14kt : 14 karat gold consists of 14 parts pure gold (58.3%) and 10 parts other alloys. The karat count reflects the ratio of gold to other alloys. 100% gold is too soft to use for jewelry, so we use other metal alloys to strengthen the gold and determine its color.
18kt : 18 karat gold consists of 18 parts pure gold (75%) and 6 parts other alloys. The karat count reflects the ratio of gold to other alloys. 100% gold is too soft to use for jewelry, so we use other metal alloys to strengthen the gold and determine its color.
AGS : The American Gem Society Laboratories is one of the world’s foremost diamond grading institutions. The laboratory issues a thorough diamond quality report assessing color, clarity, carat weight and cut for each diamond graded. Your AGS certificate is useful in evaluating your diamond’s unique qualities and characteristics.
Asscher cut
The Asscher cut is essentially a square emerald cut, developed by the Asscher Brothers of Holland in 1902.
Baguette : The baguette cut is a long, rectangular or tapered shape, used frequently in eternity bands and earrings, or as side stones to complement a different center stone cut. “Baguette” means “rod” or “stick” in French.
Bezel Set : Bezel settings consist of metal wrapped around the gem’s girdle, leaving on the crown and table visible. This setting is a great choice for security and protection, and its ability to mask certain inclusions.
Brilliance : Brilliance is the total amount of white light returned to the eye from a diamond or colored stone as a function of internal and external reflections. A gem’s brilliance is determined primarily by its refractive index, proportions, polish and symmetry.
CAD : CAD or Computer Aided Design incorporates cutting-edge technology to design Jewelry in a computerized 3D environment. Every diamond or colored stone used has to be gauged to a 0.01mm tolerance to assure perfect fit in the setting. We then implement a program that actually builds a wax-mold in slices from the ground up. The results are, as you see on our site, quite spectacular.
Carat :
Carat weight is one of the four Cs determining a diamond’s quality and value. The carat is the metric unit of measurement for diamonds and gemstones. A single carat (ct.) equals 100 points, 200 milligrams or 1/5 of a gram. It should be noted that two diamonds of the same carat weight may appear to be very different in size, depending on the given cut and proportions.
Cathedral Setting : A cathedral setting is a simple band with arches visible from the sides. Numined Diamonds offers several variations of the cathedral setting, from the classical style to contemporary variations, including tension settings.
Certificate : Certification protects the buyer by providing an objective, unbiased description of a diamond’s unique qualities and characteristics that determine its value and worth. Numined Diamonds deals exclusively with GIA and AGS certified diamonds in order to assure the very best quality for our customers. When you purchase your jewelry you will receive your certificate for your records.
Channel Set : The channel setting features multiple diamonds or colored stones resting against each other and held in place by a thin rim which runs along the edges of the channel.
Clarity : Clarity is one of the four Cs determining a diamond’s quality and value. Clarity refers to a diamond’s internal characteristics and the perfection of its crystalline structure. Diamonds are ranked on a scale from flawless to included. Numined Diamonds only works with diamonds graded SI1-2 (slightly included) or better.
Color : Color tells you a lot about the quality of the diamond and makes all the difference in an ideal diamond.
Color
Color is one of the four Cs determining a diamond’s quality and value. The color of a diamond’s body is graded on a scale from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow) as part of the certification process. All other factors being equal, a diamond’s value increases as its color decreases, fancy colors not withstanding.
Comfort-fit : Comfort fit bands feature a rounded interior for easy constant wear.
Crown : The crown is the upper part of a diamond or colored stone, from the girdle to the table.
Crown Angle : Crown angle is the angle where the diamond’s bezel facets intersect with the girdle plane. The positioning of these facets is critical in determining the amount of light dispersion and fire in a diamond. Optimal crown angle varies for each diamond shape.
Crown Height : The crown height is the measured distance between the girdle plane and the table. Optimal crown height varies for each shape.
Culet : The culet is the bottommost facet at the tip of a diamond or colored stone’s pavilion. It is cut to prevent breakage at the tip. We prefer a None size culet to eliminate light leakage.
Cushion Cut : Cushion cut diamonds feature rounded corners and larger facets to increase brilliance. Depending on the length-to-width ratio cushion cuts are available in a range of square and rectangular shapes.
Cut :
Cut is one of the four Cs determining a diamond’s quality and value. Cut refers to the proportions, symmetry and polish of a diamond. A diamond’s cut is the most significant factor contributing to its sparkle, fire and brilliance. Our Cut Grades are very helpful in determining the beauty of your new diamond and range from SIGNATURE cut, representing the best we offer, through Ideal, Very-Good then Good cut.
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Cut Grade : Cut grade analysis is an evaluation of a diamond’s proportions and dimensions, with each shape assessed according to a specific set of standards.
Cut Grade Analysis : Cut grade analysis is an evaluation of a diamond’s proportions and dimensions, with each shape assessed according to a specific set of standards.
Depth : The depth of a diamond or gemstone is measured from the table to the culet and it is a major factor determining beauty and proportions. Excessively deep or shallow diamonds may exhibit light leakage, resulting in diminished sparkle and brilliance. An overly deep cut will result in a smaller looking diamond.
Numined : The Numined is the grading and inscription registry service provided by the GIA for diamonds weighing less than one carat. For a fraction of their standard grading and inscription fees, the Numined includes a grading report and laser inscription of your unique GIA report number on the girdle of your diamond.
EightStar™ :
The EightStar™ is a rare and exclusive round diamond that draws exceptional beauty from its cut, created for perfect light return. EightStar™ diamonds are not listed in our online inventory, please Contact us or email for more information.
Emerald Cut : Emerald cut diamonds feature rectangular facets cut into the pavilion, resulting in a unique optical appearance. With its large open table, beveled corners and step cut, the emerald shape highlights a diamond’s clarity.
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Eternity Band : An eternity band is a ring set with a continuous row of diamonds and/or colored stones. Traditionally given to mark an anniversary or the birth of a child, the eternity band is an increasingly popular wedding band choice.
Facet : A facet is one of the small, flat surface that is cut and polished on a diamond or colored stone to maximize brilliance and beauty. More facets create more sparkle, as seen in radiant and princess cut diamonds.
Fancy Color : Extremely rare, fancy colored diamonds are prized for their deep red, blue, green, pink, brown or yellow hue. Red is the least common and most valuable of all fancy colored diamonds. Fancy colored diamonds are graded on a different system than other diamonds, assessed for both the presence of color and its characteristics.
Feather : A feather is a fracture or break in a diamond or colored stone, so called for its feathery white appearance. While most feathers are internal, a feather that reaches the surface of a diamond runs the risk of further opening in the event of a blow to the area, potentially fracturing the diamond.
Filigree : Filigree is the result of precious metal wire worked into patterns then soldered into place. The intricate, lacy look of filigree is featured on many vintage styles offered by Numined Diamonds.
Fire : The fire of a diamond or gemstone is the flashes of spectral color produced by light dispersion.
Fluorescence : Fluorescence is the emission of visible light by a diamond when exposed to ultraviolet light. Diamonds exhibiting fluorescence will emit a blue glow when viewed under black lighting. A diamond’s fluorescence intensity is measured during the laboratory grading process ranging from None, Faint, Medium, Strong and Very-Strong; some that emit a Very-Strong Blue fluorescence may appear cloudy or hazy – Numined Diamonds does not sell these type diamonds.
Fracture : A fracture is a break within a diamond or colored stone.
Back to IndexFrench Pave’ : French pave’ is a specialized setting method originated in France where a diamond is held individually by 4 prongs and is raised while a U shaped openning is dug underneath. This setting style requires a Microscope to set each diamond and results in unparalleled sparkle and beauty.Back to Index
GIA : The Gemological Institute of America is the world’s foremost authority on diamond grading and identification. A nonprofit institute devoted to gemological research and learning, the GIA has graded some of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the Hope diamond and the Centenary diamond.
Girdle : The girdle is the narrow band around the widest part of a diamond or colored stone, dividing the crown and pavilion facets. An even Girdle is a great indication for higher grade of Symmetry in the diamond.
Google Checkout : Numined Diamonds has partnered with Google Checkout™ in order to allow our customers a variety of purchasing options.
Using Google Checkout™ can simplify ordering online in the following ways:
- You can save $50 off your order of $2,500 or more.
- You can quickly & easily buy from stores across the web using one account.
- You are able to track all your orders and shipping in one place.
- Your debit or credit card information is stored in one secure place.
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Halo : A halo setting features small diamonds and/or colored stones surrounding a larger center stone. Halos may be used in conjunction with bezel or prong settings. The classic style has come into vogue in recent years, and it is a great way to maximize the appearance of a center stone’s size.
Heart Shape : The heart shape is a variation of the round cut, providing the brilliance and sparkle of a round diamond in the shape of a heart.
Hearts & Arrows : “Hearts & Arrows” diamonds are precision cut Round diamonds exhibiting kaleidoscopic patterns of Hearts and Arrows when placed under a reflective viewer. It takes an extreme degree of symmetry to achieve such perfection and Numined Diamonds is proud to offer these extraordinary diamonds. We also provide a special reflective H&A viewer as a gift with the purchase of any “Hearts & Arrows” diamond.
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How to pick a diamond : Lots of ways to do this. Just take a look. All you have to do is know what you want to do.
Inclusion : Inclusions are the naturally occurring characteristics present in diamonds and gemstones. Some inclusions typical to diamonds are feathers, fractures, graining, pinpoints and cavities.
Karat : The karat is the standard measurement of gold. Pure gold is 24 karats, which is too soft for jewelry. Numined Diamonds works with 14k and 18k, which consists of pure gold mixed with other alloys.
Knife-edge : Knife-edge rings are named for their resemblance to a knife blade, thick at the base and tapering up to a point. Knife-edge rings are a beautiful option for both engagement rings and wedding bands. The six-prong solitaire with a tapered knife-edge band is an iconic engagement ring.
Leakage : Leakage occurs when light leaves a diamond through its pavilion instead of returning towards the viewer’s eye. Leakage is a result of poor cut, resulting in a dull appearance when placed in a setting.
Length to Width Ratio : The length-to-width ratio is a comparison of the length and the width of a fancy shape diamond. This ratio expresses how relatively long or wide a diamond appears when viewed from the top. Each of the fancy shapes (Princess, Asscher, Emerald, Radiant, Cushion, Oval, Pear, Heart) has a certain length-to-width ratio that is considered most appealing for that shape, however, personal preference prevails, and some may prefer a shorter, wider outline; or longer, thinner shape.
Marquise : The marquise shape is elongated and pointed at both ends. According to legend, France’s Louis XIV, the Sun King, was so taken by the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, that he commissioned a diamond that echoed the shape of her mouth.
Milgrain : Milgrain is a decorative technique in which a raised beaded edge is created with a special tool, resulting in an antique look.
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Oval Cut : The oval diamond exhibits brilliance comparable to a round diamond. Ovals are a beautiful option to highlight long, slender fingers.
Pavé : Pavé consists of multiple small diamonds set close together in a surface and held in place by tiny prongs, created by hand from the surrounding metal with the use of a special tool. In a pavé setting all of the diamonds’ tables are level with the surface of the setting, producing an antique look. Also, see French Pave’.
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Pavilion : The pavilion is the lower part of a diamond or colored stone, from the girdle down to the culet.
Pavilion Angle : The pavilion angle is the angle of the pavilion facets in relation to the girdle plane.
Pavilion Depth : Pavilion depth is a significant factor in a diamond’s proportions, affecting brilliance. Pavilion depth percentage is calculated by dividing a diamond’s crown height by its average girdle diameter.
Pear Shape : The pear shape diamond has the appearance of a tear drop, with a rounded bottom edge and a point at the top.
Platinum : Of the precious metals (silver, gold and platinum), platinum is the most durable. It is the hardest and has the highest melting point. The standard for platinum jewelry is 90% purity (Plat 900), and it is most commonly combined with 10% iridium, palladium or ruthenium. 95% pure Plat950 is available from Numined Diamonds on request. Platinum is an optimal setting for diamond jewelry because its color amplifies brilliance and sparkle, while its strength assures an extremely secure setting. Platinum is usually the best metal choice for allergy sufferers.
Plot : A plot is a color-coded diagram of a diamond’s important clarity characteristics marking the location of each inclusion, included with each certificate (with the exception of the GIA Diamond Dossier®).
Point : A point is 1/100 of a carat; a 50 point diamond is a half carat.
Polish : Polish is the condition of a diamond’s surface. While the condition of individual facets is not visible to the naked eye, the cumulative effects of each facet’s polish significantly effect a diamond’s overall appearance.
Princess Cut : The princess cut is a square diamond with pointed corners. This shape was designed in the 1960s to get maximum fire and brilliance from a square cut.
Radiant Cut : The radiant cut is a rectangular or square stone featuring clipped corners and approximately 70 facets.
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Rose Gold : Rose gold gets its beautiful pink tone from an increased ratio of copper in the metal alloys used to strengthen pure gold.
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Round Cut : The round diamond is by far the most popular and common of all diamond shapes, consisting of a total of 58 facets designed for maximum brilliance.
Shape : Diamonds come in many different shapes, what’s your favorite? Here are links to some of the most popular diamond shapes:
Round, Princess, Radiant, Cushion, Asscher, Oval, Marquise.
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Solitaire : Solitaire refers to a ring, earrings or necklace containing a single diamond or colored stone. Solitaires may be bezel or half-bezel set, tension set or prong set, using three, four or six prongs.
Symmetry : Symmetry grade is the determination of facets alignment in the diamond. Perfect facets alignment and high symmetry grade results in minimal loss of light. In some cases, low symmetry grade is an indication of off-center tables, unequal facets, and the inconsistency of the girdle thickness.
Table : A diamond’s Table, which is the flat facet at the uppermost part of the diamond, is crucial to it’s brilliance. As the Table size (%) gets smaller, the Crown size and height increase and so is the diamond’s ability to collect light from a 45 degree angle, resulting in maximum fire and brilliance.
Tension Rings : First invented in 1970 in Germany, Tension Rings are an excellent way to display your new diamond. Numined Diamonds’s Tension Rings are made by Gelin Abaci, the largest of only 4 companies worldwide, and are made by combining special alloys with Gold or Platinum while incorporating proprietary technique which enables the metal to retain its ‘memory’ and maintain up to 95lbs of pressure on the center diamond (Ruby, Sapphire, CZ and Moissanite can be set as well, Contact us for details). To date, no known diamond losses reported due to the design or craftsmanship of tension set rings. Every tension ring is closely inspected to ensure it meets Gelin Abaci’s high standards and every Tension Ring is custom made for a specific diamond size and finger size.
Trellis : The trellis setting is a classic four prong setting in which the prongs sweep upward and cross over from the band, just like the latticework in an English garden. It is a particularly beautiful option for three stone rings.
Triangle Cut : Triangle shape diamonds feature three distinct sides and a step cut.
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