibrant emerald, known for its deep green colour and captivating allure. This gem symbolises rebirth, fertility, and love. It is said to promote balance and harmony in relationships.

June’s birthstone is the timeless pearl, renowned for its elegant and classic beauty. Representing purity, innocence, and wisdom, the pearl is often associated with femininity and is believed to enhance the wearer’s intuition.

As we enter July, the fiery ruby captures our attention with its intense red hue. This gem symbolises passion, courage, and love. It is believed to bring vitality and energy to the wearer.

In August, the peridot shines with its vibrant green colour. Peridot represents strength, confidence, and protection. It is believed to ward off negative energy and promote harmony in relationships.

The exquisite sapphire takes the stage in September, with its deep blue colour symbolising wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It is said to bring clarity of thought and promote spiritual enlightenment.

October brings us the mesmerising opal, with its unique play of colours. This gem represents creativity, inspiration, and passion. It is believed to enhance intuition and imagination.

November showcases the topaz and citrine as its birthstones. Topaz represents love and affection, while citrine symbolises abundance, happiness, and prosperity.

Finally, December presents the vibrant turquoise as its birthstone. Turquoise is associated with protection, positivity, and good fortune. It is believed to bring peace and balance to the wearer.

Each birthstone holds its own significance and beauty, making them a wonderful choice for personalised jewellery. Explore the birthstone of your birth month or choose one that resonates with you. The possibilities are endless, and our skilled designers are here to help you create a truly meaningful and unique piece.

Symbolism and Beliefs Surrounding Birthstones

Birthstones have always held a special place in our hearts, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the symbolism and beliefs associated with them. Throughout history, birthstones have been believed to possess mystical properties and hold significant meaning for those who wear them.

Each birthstone is said to carry unique energies and attributes that align with the characteristics and needs of individuals born in that particular month. For example, garnets are believed to bring good luck and protection to those born in January, whilst emeralds are said to promote love and balance for those born in May.

In addition to their individual symbolism, birthstones are also believed to have healing properties. For centuries, gemstones have been used as a form of therapy and protection, with each stone offering its own distinct benefits. Whether it’s the calming properties of amethyst or the energy-enhancing qualities of rubies, birthstones can be worn as talismans to promote well-being and positive energy.

Furthermore, birthstones are a meaningful way to honour and celebrate personal connections. They can be passed down through generations, creating a sense of family heritage and connection. Many people also choose to incorporate these symbols into their jewellery as a way to commemorate special milestones and moments in life.

Personalising Jewellery with Birthstones: Ideas and Inspiration

At The Goldmarket, we understand that personalisation is key when it comes to jewellery. That’s why we offer a range of options for personalising your birthstone jewellery, allowing you to create a truly unique and meaningful piece.
One popular option is to incorporate birthstones into a custom-designed piece of jewellery. Our skilled designers can work with you to create a design that reflects your personal style and preferences, whilst showcasing the beauty of your birthstone.

Whether you prefer a simple and elegant pendant or a statement ring, we can bring your vision to life.
Another idea is to combine birthstones with other meaningful symbols or initials to create a personalised charm bracelet or necklace. This allows you to create a piece that not only represents your birth month but also celebrates other special people or moments in your life.

How to Care for Your Birthstone Jewellery

Taking proper care of your birthstone jewellery is essential to ensure its longevity and keep it looking its best. Here are some tips on how to care for your precious gemstone pieces:

1. Cleaning: Regularly clean your birthstone jewellery to remove dirt and oil buildup. Use a mild soap and warm water solution, and gently scrub the gemstone with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the gemstone.
2. Storage: When you’re not wearing your birthstone jewellery, store it in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in a jewellery box to prevent scratching or damage. Avoid storing different gemstones together, as they can scratch each other.
3. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals: Certain chemicals, such as chlorine and bleach, can damage or discolour gemstones. Remove your birthstone jewellery before swimming, cleaning, or using any household chemicals.
4. Protect from physical damage: Gemstones are susceptible to chips and scratches, so be mindful of wearing your birthstone jewellery during activities that may cause impact or abrasion. It’s a good idea to remove your jewellery when engaging in sports, gardening, or other physically demanding activities.
5. Regular inspections: Periodically inspect your birthstone jewellery for loose or damaged gemstones, as well as any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any issues, it’s best to take your jewellery to a professional jeweller for repair.

Final Thoughts and Invitation for a Personalised Consultation

At The Goldmarket, we believe that birthstone jewellery is not just about beautiful gems, but also about personal connection and meaningful stories. We understand that finding the perfect piece of jewellery to celebrate your birth month or commemorate a special moment can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re here to help.

We offer a range of options for personalising your birthstone jewellery, whether it’s custom-designing a piece from scratch or adding birthstone initials to an existing piece. You can also check out our extensive range of stock for something that catches your eye.

We pride ourselves on our craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that every piece of jewellery we create or sell is of the highest quality. We also understand the importance of affordability, which is why we offer a range of options to suit every budget.

If you’re unsure about where to start or need guidance on the best design for your birthstone jewellery, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our team. We’ll take the time to understand your preferences and provide you with a no-obligation quote. Let us help you create a piece of jewellery that is as unique as you are, and holds special meaning for years to come. Contact us on 01934 628361 or visit us at our Weston super Mare store. 

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing jewellery, For some, it is all about personal choice with no rules, while others like to make sure everything is exactly as it should be. We take a look at some general guidelines that can help you create a stylish and coordinated look.

Match the Metal

The most common metals for jewellery are gold, silver, and platinum. It’s generally best to stick to one metal per outfit, but you can mix if you do it carefully. For example, you could wear a gold necklace with silver earrings or a platinum bracelet with a gold ring if you wanted to. 

Many people prefer to stick to one colour metal. You could match platinum with white gold and silver – in these cases, no one can tell that your metal is different (unless, like us, they are trained experts). It becomes a little trickier when matching different colours like rose gold and yellow gold. Rose gold will go much better with platinum or white gold than it will with yellow. 

Consider the Colour of Your Clothing

When choosing jewellery, it’s also a good idea to consider the colours of your outfit. If you’re wearing a lot of bright colours, you can be more creative with your jewellery. But if you’re wearing more neutral colours, you might want to choose more understated pieces. 

Different metals work best with different colours too

• Silver jewellery is a classic choice that goes well with a variety of colours, including black, navy, and gray. It can also be worn with lighter colours, but it will be more noticeable.
• Gold is a warmer colour that goes well with warmer tones, such as brown, orange, and red. It can also be worn with neutral colours, but it will be more noticeable.
• Platinum is a silvery-white metal that is similar to silver, but it is more expensive. It goes well with a variety of colours, but it is especially flattering with black and white clothing.
• Colourful jewelry can be a great way to add some personality to your outfit. When choosing bolder pieces, it is important to consider the colors of your clothing and your skin tone. For example, if you have fair skin, you might want to choose jewellery with cooler colours, such as blue or green. If you have dark skin, you might want to choose warmer tones, such as red or orange.

Pay Attention to the Neckline of Your Clothing

The neckline of your clothing can also affect the way jewelry looks. For example, a long necklace will look best with a low neckline, while a shorter necklace will look better with a higher neckline. With some necklaces, it is advisable to forgo the necklace as it can look a little cluttered. 

Don’t Overdo it

It’s important not to overdo it. Too much jewellery can be overwhelming and detract from your outfit. A good rule of thumb is to choose one or two statement pieces and then add some more subtle pieces to complement them.

Tips for Wearing Different Types of Jewellery

• Necklaces can be a great way to add length and definition to your outfit. They can also help to draw attention to your face. When choosing a necklace, consider the neckline of your clothing and the length of the necklace. A long necklace will look best with a low neckline, while a shorter one will look better with a higher neckline.
• Earrings are a great way to add personality to your outfit. They can also help to balance out your face shape. When choosing earrings, consider the shape of your face and the style of your outfit. For example, if you have a round face, you might want to choose earrings that are long and dangling.
• Bracelets can add a touch of glamour to your outfit. They can also be used to stack different pieces together for a more unique look. When choosing bracelets, consider the style of your outfit and the metal you want to wear.
• Rings are a classic piece of jewellery that can be worn for any occasion. They can be used to add a touch of sparkle to your outfit or to make a statement. When choosing rings, consider the size of your fingers and the style of your outfit.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the items that best suit the look is to experiment and find what works best for you. There are no right or wrong answers, so have fun with it and see what you can create!

Why not come along to The Goldmarket and discover our extensive range of jewellery. We have lots in stock but if we don’t have what you are looking for, we can often source it for you. We also offer a bespoke design and creation service so you could commission us to make something special.

The engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment that has been around for centuries. The tradition of giving an engagement ring can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where rings were given as a sign of ownership. In Roman times, rings were also given as a symbol of marriage, and the tradition continued throughout the Middle Ages.

Why Diamonds?

In the 15th century, diamonds became the most popular gemstone for engagement rings. This was due in part to the discovery of large diamond deposits in Brazil, which made diamonds more accessible and affordable. The first recorded diamond engagement ring was given in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy.

Unique Ancient Bronze Stone Ring, Excavated Artifact, 13th-17th Century AD.

The popularity of diamond engagement rings continued to grow in the 16th and 17th centuries. During this time, it became customary for the groom to spend one month’s salary on an engagement ring. This tradition still holds true today, although the cost of engagement rings has increased significantly in recent years.

Popularity Grew

In the 19th century, the engagement ring became even more popular as a symbol of love and commitment. This was due in part to the rise of the romantic novel, which often featured engagement rings as a sign of the hero’s love for the heroine.

The tradition of giving an engagement ring has continued to this day, and it remains one of the most popular ways to propose marriage. While the style and cost of engagement rings have changed over the years, the meaning of the ring has remained the same: it is a symbol of love, commitment, and a promise for the future.

Let’s take a look at some of the key moments in the history of the engagement ring:

• Ancient Egypt: Rings were given as a sign of ownership.
• Roman Empire: Rings were given as a symbol of marriage.
• 15th century: Diamonds became the most popular gemstone for engagement rings.
• 16th and 17th centuries: It became customary for the groom to spend one month’s salary on an engagement ring.
• 19th century: The engagement ring became even more popular as a symbol of love and commitment.
• 20th century: The diamond engagement ring became the standard in Western cultures.
• 21st century: Engagement rings continue to be popular, but there is more variety in style and cost.

The Different Types of Engagement Ring

Solitaire: A solitaire engagement ring features a single center stone, which is usually a diamond. This is the most classic and popular style of engagement ring.

Halo: A halo engagement ring features a center stone surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds. This style is popular because it makes the center stone look larger and more glamorous.

Three-stone: A three-stone engagement ring features three stones, usually a larger center stone flanked by two smaller stones. This style is symbolic of the past, present, and future.

Pavé: A pavé engagement ring features a band that is set with small diamonds or other gemstones. This style is popular because it is very sparkly and eye-catching.

Eternity: An eternity engagement ring features a band that is set with diamonds or other gemstones all the way around. This style is symbolic of eternal love. Usually given on the birth of a child or for a significant occasion however, they can be used as engagement ring. 

Additional factors to consider when choosing an engagement ring:

• The size and shape of the center stone will have a big impact on the overall look of the ring. If you want a classic look, you might choose a round brilliant diamond. If you want something more unique, you might choose a pear-shaped diamond or an emerald-cut diamond.
• The metal band of the ring can also affect the overall look. The most popular metal bands are platinum, gold, and silver. Platinum is the most durable metal, while gold is the most affordable. Silver is a good option if you are looking for a more casual look.
• The setting of the ring refers to how the center stone is mounted in the band. There are many different settings available, such as prong, bezel, and cathedral. The setting will affect the way the light reflects off of the center stone, so it is important to choose a setting that you think looks good.
• The budget: Engagement rings can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you do not overspend.

The Future of the Engagement Ring

It is impossible to say for sure what the future holds for the engagement ring. However, it is likely that the tradition will continue to evolve. As new gemstones become available and new trends emerge, engagement rings will continue to change. However, the meaning of the ring is likely to remain the same: it is a symbol of love, commitment, and a promise for the future.

Conclusion

The engagement ring is a symbol with a long and rich history. It is a symbol of love, commitment, and a promise for the future. While the style and cost of engagement rings have changed over the years, the meaning of the ring has remained the same. It is a tradition that is likely to continue for many years to come.

If you are looking for something special, perhaps a bespoke design, we can help. In addition to having many engagement rings in stock here at The Goldmarket, we can also help you create your very own individual design. 

At The Goldmarket, we are delighted to be able to offer an extensive jewellery repairs and resizing service to a wide selection of jewellery. From resizing an engagement ring, to carrying out repairs on delicate, antique pieces, we pride ourselves on the quality of our craftmanship. As well as having highly skilled technicians and craftsmen, we are also in possession of the finest technology. This includes an in house laser welding machine which allows us to be able to offer a far more superior and skilled service than many others. 

Previous to our acquisition of this particular piece of technology, anything too fine or intricate would have had to be sent away for external repairs which would involve a delay and incur additional costs. By investing in this technology we can provide a much quicker turnaround and a much more detailed range of repair services, while saving our customers money. 

What is a laser welding machine? 

A laser welding machine emits a fine laser beam directly to the area that requires work.

For clarity, here is the tech part…

‘Laser welding reconfigures the molecular structure of similar or dissimilar metals at the point of welding. This allows the the two common alloys to become one.’

We also use fine solder wire in our repairs. The carat of the solder that we use depends on the piece that we are working on – 9ct yellow gold solder wire for a 9ct yellow piece, 18ct white gold wire for white gold and so on. We can also carry out platinum and stainless steel repairs too. Another fact – we use recycled gold wire so that our jewellery repairs are more sustainable therefore enabling us to reduce our carbon footprint as a business.

Why use a laser welding machine? 

The primary reason for using a laser welder in jewellery repairs and resizing, is precision. The laser beam that is emitted from the machine we use here at The Goldmarket is 0.2mm. This means we can now take on fine or delicate work that would normally  be difficult to complete with the standard solder machines that are widely used in the industry. 

There is also much less heat transference. This is especially beneficial with porous or delicate stones like opals, pearls and emeralds which would normally have to be ‘unset” or packed with heat resistant gels to be able to work anywhere near them.

Using a laser welder, we can now complete claw work, repairs or sizing jobs without the need to unset or disturb the stones. This is also a benefit when working with hollow metals as the heat transference is less meaning we are far less likely to melt the metal. A laser welding machine is great for the following:

• Fill porosity
• Re-tip platinum or gold prong settings
• Repair bezel settings
• Resize or repair rings without removing the stones

Calibre watches

In addition to jewellery repairs, we are able to use the laser welder to carry out work on calibre watches. We can repair deeps scratches and gouges with precision and restore the piece to its former glory.

Some examples of our work 

Here are just some examples of the work that we have carried out that, without the laser welding machine, we would not be able to complete here, at our workbench in Weston super Mare. The first is a 9ct yellow gold curb bracelet with a broken link. The reason that the laser welder was required in this instance is that hollow gold is much more vulnerable when soldering. The heat transference can be such that the gold melts. With the laser welder, the heat transference is minimal therefore there is no risk of causing further damage.

We also mentioned stones and how we can work on items with less heat transference. When it came to the below sapphire and diamond cluster, we were able to repair a claw and reset the lost stone without causing damage to the stones either side.

We have so many examples of excellent work that we have carried out using this laser welding technology and are happy to discuss your requirements with you before committing to any repairs. In the first instance, we recommend that you bring the item to us so that we can carry out a thorough inspection of the work required and advise of a cost and timeframe. We can then arrange to book the item in for repair and have it looking as good as new again.

Simply pop in and see us at 23 High Street, Weston super Mare and our team will be happy to help.

There are many reasons for wanting a ring resized. Perhaps you have inherited a family heirloom that you wish to wear yourself or maybe you bought a piece that doesn’t fit. Other reasons for ring resizing include weight loss or gain or the desire to wear a ring on a different finger. At The Goldmarket, ring resizing is a popular service, and something we have extensive experience with.

We take a look at the process and what it entails as well as sharing some examples of our work.

What Metal is the Ring Made From?

Most of the rings bought to us for resizing are either gold, white gold or platinum however, we also get requests to resize silver rings and even palladium.

In the case of silver, if it is a plain ring, we can fulfil the request however, if it is stone set then unfortunately, we can’t. If the ring is platinum the process will involve laser welding and can take longer.

What Size Does Should the Ring Be?

The first step is to measure the finger that you wish to wear the ring on to make sure that we know the correct size. We will measure both your finger and the current ring size and then calculate how much needs to be added or removed for the ring to fit correctly.

Increasing the Ring Size

 Increasing the size of a ring requires a new piece of metal to be added to the shank. It must  be the same material as the ring to ensure a good match – 18ct white gold for an 18ct white gold ring etc.

The gallery below showcases a recent ring resize carried out by our talented jeweller in house.

As you can see, the first step is to heat the ring to find the original join line (anneal the ring). Then we carefully cut the shank down that same fire line if possible and then offer up the new metal which has to be accurately measured to ensure the ring is sized correctly.

The next step is to solder, or laser weld, the new piece into place ensuring that the shank is strong. The process used will depend on the nature of the ring that we are working on and whether there are any adjacent stones that could be damaged by the heat of the solder, for example. We are lucky to be able to offer laser welding at The Goldmarket which means we can offer an extensive range of services on all manner of rings and jewellery.

Once the ring has been soldered, or lasered, the shank will then be filed and polished to remove any evidence of the join and to blend the metal of the existing ring with the new piece. This requires a careful hand and a keen eye, something our jewellers most certainly have.

Resizing a Gent’s Ring

This was another example of a recent ring up-size. This time, it was a much heavier, diamond set, 9ct gold gents ring. We had to saw through the shank to open up the ring so that piece of 9ct gold could be inserted into the ring to expand the size of the shank. Once this is done, the ring is soldered and then shaped, buffed, polished and cleaned as per the images below.

Reducing the Ring Size

In many instances, reducing the size of a ring is simpler than increasing the size of the ring as we don’t have to add any new metal to the shank. Instead, we are removing a piece to ensure that the ring fits accordingly. Using the same process required to increase the size of a ring, the shank is cut, the correct sized piece of metal is removed, and the ring is soldered, or lasered, back together. The join is then filed, buffed, and polished using specialist machinery and the ring is good as new.

However, it is not always so straightforward and very much depends on the style and design of the piece in question – the stones and the type of setting. If a ring is micro bead set for example, and has to come down more than a few sizes, it can become problematic and, in some cases, impossible. It is important that we have sight of the ring in the first instance so that we can assess the job and the work involved.

How Much Does it Cost?

A simple ring resizing up or down costs from £35 however, because every ring is different and the requirements will be unique, we would ask that you contact us first.

You can find out more about the process, the cost and how to book an appointment here but the best thing to do is pop in and see us. We will be able to examine the ring and tell you if it’s a job that we can complete on site, and, how long it will take.

Our Talented Jewellers

We are very lucky to have two very talented jewellers working at our in-house bench in Weston super Mare. Often, they can carry out work while you wait, or certainly within a few hours. This will depend on how busy they are and the nature of the job. We are fortunate to have specialist laser welding equipment on site which means that we can carry out almost every type of repair at our workbench. If it is a complex job, or you bring it to us at an extremely busy time, we may require the ring for longer but if we can’t carry out the ring re-size ourselves, it is highly unlikely that anyone can.

If you have a ring that needs re-sizing, the best thing is to bring or post it in for us to assess. Bringing it in to us is preferable, especially with the unpredictable postal situation.  We can then accurately tell you what is required, if it is something we can do in house and how long it will take. We can also give you a quote for the work as well. All of our work is covered by a 12 month guarantee however, it is very rare that there are ever any issues and your resized ring will be as good as the day you bought it.

The inspiration for our latest blog came from a bespoke engagement ring project for a client who wanted to propose to his partner with a ring that, at this stage, only existed only in his head. It was our job to try and extract that vision and bring it to life. This article documents the journey, how we arrived at the final piece and his partner’s answer to the all important question.

The Initial Consultation 

The process of designing a bespoke engagement ring starts with an idea, a vision or maybe even a photo of something similar. In this case, the client came to us with an idea that he had managed to sketch out on paper so that we had a starting base and some idea of what he was looking for. We then took those ideas, along with his verbal requests and our designer sketched out a number of variations of the design for him to peruse. 

Building a Wax Model 

Once we had the drawings agreed in principle, we could then get to work on the next stage in the process. Creating the wax mould of the ring mount so that it could be cast in metal. 

Now, when working with precious metal (in this case platinum), it can get very costly so in the first instance, we always create a silver mount. This way the client can see what the finished product will look like and make any changes to the silver model.

The wax mould

We are able to set the diamonds in the mount and remove them thus creating the overall impact of the finished design. 

This is the ideal time to make any significant changes and ensure that we get the mount absolutely right – including getting as close to the correct size as possible. We can do this using other pieces of jewellery if you are able to sneak them to us under the radar. If not, we can always adjust at a later date. 

The silver mount

Creating the Final Design 

Once the client has inspected the silver mount (and tried it on – if the ring is not intended as a surprise), we are then able to cast the ring in precious metal and set the stone/s in the permanent mount. All that is left to do then is present the finished article to the client. 

The final design

Popping the Question

Once we have created the ring and bought your designs to life and quite frankly, obliterated your expectations (yes we are that confident), its’ over to you. We can’t propose for you although we reckon we’d be great at that too. In this instance, the lady said “yes” and we couldn’t be happier for this lovely couple. The ring will last a lifetime, and those smiles will too! 

She said “yes”

Additional Ideas and Services

In addition to creating the ring of your partner’s dreams, we can also add a few other bespoke touches such as engraving the ring. Some people choose to have the date they met engraved on the inside of the band, or their names/initials. Some even have the coordinates of where they met engraved. We can also take existing pieces of jewellery, or elements of them, to create stunning designs that are super special.

All you need to do in the first instance is get in touch. Book a time to come in and see us and let’s discuss what you are trying to achieve. We have lots of ideas and inspiration that we can add to the mix too so that you can create a bespoke engagement ring that will win the heart of your beloved.

Diamonds are forever, and like anything that is forever, a big commitment! When selecting the perfect diamonds for you, there are a number of things to consider. In addition to the colour and style, you also need to consider the cut and clarity and your budget. Let’s call it the four C’s and examine each in further detail in our guide to choosing diamonds:

• Colour
• Clarity
• Cut
• Cost

Colour

There are many shades of diamond in addition to the traditional white diamonds. Fancy something different? Looking for pink or blue maybe? You have options. In fact, we have produced a whole article on the various colours of diamonds available which you can find here. Just bear in mind that opting for something other than white is going to increase the budget somewhat.

• White – the most popular colour and most widely available
• Champagne – more neutral/pale but you can find champagne diamonds with a pinkish tinge
• Green / Blue – Among the rarest and most valuable in the world. You will may more if you want to obtain a blue or green diamond
• Grey – for a more subtle and some might say, more dignified look. Classy and professional

You may not be aware of just how many different colours of diamond are available. In fact, it very much depends on personal taste. If you are buying diamonds as a gift or surprise, it is always wise to stick with white unless you know exactly what you are looking for.

Clarity

What do we mean by ‘clarity’ when it comes to choosing diamonds?

Natural diamonds are created deep in the earth. They are the result of carbon being exposed to incredible heat and pressure. The diamonds produced have internal characteristics which are referred to as inclusions and then blemishes which are external characteristics. The value of a diamond will depend on the size, position and nature of these inclusions and blemishes While it is almost impossible to find a ‘pure’ diamond, the better the clarity, the more valuable a diamond is.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) use a grading system to assist in the evaluation of diamonds. Within this there are 6 categories, some of which are divided, giving a total of  11 grades. These grades are as follows:

• Flawless (FL) – no inclusions/blemishes visible
• Internally Flawless (IF) – no inclusions visble
• Very, Very Slightly Included – VVS and VVS_{2 –}inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see
• Very Slightly Included (VS₁and VS₂) Inclusions are observed with effort and charatyerised as minor
• Slightly Included (SI₁and SI₂) Inclusions are noticeable
• Included (I₁, I₂, and I₃)Inclusions are obvious and may affect transparency and brilliance

All of the above relate to the diamonds being examined under 10x magnification.

At The Goldmarket, we are able to value diamonds using this grading system.

Cut

The cut refers to the shape of the diamond. 75% of all diamonds sold are actually round cut but there are many others to consider. We go into much more detail in our blog Which Diamond Cut Should You Choose for Your Engagement Ring? but essentially you can choose from the following:

• Round
• Princess
• Oval
• Marquise
• Pear
• Cushion
• Emerald
• Asscher
• Radiant
• Heart-cut

A Marquise cut engagement ring

Then there are fancy cuts which include modified brilliants, step-cuts, mixed-cuts and rose-cuts. It is definitely worth checking out all the different cuts to find one that you prefer.

Cost

Last, and by no means least, there is the matter of cost. All of the aforementioned – colour, clarity and cut, will affect the cost of the diamond that you choose.

Most recently (May 22), The Pink Star, is the largest know diamond to have received a Vivid Pink Colour Grade. It sold for $71 million in Hong Kong. This oval-shaped 59.6 carat pink diamond broke records for the highest price ever paid for a jewel.

Now we don’t suggest for one minute that you have millions of pounds to spend on a diamond but can assure you is that if you come to The Goldmarket, we will help you find the best diamond to suit your taste and your budget.

Diamonds are Forever

Our commitment to finding the perfect jewellery doesn’t end with this brief guide to choosing diamonds. At The Goldmarket, we can create bespoke designs and pieces for you. Have you got a diamond that you would like setting into a new mount? Want to use the diamonds from a sentimental piece to create a new piece? We can help and have years of experience in matching the right diamonds with our happy clients.

Just pop along to The Goldmarket and let us help you find exactly what you are looking for.

With the Queen about to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee, we thought it timely to write a piece about this precious metal, where it comes from, why it is so much more valuable than gold and why platinum jewellery is such a popular choice for many.

A Brief Overview of Platinum

Only really used in the production of jewellery since the 19^thcentury (unlike gold which has been used for centuries), platinum was actually first discovered in 1557. In the late 16^thcentury, it was discovered by Spanish Conquistadors in the rivers in Ecuador. Of course, they had no understanding of its value and simply named it platina, throwing it back into the rivers for it to “ripen” into silver. Fast forward to today and we are much more aware of its benefits and value.

A Rare Precious Metal When Compared to Others

A far cry from the 16^thcentury, now we know platinum to be one of the rarest and most durable of the precious metals. In fact, if you took all of the platinum ever mined and put it in one room, it would actually fit into the average living room. That is not a lot – especially when you consider how many platinum wedding rings must exist.

Why Choose Platinum?

Platinum is an extremely durable and hard wearing metal weighing 60% more than gold. It maintains its luminosity unlike other metals which may tarnish. It is resistant to tarnishing and discolouration and it’s strong white lustre makes it an extremely popular choice

Aside from how shiny and hardwearing it is, many choose it as it is a hypoallergenic metal – great for those with sensitive skin that cannot wear other metals.

Some Interesting Platinum Facts

Here are a few snippets about this rare but favoured precious metal that you may not know already:

• The Hope Diamond is set in platinum
• It is great for every day wear due to its strength and durability
• Platinum doesn’t wear away and if you scratch it, you don’t lose any of the metal, it just displaces.
• It doesn’t fade, discolour or tarnish
• It’s hallmark is PT or PLAT. In Europe, platinum is identified by the following marks: 950 or PT950.

The Queen’s Platinum Jewellery Collection

Now, we can’t let the occasion pass without discussing some of the Queen’s platinum collection:

Nizam of Hyderabad Brooch

CREDIT: GETTY

The Queen often wears this brooch, which is actually the centerpiece of the Nizam of Hyderabad tiara.

Fern Brooch

A platinum fern brooch featuring diamonds was given to Her Majesty by the Women of Auckland on Christmas in 1953, when she toured New Zealand. It has also been worn by the Duchess of Cambridge.

Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara

CREDIT: GETTY

This particular tiara was worn by Princess Eugenie on her wedding day. It is made of brilliant and rose cut diamonds pavé set in platinum, with six emeralds on either side.

Queen Mary’s Floret Earrings

CREDIT: GETTY

The main diamonds from these earrings were a gift to Queen Mary in honour of her July 1893 wedding. They have gone through a number of settings before becoming the centre piece of their current iteration. Set in platinum, the diamonds are surrounded by seven smaller diamonds for a floret effect.

King Faisal Necklace

CREDIT: GETTY

In May 1967, King Faisal of Saudi Arabia headed to the U.K. for a state visit — and brought this dazzling gift for the Queen in the form of a diamond necklace made by Harry Winston in the 1950s.

These are just a few of Queen Elizabeth’s famous platinum collection but let’s face it, it is a metal that is fit for a queen!

Caring for Platinum Jewellery

However durable and resilient this precious metal is, it is still highly important to look after your platinum jewellery. Avoid wearing it for manual labour or while at the gym/during exercise. Don’t allow your pieces to touch each other. In fact, it’s best if you can store your pieces separately in a fabric lined box. You should also be careful not to handle abrasives or acids while wearing platinum rings.

If your platinum jewellery does become scratched, fear not. At The Goldmarket, we have the tools to polish out those scratches and re-rhodium it to bring it up like new. You could even check out our collection of platinum jewellery while you are here!