diamante

How much is your stone worth?

How much are the stones in your jewels worth?

Raise your hand if you don’t have at least one jewel with colored gems and have never wondered how much that stone is really worth. Amethyst or ruby, emerald or citrine, sapphire or moonstone: there are not only diamonds. But how much are colored stones worth? How much is a ruby ​​worth? Or an emerald? Or, again, aquamarine? If you want to know how much the gem you have set on the ring is worth, or in a necklace, earrings or bracelet, read here. We try to explain in a simple way what are the characteristics that determine the value of a colored stone.

Filippo G&G, pietra ametista e di diverso tipo
Filippo G&G, gems of different types

Of course, there is immediately a fairly obvious aspect: in general, the value is determined by how rare a gem is. A ruby, always in principle, has a higher value than a simple citrine quartz. But this is only a starting point. In fact, it is not said that in reality this is the case. Let’s see, instead, what are the criteria that guide the evaluation of a precious or semi-precious stone.

Anelli con pietra di colore by Bulgari
Bulgari gemstone rings

The starting point is that the value of a colored stone depends on several factors, not just one. Hence, the estimated price doesn’t just depend on the weight and volume of a stone. So, as we said, it is not even the type of stone that determines its absolute value. If you have a ring with a sapphire, it is likely to have a value greater than that of a moonstone. Probable, but certainly not. For example, diamonds are also used in industry, since they are the hardest material that exists. And, of course, the diamonds used to cut ceramic tiles are not of the same quality as those found in jewelry. This is to make it clear that the same type of mineral can have very different qualities.

Orecchini in oro, diamanti, gemme colorate
Earrings in gold, diamonds, colored gems

The 4C
As with diamonds, precious colored and semi-precious stones are also valued for the classic 4C: color, clarity, cut (in English cut) and carat weight (which also determines the size). But among these 4C the first is the most important: the color. Of course, let’s talk about colored stones.

Gemme per Liaison de Couleurs
Paul Wild, gems for Liaison de Couleurs

Color
For precious (emerald, ruby ​​and sapphire) or semi-precious (all others) colored stones, the color is assessed with three different criteria: hue (name of color), tone (darkness and brightness) and saturation (vividness) . The relationship between hue, tone and saturation is the most important aspect for evaluating a colored stone. This is why emeralds (or rubies, sapphires, etc.) are not all the same. In general, when a gem has a more saturated color it will also be darker. To obtain a more saturated color, the stones are often subjected to particular processes: for example, they are subjected to intense heat, radiation, or treated with chemicals (not harmful). Natural stones, untreated, have a higher value, obviously with the same appearance and weight.
But if you want to observe what the exact color of your stone is, pay attention to the light source: a light bulb that illuminates with yellow hue, for example, can make your stone appear in a different shade than the natural one.

The duPont Emerald, anello con smeraldo colombiano di 9,11 carati
The duPont Emerald, ring with a 9.11-carat Colombian emerald

Clarity
Usually the stones, some in particular such as emerald, are not as clear as a glass crystal. Clarity measures the degree of internal or surface transparency. Inside the stones there may be inclusions, that is, small imperfections, traces of other minerals that can determine their value. Usually, the fewer inclusions there are, the more the gem has value. But, be careful: if they offer you an absolutely clear emerald, look at it with suspicion. It could be synthetic. In contrast, amethysts are generally free of inclusions. Other stones, on the other hand, are appreciated precisely for their inclusions: for example, the cat’s eye. Or the star sapphire, which has that particular reflection precisely because it has a rather rare inclusion.

Zaffiri e rubino
Blue, pink, yellow and ruby sapphires

Carats (weight)
Size matters. Of course, the color is important, but if the gem is tiny … The weight of the colored stones is indicated in carats. Yes, but what is it equivalent to? Quickly said: a carat is about a fifth of an gram. A gem with higher carats will generally cost more than another smaller, if the quality is equivalent. But the proportion is very different: amethysts are also found in relevant sizes, even over 100 carats and, therefore, the difference between different sizes and weight is relative. Large rubies, on the other hand, are very rare: in proportion, their value with respect to weight will increase more than that of amethyst.

Anello in oro bianco con acquamarina taglio ovale e diamanti
Paolo Costagli, white gold ring with an oval cut aquamarine and diamonds

Cutting
It is not easy for anyone who is not a gemologist to judge whether the cutting of a stone is correct. But you have to know that in evaluating a gem it also matters how it was cut. The light, in fact, will be better reflected and will make a well cut stone brighter. Proportions, symmetry and polishing are the main aspects. On the price of a gem, however, its shape has less influence, if it is one of the classic cuts used, such as brilliant, emerald, shuttles, etc. A good cut can enhance the nuances of a colored gem. An imperfect cut can, on the contrary, depress its beauty. And do not think that the cut is a simple operation performed automatically: each stone is different from the other and a cut that is good for one may not be suitable for a similar one, but not the same.

Anello con rubino birmano a forma di cuscino, di Harry Winston.
Burmese Ruby Cushion Ring by Harry Winston

The country of origin
Last thing to consider: the stone passport matters. There are mines that have a better reputation and average quality than others. And, therefore, in evaluating the stones it is also important to know what the origin is. Burmese rubies are more valuable. The emeralds of Colombia are the most requested, followed by those of Zambia. The now unavailable blue sapphires of Kashmir are the most sought after.

Bracciale con ametista, rubini birmani e diamanti su argento e oro
Bracelet with amethyst, Burmese rubies and diamonds on silver and gold
Citrino con taglio StarBrite da 29,96 carati di John Dyer & Co
29.96 Carat StarBrite Cut Citrine by John Dyer & Co
Anello della collezione Aristocrat, in oro bianco e diamanti, alessandrite taglio brillante
Ring from the Aristocrat collection, in white gold and diamonds, brilliant cut alexandrite
Orecchini in oro bianco, topazio e diamanti
Tamara Comolli, earrings in white gold, topaz and diamonds
Anello con zaffiro star di Ceylon su ceramica orange e grigia
Ring with Ceylon star sapphire on orange and gray ceramic
Anello con zaffiro del Kashmir e diamanti
Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring

How to choose single diamonds earrings

A classic of all time: solitaire diamond earrings, also called single diamonds earrings.

Simple and elegant, they are a jewel that should always be present in your jewelbox. Here’s how to choose diamond earrings. Diamond stud earrings are every woman’s dream, with the glimmer that lights up any face. A fashion started with queens and ladies of the 16th century, which continues on the Red Carpet with Angelina Jolie, Natalie Portman, Scarlett Johansson and Eva Longoria. But, in addition to embellish, diamond studs earrings have another virtue: they can be worn for day to day the day without feeling awkward: although do not go unnoticed these earrings can be discreet. Here some tips for buying best, including a review of the 4 C appropriate to the jewel.

Orecchini di diamante solitario, in oro bianco con chiusura a vite
Solitaire diamond earrings, in white gold with screw closure

Fit

Diamond must sit flat on the lobe and not slant, even slightly, from the ear, otherwise the stone looks down and can’t catch the light. It’s a risk you take with gems over two carats if the earrings are not well designed. Of course, it also depends on the dimension of the ear, but it is crucial that diamond is set in such a way to have the center of gravity back the lobe, in order to have a balanced look.

Orecchini punto luce indossati
Small diamonds earrings worn

Clasp

Butterfly clasps, perfect for smaller earrings, have a drawback: the use is likely to come loose, with the risk of losing the beloved jewel. Safer is the screw back, but also less confortable to put on and remove. There is a third type of back, convex and circular with a special cavities, which blocks the clasp until is pressed to the sides and is therefore the most reliable.

Damiani, orecchino taglio rotondo con chiusura bombata
Damiani, round cut earring with convex closure

Certification

Better to opt for certified stones if it’s diamonds. Basically you buy essentially the gem, the work of the setting is minimal.

The 4 C

Carat It’s important because determines the size and appearance of the earrings. But beware to the differences of the various dimensions to the naked eye: a 2-carat diamond does not seem to be twice the size of a one carat diamond. Not only that, a 0.50-carat stone may appear larger if surrounded by a border of micro-setting diamonds that gives more shine to the ensamble.

Orecchini a bottone Celine, con diamanti
Celine stud earrings, with diamonds

Cut It depends on taste and budget, but round cut is the most popular because with its 57-58 facets reflects more the light, which seems to radiate from the center to the its board and makes the stone more brilliant. Afterwards, as popularity for this kind of jewels, princess and heart cuts. But they required more waste material to obtain the same brightness of the round cut and, therefore, cost more because for equal finished product using larger stones.

Color and clarity Diamonds without inclusions or blemishes are rare and expensive. In the case of diamond studs earrings, it is preferable to give priority to the cut and then the color and then the clarity. Better opt for stones whiter, brighter and then, even if with some internal defect to have the maximum relative value.

Orecchini di diamanti solitario, taglio a cuore
Solitaire diamond earrings, heart cut

Cleaning

Diamonds are a magnet for dust, especially earrings so close to the face and hair, thus more easily in contact with creams and gels. Precisely for this reason must be cleaned at least once a week. Just a little of warm water, mild liquid detergent and a soft brush to make them shine again.

Poche gocce di sapone liquido sono sufficienti
A few drops of liquid soap are enough
Collezione Illusion, orecchini in oro nero 18 carati e diamanti
As29, Illusion collection, earrings in 18k black gold and diamonds
Orecchini con diamanti ognuno del peso di 20,27 carati
Earrings with diamonds each weighing 20.27 carats
Orecchini con diamanti sviluppati in laboratorio Lightbox
Earrings with synthetic diamonds developed in the Lightbox laboratory

The jewelry in 10 steps




The 10 fundamental steps in the history of jewelry that you need to know. The first is… ♦ ︎
Long ago the Financial Times published an article which identified the 10 milestones of jewelery over the past two hundred years or so. The article starts from innovation in diamond cutting, with the introduction of fashion to bright, up to 3D printing. It is interesting the analysis, to don’t forget the history of the jewel.
1 Brilliant Cut
Round or brilliant cut diamonds were introduced at the end of the 17th century, after the brilliance of the stones had become predominant in Baroque jewelry. The brilliant cut developed in the laboratories of Paris, Amsterdam and Antwerp, which produced the precursor of the contemporary cut, which today is the one chosen for 75 percent of the diamonds.

Il diamante da 102 carati taglio brillante
102 carat brilliant cut diamond

2 Electroplating
How do you make gold if you have not? Nothing philosopher’s stone: since 1840 gold and silver are applied using an electrolytic process, which has become a pillar of the production of affordable jewelry. It was the goal of a Birmingham surgeon, John Wright, who developed galvanic baths with potassium cyanide. Wright and his partners George and Henry Elkington, patented electroplating process, allowing you to apply a thin film of gold or silver on a regular jewel of other material , such as steel.

Bracciale in galvanica oro rosa di Swarovski
Rose gold galvanic bracelet by Swarovski

3 Tiffany setting
In 1886 Tiffany invented the most popular ring among women: it elevates the diamond above the ring rim by four or six prongs, instead of being set in the metal. In this way the diamond is seen much more. Since then, the solitaire ring remains alone for a very short time: everyone wants it. Before Tiffany, diamond ring settings were much lower on the finger—the stones were usually set in a gold band or held with shorter prongs, so the stones had a low profile. The Tiffany setting enhances the diamond.

Anello solitario in platino e diamante con il Tiffany Setting
Platinum and diamond solitaire ring with the Tiffany Setting

4 Platinum
At the end of the 19th century, the use of platinum spread, a metal that is more difficult to work with, but much more resistant than gold. Thanks to the new platinum treatment techniques, Cartier can create a refined jewel like the tiara with a garland design. Platinum has a remarkable resistance to corrosion, and does not deform even at high temperatures: it is considered a noble metal which ensures a long life to the jewel.

Orecchini in platino e diamanti
Earrings in platinum and diamonds

5 Cultured pearls
Until the early twentieth century pearls were very rare, because only those produced naturally by oysters could be found. From the Akoya variety, Kokichi Mikimoto has instead managed to obtain man-induced pearls. But it is also thanks to his wife. On July 11, 1893, Mikimoto’s wife examined a basket of freshly caught oysters and saw the first hemispherical cultured pearl as beautiful as a natural pearl. Three years later, in 1896, Mikimoto obtained his first patent for cultured pearls.

Bracciale con tre fili di perle coltivate
Bracelet with three strands of cultured pearls

6 Clip Earrings
In the thirties have spread earrings held by a small spring, as the use of the reaction in the ear hole, considered barbarous (it seems that it is no longer the case now). Clip-on earrings can be worn by everyone, while pierced earrings are reserved for those with pierced ears. In the 1970s, however, pierced ears came back into fashion, and not only that.

Verdura, orecchini clip con la forma di grappolo d'uva, con oro, perle, platino e diamanti
Verdura, clip-on earrings in the shape of a bunch of grapes, with gold, pearls, platinum and diamonds

7 Serti Mystérieux
It is an innovation of Van Cleef & Arpels: it use the technique to placed stones on the jewel without showing claws or other devices to immobilize the individual elements. Thin and invisible rails lead the stone into the desired position. Needless to add that it is not a simple task, though it has since been imitated by many other Maison.

Clip Panache MystОrieux. Serti MystОrieux Vitrail zaffiri colorati, diamanti
Van Cleef & Arpels, Panache MystОrieux clip. Serti MystОrieux Vitrail colored sapphires, diamonds

8 Titanium
In the early sixties he comes in titanium. Even in this case is the technology that has allowed the most innovative jewelers like Jar of work this lightweight and durable metal, which allows you to make jewelry with bold shapes, impossible with more traditional alloys such as those with gold and silver.

Bracciale Calla in titanio e diamanti
Calla bracelet by Vhernier in titanium and diamonds

9 3D Design
For the uninitiated, despite the films of the major brands continue to show artists with pen and colors and draw their own collections, the vast majority of jewelry is designed to the computer. This is due to the introduction, in the eighties, of 3D design, with a software called Cad. It’s a less poetic system of colored pencils, but much more efficient.

Progettazione in 3D dei gioielli
3D jewelry design

10 3D Print
For some years the border is 3D printing. Most initially it was made of plastic, but now you can also use the metal. After designing the jewelry, the path leads to the realization through special printers that instead of churning out the vacation photos, build by subtraction (ie carve the excess material), or by aggregation (adding gold dust or silver, kneaded) for rings, necklaces or bracelets.

Gioielli di platino realizzati con la stampante 3D
Platinum jewelry made with the 3D printer

 

The largest artificial diamond is from India

The technology applied to the diamond industry has produced the largest artificially created gem. This was announced by the Gemological Institute of America, which has cataloged a laboratory-grown diamond of record weight. The gem was produced in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process by Ethereal Green Diamond, a company based in Mumbai, India. The man-made diamond presented at the GIA laboratory in Hong Kong weighs 34.59 carats and has an emerald cut. It is the largest lab-grown diamond GIA has ever examined, according to Wuyi Wang, GIA’s vice president of research and development. Alongside the interest in the unusual dimensions of the stone, however, the quality must also be considered.

Un impianto di produzione di diamanti sintetici
A synthetic diamond production plant

The diamond has been graded G color (the best class is D) and VS2 clarity. In the gem there are small inclusions of black graphite inside and others that testify to the growth layers of the diamond. This type of diamond, in fact, is created with an accumulation of special steam inside special machines. Fluorescence examination revealed growth streaks typically seen in diamonds created with the CVD technique. Not only that: there is also a faintly oily or wavy grain in the facet of the surface, a characteristic that occurs in diamonds of this type. So far, the record for lab grown diamonds was held by the 16.41 carat princess cut diamond created by Shanghai Zhengshi Technology and examined in GIA’s Carlsbad laboratory in 2022.

La nuova miniera: l'impianto di produzione in Oregon di diamanti artificiali
Lightbox (De Beers) Man-Made Diamond Oregon Manufacturing Facility

Pay attention to the symmetry of diamonds

Beware about symmetry: the cut of a diamond can enhance or make a less brilliant ring. Here’s how to find out.

While you’re ready to invest part of your savings in a diamond ring, think through how to choose the jewel. Of course, a diamond is forever: for this reason it is worth to make a careful choice. You already know what are the four C. You have already read our guide How to choose the diamond ring and How to choose a diamond. But there is still one thing to know: you must pay attention to symmetry. Yes: a diamond can also be «a bit faulty». In this case it will shine less and have less value in the future.

Il diamante ovale da 88 carati messo all'asta
88 carat oval diamond auctioned by Sotheby’s

What does symmetry?
The symmetry refers to the precision, the shape and arrangement of the diamond facets. The brilliant-cut, for example, has 58 (or 57 if it has not the one on the bottom tip, the culet) that must be perfectly symmetrical: is not simple. We must say that identifying the symmetry is not easy: the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has put 15 years and has studied 38 million diamonds before deciding how to judge the symmetry of a diamond, in particular the round, brilliant-cut. At the end of so much effort it has established the parameters and classification. The symmetry can be Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor.

A sinistra, un diamante con una simmetria classificata come Ottima. A destra, una pietra classificata con simmetria Povera
On the left, a diamond with a symmetry classified as Excellent. On the right, a stone classified with Poor symmetry

Why it is important?

Think about it for a moment: a diamond must be as transparent as possible to let the light filter inside. Then, it must reflect light through its facets. If these aren’t perfectly symmetrical, the sparkle of the light won’t be perfect either. More: the diamond could sparkle very little because the stone is unable to let the light out from inside. Defects of this type, caused by lack of symmetry, are called deviations. Does it happen often? Fortunately no. Once upon a time those who cut stones did everything by hand, in poorly lit environments. Now technology helps not to make mistakes, or almost.

Anello con diamante ovale di 51,60 carati
Ring with oval diamond of 51.60 carats

Here are the degrees of symmetry of the diamond

Excellent. Diamonds with excellent symmetry. They have no deviations and have no incorrect or missing facets.

Very good. Diamonds with symmetry that has a couple of unimportant deviations, such as minimal misalignment or an imperfect facet.

Good. Diamonds with good symmetry, but also some deviations which can affect the brilliance. For example, due to the angle of the pavilion or a missing facet.

Discrete. Diamonds that exhibit various deviations and, consequently, a reduced brilliance. Deviations impair perfect light reflection.

Rare. Poor symmetry and several obvious deviations can make the diamond nearly dull. The causes can be different, such as a non-perfectly centered surface, missing or non-identical facets.

Williamson Pink Star, 11-carat pink diamond
Williamson Pink Star, 11-carat pink diamond

What should you watch?
The images you see are eloquent: the differences in the cut may be minimal, or jump to the eye. The best thing to do is compare different diamonds with the same cut, and in the same light: choose the one that seems to shine better, that you like the most: most likely you will not find a not symmetrical diamond.

On the left, a diamond with Excellent symmetry. Right, good symmetry. The difference is barely visible
On the left, a diamond with Excellent symmetry. Right, good symmetry. The difference is barely visible

At the altar with ititoli




Wedding rings, engagement rings, white gold rings and diamonds are the specialty of brand ititoli ♦

It is the era of specialization, even for jewelry: following this reasoning, the brand ititoli has decided to engage in one form of jewelry, the solitaire. That is, in rings with diamond that, by convention, are donated in most cases for an engagement or for special occasions. Gold (or platinum) and diamond: a simple formula, however, has also been widely used. In short, to be seen must be good.

Anello in oro bianco e pavé di diamanti
Anello in oro bianco e pavé di diamanti

The idea dates back to 1990, when in Valenza, area of ​​Piedmont where bloom dozens of jewelry companies, Aldo and John Ramerini have founded the Maison: ititoli, however, is only the name of the initiative, while their experience in the world of jewelry is much longer. The specialization in engagement rings and wedding also allowed to add innovative features, such as Diamond Xl, a set type which give 70% more light thanks to a special design. Diamond after diamond, to collections were later joined pendants, bracelet and earrings, but all with the classic diamond in the center.

Bracciale di diamanti della collezione XL
Bracciale di diamanti della collezione XL
Anello solitario in oro bianco e diamante
Anello solitario in oro bianco e diamante
Anello in oro bianco e diamante
Anello in oro bianco e diamante
Orecchini in oro bianco e diamanti
Orecchini in oro bianco e diamanti
Pendente della collezione XL
Pendente della collezione XL







Korloff from black to pink




The Luna collection by the Parisian brand Korloff: gold, diamonds and many rounded geometries ♦

Hold a record is a good starting point, even for the jewels: the Parisian brand Korloff can boast of a record not little, that of the largest black diamond in the world, the 88 carat weight, cut with 57 perfect edges. It is insured for $ 37 million. The Korloff Black is the soul and symbol of society and it is showed around the world for decades.

Il diamante nero di 88 carati Karloff
Il diamante nero di 88 carati Karloff

But of course, the Maison also offers a lot of other jewels.

Anyway, it all started in 1978, when Daniel Paillasseur conceived the brand Korloff Paris, inspired in part by the journey of Korloff family Sapojnikov from Russia to France. In the nineteenth century this precious stone belonged for several generations to the Russian family of Karloff-Sapozhnikov. And according to legend, the Karloff Noir brings good luck and prosperity to those who touch it. Apart from the black diamond that has given him fame, the Parisian brand produces high-level jewelry, as well as watches and other luxury products, such as perfumes. Korloff has 50 boutiques around the world.

Anello Korlove in oro rosa  e diamanti neri
Anello Korlove in oro rosa e diamanti neri
Anello in oro bianco e diamanti della collezione Eclat, ispirata alla piramide dl Louve
Anello in oro bianco e diamanti della collezione Eclat, ispirata alla piramide dl Louve
Orecchini della collezione Eclat in oro rosa e diamanti
Orecchini della collezione Eclat in oro rosa e diamanti

orecchini soleil
Orecchini Soleil in oro giallo e diamanti

Collezione di alta gioielleria Divine Nature, anello con diamanti
Collezione di alta gioielleria Divine Nature, anello con diamanti

Orecchini in oro rosa con 192 diamanti, per 2,50 carati
Orecchini in oro rosa con 192 diamanti, per 2,50 carati







Ten useful tips before buying a jewel





How to choose a jewel to give or buy for you? Here are ten useful tips for those looking for a diamond or gemstone ring ♦ ︎

When buying a diamond, or rubies, emeralds, sapphires, the advice of an expert is essential. But, in any case, it is better to know more about the characteristics of the stones. If the famous 4 Cs of diamonds carat (carat), color (color), clarity (clarity) and cut (cut), are now known to everyone (and if you don’t know them you can find the explanation in our section To know), here some things to know before entering the jewelry store.

Lo store di Tiffany in piazza Duomo, a Milano
Lo store di Tiffany in piazza Duomo, a Milano

They are not just any advices: they are those elaborated by the Gemological Institute of America (Gia), that is the United States mineralogy research and learning center, the most famous in the world, which also helped create the diamond valuation standard. Its certification is a guarantee in evaluations and transactions. Hence, it is best to follow his advice.
La cassaforte per gioielli Baron
La cassaforte per gioielli Baron

1 Also think about where to store them. Buying a piece of jewelry is easy if you have the necessary money. But a non-trivial and often underestimated aspect concerns your home. Do you have a place, possibly safe, to keep the jewels? If your jewelry investment is high, think about where and how to store your jewelry first. In addition to safety, another important aspect concerns the integrity of the jewelry. Your precious rings, necklaces and bracelets, in fact, can be damaged if they are placed in contact with each other: it is better to always keep them in the box in which they were sold by the jeweler. For example, in addition to diamonds, sapphires are also very hard stones and can scratch other stones they come into contact with. In short, the jewels are best kept separate.
Lo zaffiro birmano Royal Blue non riscaldato di 118,88 carati e l'anello con rubino birmano di 6,41 carati
Lo zaffiro birmano Royal Blue non riscaldato di 118,88 carati e l’anello con rubino birmano di 6,41 carati

2 Green is in fashion. The green color has an advantage, in addition to being the symbol of nature and the environment: emeralds, which have this color, are larger for the same weight. So, if you want to make a good impression, go for emeralds for the same price. Since this mineral has a low density, in fact, a 1 carat emerald will be larger than a diamond of the same weight. In short, the emerald is more voluminous for the same weight.
Anello con smeraldo ottagonale di 8,32 carati
Anello con smeraldo ottagonale di 8,32 carati

3 Size matters. There is nothing worse, if you want to give a ring as a gift, than buying one of the wrong size. The joy of receiving a precious gift turns into disappointment for not being able to wear the jewel. Sure, a ring can be widened or tightened (but not always), but the surprise effect is ruined. So, pay attention to the size of the ring: it is very important that it can be worn easily, without causing discomfort. The ring should slide smoothly down the bottom of the finger, but it shouldn’t be too loose. He must not turn around or slip out of his position. How to know exactly the right ring size? We wrote about it here.
Giovanni Ferraris, anelli Vanity
Giovanni Ferraris, anelli Vanity con perle

4 Decide on a budget. Before buying a ring, it is good to know the maximum price you want to spend. It is an important aspect, because once you enter the jewelry it is better not to have indecision or, worse, to repent immediately after the purchase just made. When you enter the jewelry store, therefore, it is best to immediately explain how much you are willing to spend: this will help the jeweler find the right jewel for your budget.
Madalina Ghenea con una collier della colelzione Vulcania, alta gioielleria Damiani
Madalina Ghenea con una collier della collezione Vulcania, alta gioielleria Damiani

5 The purple color. Do you like strong colors? A ring with a rather large ruby ​​costs a lot. Of course, alternatively you can choose a jewel with spinel, which often has a lower price, but it is always a high cost. An alternative is amethyst, which is purple but is always a rather warm shade. And it costs less. But not all amethysts are the same: the most popular shade of amethyst is the one that tends to purple red, or an intense purple, without brown or bronze shades. The color of the amethyst must be uniform, visible to the naked eye when looking at the stone from above. Otherwise the amethyst may appear too dark in low light conditions.
Anelli a incastro in oro bianco e diamanti (1 carato)
Anelli a incastro in oro bianco e diamanti (1 carato)

6 Diamonds with discount. Diamonds cost a lot, especially if their weight exceeds 1 carat. If you have a lot of money to spend, and don’t think of the ring as a jewel to resell, you can opt for a 0.99 carat diamond or a similar weight: the appearance will be practically identical to that of a 1 carat stone, but the cost will be much lower. In short, a diamond with a discount, because the psychological threshold of 1 carat raises the price a lot. An alternative is to choose a Halo type ring, that is, with many smaller diamonds mounted around a central stone: this crown of small stones serves to increase the brilliance of the central one and helps to keep the price down.
Un esempio di certificato, quello dell'IGI, Istituto Gemmologico Italiano
Un esempio di certificato, quello dell’IGI, Istituto Gemmologico Italiano

7 Ask for the certificate. If you buy a diamond jewel do not forget to ask for the certificate of authenticity of the stones. Unfortunately, anyone who is not an expert and does not turn to a good jeweler risks falling into some trap. For example, a diamond created in the laboratory can be mounted on the ring instead of a diamond, very similar to the natural one, but which costs less. Synthetic stones are many and difficult to distinguish for those who are not experts. Jewelery with an unnatural stone should not be sold in a non-transparent way. And this usually doesn’t happen if the dealer is well known: a fake stone would ruin his reputation. In any case, a certificate of guarantee will indicate the characteristics of the diamond, ie weight and quality.
Analisi di un diamante
Analisi di un diamante

8 Look inside the gems. Diamonds aren’t the only stones imitated by lab-created gems. But how to distinguish them from natural ones? A fairly simple way is to look at them very closely, through a magnifying glass, perhaps the ones that come close to the eye used by jewelers (they can be bought online at a modest price). Natural stones almost always show some inclusions inside them. They are small imperfections which, however, are also a guarantee of their origin. For example, pink or red tourmaline often has multiple inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. A true emerald always has small cracks or inclusions. In short, an imperfect stone has also certainly been extracted from the earth.
Bracciale con rubini burmesi e diamanti
Bracciale con rubini burmesi e diamanti

9 Ask for your passport. If you buy a jewel with a precious stone, find out where it comes from: the place where the gem was extracted also affects the price. For example, a ruby ​​mined in Burma is more valuable than the same type of stone, but which comes from Ceylon. Or, an emerald from Colombia is more expensive than one mined in Mozambique. Of course, the evaluation also depends on the weight and quality of the gem. In any case, the origin has a certain importance in the evaluation, just as it happens for the products that are purchased every day: for the same quality, one brand can have a higher price than another. Marketing magic.
Anelli con pavé di diamanti bianchi, brown e neri
Anelli con pavé di diamanti bianchi, brown e neri

10 Different diamonds. As we said in point 7, if you want to buy a diamond ring, the request for a certificate certifying the origin of the stone is necessary. But, in addition to authenticity, the gemological certificate also guarantees the quality of the diamond. In short, it is a question of understanding the classification according to the four C. For example, colorless diamonds are not always perfectly transparent. There are white diamonds that can have a milky transparency. Or inclusions. Or, more often, have a slightly yellowish color. These diamonds can be used for beautiful jewelry. But their price must also be different.
Shopping in Place Vendôme, Parigi
Shopping in Place Vendôme, Parigi







The pink super diamond stolen in Qatar by a psychic




We have written it many times: be wary of those who say that stones have special powers, magical effects, healthy influences. You may be dealing with not only a cheater, but also a thief. The incredible story of the stolen pink diamond proves it. Unveiled in November by Christie’s as a Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond set in a ring, with impressive VVS1 clarity, weighing 13.15 carats, and an estimate of up to $35 million, it was scheduled to be auctioned December 6 at New York. Instead, he disappeared from the radar. The major auction house did not consider explaining why. But there is a reconstruction that seems incredible.

According to some documents filed in court and discovered for the first time by the Court Watch organization, specialized in the analysis of judicial documents, the diamond was allegedly stolen in Doha, Qatar. The diamond would have been bought by a sheik, rich but somewhat naive. In fact, he lent the diamond to a man who introduced himself as John Lee, who billed himself as an online psychic. An employee of the sheikh then sent to mr. Lee some jewels, including the pink diamond, to “cleanse them of evil spirits.” But the real magic was making the jewels disappear. Don’t laugh, please.

Doha, capitale del Qatar
Doha, capitale del Qatar

Un momento dell'asta di Christie's
Asta da Christie’s

Il diamante rosa rubato in Qatar
Il diamante rosa rubato in Qatar







The blue diamond illuminates Christie’s




Nearly $60 million in jewelry. This is what Christie’s auction of Magnificent Jewels in New York totaled. To be precise, total sales are $58.8 million, with 93% sold per lot and 105% sold above the low estimate. The top lot was a 31.62-carat fancy blue diamond, the largest ever to appear at auction, which sold for $11.8 million. In short, diamonds as an investment are always interesting. Other pieces that earned a six-figure rating include an 86.64-carat diamond pendant necklace that sold for $5.7 million and a 107.46-carat large fancy yellow diamond brooch by Graff that sold for 2.6 million, while an important diamond ring of 51.60 carats was purchased for 2.5 million by the prince of dealers William Goldberg.

Diamante taglio smeraldo Fancy Vivid Yellow, Internally Flawless di 13,75 carati di de Beers
Diamante taglio smeraldo Fancy Vivid Yellow, Internally Flawless di 13,75 carati di de Beers

Other results highlighted by Christie’s: an Art Deco sapphire and diamond pendant sold for 1.4 million, almost ten times its lowest estimate, a pair of heart-shaped colored diamond earrings fetched 1.4 million, more than five times their lowest estimate. Also successfully sold were a Bouquet brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels, which belonged to Evita Perón, sold for $195,300, and a Flower Brooch by the same Parisian ruby and emerald Maison, which fetched 1.2 million.

Anello con diamante ovale di 51,60 carati
Anello con diamante ovale di 51,60 carati
Collana di diamanti con un eccezionale diamante taglio pera di colore D da 86,64 carati
Collana di diamanti con un eccezionale diamante taglio pera di colore D da 86,64 carati

Spilla Bouquet con zaffiro retrò, zaffiro colorato e rubino appartenuta a Evita Peron
Spilla Bouquet di Van Cleef & Arpels con zaffiro retrò, zaffiro colorato e rubino appartenuta a Evita Peron

Ciondolo con diamante blu di 31,62 carati
Ciondolo con diamante blu di 31,62 carati







Faraone Casa d’Aste: diamonds and a Cartier bracelet on top




A single diamond not mounted on a ring was the top lot of the sale organized by Faraone Casa d’Aste in Milan. Jewellery, together with watches and luxury goods, totaled a total of 1.2 million euros, approximately 105% of the estimated value. A positive balance, therefore, which added to that of the auction held in May, marks +35% compared to the result of the two auctions in 2021. The protagonist was a 3.41-carat diamond, estimated at 30,000 euros and awarded for 50,000. A pair of brooches with sapphires and diamonds also stands out, sold for 13,000 euros, but with an estimate of 5,000. A solitaire ring in white gold, with a 3.12-carat round brilliant-cut diamond was auctioned for 26,000 against the 18,000 estimate, and a brooch in 9-carat rose gold, but with an octagonal emerald of 12.20 carats, arrived at 12,000 euros against the starting 1,500.

Diamante taglio brillante di 3,41 carati
Diamante taglio brillante di 3,41 carati

Also sold well were a platinum ring with a minor oil Colombian emerald weighing 3.60 carats, surrounded by diamonds (24,000), and a double-strand choker with natural saltwater pearls (27,000), a rigid yellow gold bracelet and white and diamonds (20,000) and a platinum ring signed Sabbadini with a cushion diamond of 8.45 carats, is sold for a value of 78,000 against the 50,000.00 estimate. Finally, a Cartier Chimere Open Bangle in yellow gold that started at 8,000 euros reached 77,000.
Coppia di spille in platino e oro bianco 18 carati con diamanti navette, baguette e tapered per circa 6,80 carati. Al centro zaffiri carrè invisible set per  circa 5,20
Coppia di spille in platino e oro bianco 18 carati con diamanti navette, baguette e tapered per circa 6,80 carati. Al centro zaffiri carrè invisible set per circa 5,20

Open Bangle Chimere di Cartier in oro giallo
Open Bangle Chimere di Cartier in oro giallo
Spilla in oro rosa 9 carati con smeraldo ottagonale di 12,20 carati
Spilla in oro rosa 9 carati con smeraldo ottagonale di 12,20 carati
Anello in platino con smeraldo colombiano minor oil di 3,60 carati
Anello in platino con smeraldo colombiano minor oil di 3,60 carati
Anello con diamanti di 3,12 carati
Anello con diamanti di 3,12 carati

Bracciale rigido in oro giallo e bianco e diamanti
Bracciale rigido in oro giallo e bianco e diamanti







How hard are jewelry stones?




How resistant are the stones of your jewels? Can they be damaged easily?

The hardness of gems is measured by the Mohs scale. The name derives from the German scientist Friedrich Mohs, who conceived it in 1812. The Mohs scale assigns a grade from one to ten to the degree of hardness of the stones. In this way, you can know which ones are more delicate, for example, which scratch or break more often. It is an aspect that is best known to avoid nasty surprises: knowing how hard the stones of your jewels are is also useful for cleaning. For example, an opal is not as strong as a ruby ​​and should be treated with greater delicacy.

Gemme di Filippo G&G
Gemme di Filippo G&G

In short, generally when someone buys a piece of jewelry they don’t ask you if it will be tough enough to withstand occasional bumps. Yet it is a question that is best to ask yourself, especially if the stone is mounted on a ring, a jewel that is more easily subject to contact with other materials. But the same goes for earrings or necklace if these jewels have stones.
Diamante taglio cuscino di Jack Reiss. Il diamante è l'elemento più duro in natura
Diamante taglio cuscino di Jack Reiss. Il diamante è l’elemento più duro in natura

Although we tend to believe that a stone is incredibly more solid than any common object of everyday life, this is not the case. The gems of your jewelry could be fragile stones, at risk of being scratched or even shattered in some unfortunate circumstance. Even the diamond is absolutely not safe from all danger. Fortunately, Mohs took the trouble, almost two centuries ago, to measure the hardness of different minerals, including precious stones. It is therefore possible to know the degree of hardness of the stones with some certainty.
PietraDurezza
Diamante10
Rubino9
Zaffiro9
Alessandrite8.5
Crisoberillo8.5
Topazio8
Spinello8
Smeraldo7,5-8
Andalusite7.5
Hambergite7.5
Acquamarina7,5-8
Goshenite7,5-8
Berillo7,5-8
Morganite7,5-8
Granato demantoide7-7,5
Ametista7
Tormalina7-7,5
Quarzo7
Kunzite7
Citrino7
Danburite7-7,5
Iolite7-7,5
Rubellite7-7,5
Tanzanite6,5-7
Peridoto6,5-7
Granato6,5 - 7,5
Diaspro6,5-7
Axinite6,5-7
Crisoprasio6,5-7
Corallo fossile6,5-7
Agata6,5-7
Spessartite6,5 - 7,5
Occhio di tigre6,5-7
Zircone6,5 - 7,5
Diasporo6,5-7
Eliotropio6,5-7
Tsavorite6,5 - 7,5
Onice6,5-7
Corniola6,5-7
Calcedonio6,5-7
Rhodolite6,5 - 7,5
Sillimanite6,5 - 7,5
Labradorite6 - 6.5
Pietra Luna6 - 6.5
Giadeite, giada nefrite6 - 6.5
Amazzonite6 - 6.5
Opale5.5 - 6.5
Ematite5.5 - 6.5
Lapislazzuli05-giu
Turchese05-giu
Ossidiana5-5,5
Malachite3,5-4
Corallo03-apr
Perla2,5-4,5
ChrysocollaDi 2 - 4
Ambra2-2,5

The Mohs scale was initially based on ten readily available minerals. This ranking was subsequently completed and is now an important indicator for those who buy a stone. But be careful: it is a special scale. For example, a corundum (such as ruby) is twice as hard as a topaz, but a diamond is nearly four times harder than a corundum. What you see on this page is a table that summarizes the hardness of the main stones. At the head is the diamond. Immediately after there are rubies and sapphires. Then … Federico Graglia
Acquamarina e tormalina rosa di Nomads
Acquamarina e tormalina rosa di Nomads

Set di spinelli di diverse sfumature di Paul Wild
Set con spinelli di diverse sfumature di Paul Wild







Blue diamonds and Evita’s jewels at Christie’s




It’s not just the 13.15-carat pink diamond estimated at up to $35 million at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction at Rockefeller Center on Dec. 6. Together with the ring with the diamond, the auction house will offer jewels signed by Bulgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels and other Maisons. In addition to the aforementioned pink diamond, the largest fancy blue diamond ever to appear at auction, weighing 31.62 carats, set in a pendant surrounded by diamonds, will also be on sale. The diamond is estimated at between 10 and 15 million dollars. Another top jewel is the diamond necklace with an exceptional 86.64 carat (estimated 5-7 million) D-color pear-cut diamond as a pendant. The 1948 Cartier-mounted diamond Palm-Tree brooch (estimate 500,000-700,000) also stands out. The brooch was part of Margaret Thompson Biddle’s collection and features a 13.30-carat circular brilliant-cut diamond.

Ciondolo con diamante blu di 31,62 carati
Ciondolo con diamante blu di 31,62 carati

Also among the magnificent jewels are a 2.21 carat (1,200,000-1,800,000) fancy deep blue brilliant cut oval colored diamond ring, a Diamond Torque bangle, set with an internally flawless heart-shaped diamond D color of 50.05 carats (3,700,000-4,500,000), and The De Beers Yellow, an exceptional Fancy Vivid Yellow, Internally Flawless emerald-cut diamond of 13.75 carats (1,100,000–1,800,000).

Collana di diamanti con un eccezionale diamante taglio pera di colore D da 86,64 carati
Collana di diamanti con un eccezionale diamante taglio pera di colore D da 86,64 carati

Alongside these six-figure pieces, the auction includes a selection of iconic jewels by Van Cleef and Arpels. An exceptional lot is the Bouquet brooch with retro sapphire, colored sapphire and ruby ​​which was part of the collection of Argentine first lady Evita Perón (60,000-80,000). The use of materials and the overall scale of the brooch is an homage to the retro period. Since it was purchased at an auction from Evita’s personal collection in 1957, it has remained in private hands and has never been worn. Additional Van Cleef & Arpels highlights include the Hawaii Jewelery Suite with Rubies, Sapphires and Diamonds (100,000-150,000) and two examples of the house’s iconic setting technique, the Mystery-Set Flower Brooch with Rubies and Emeralds (400,000 -600,000) and Mystery-Set flower earrings with rubies and diamonds (120,000-180,000). Finally, noteworthy is the Panthère de Cartier bracelet with aquamarine, diamonds and multiple gems, set with a 71.45-carat (200,000-400,000 carat) cabochon aquamarine.
The sale will be on view in New York from December 2-5.
Bracciale Panthère di Cartier con con acquamarina cabochon da 71,45 carati
Bracciale Panthère di Cartier con con acquamarina cabochon da 71,45 carati

Spilla di diamanti Palm-Tree montata da Cartier del 1948
Spilla di diamanti Palm-Tree montata da Cartier del 1948
Diamante taglio smeraldo Fancy Vivid Yellow, Internally Flawless di 13,75 carati di de Beers
Diamante taglio smeraldo Fancy Vivid Yellow, Internally Flawless di 13,75 carati di de Beers

Bracciale rigido Diamond Torque, incastonato con un diamante a forma di cuore internamente impeccabile di colore D di 50,05 carati
Bracciale rigido Diamond Torque, incastonato con un diamante a forma di cuore internamente impeccabile di colore D di 50,05 carati

Spilla Bouquet con zaffiro retrò, zaffiro colorato e rubino appartenuta a Evita Peron
Spilla Bouquet di Van Cleef & Arpels con zaffiro retrò, zaffiro colorato e rubino appartenuta a Evita Peron







A new record pink is coming from Christie’s





Year 2022 is the year of pink. Christie’s, in fact, is offering a new pink diamond at auction which, according to estimates, could be sold for up to 35 million dollars, with a minimum estimate of 25 million. The diamond is considered one of the finest fancy vivid pink emerald-cut diamonds ever offered at auction and will be part of the Magnificent Jewels sale December 6 at Rockefeller Center in New York during Luxury Week.

Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond di 13,15 carati
Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond di 13,15 carati

The Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond is prong set in a ring and has impressive VVS1 clarity, weighing 13.15 carats. A pink diamond of this size and quality is rare. In the fancy vivid pink range, a diamond over 6 carats is rarely encountered and less than 10% of pink diamonds weigh more than a fifth of a carat. The Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond is therefore considered one of the most important colored diamonds to appear on the market. The Winston Pink Legacy (18.936 carats) surpassed 50 million in 2018 and set a world record price per carat for a pink diamond sold at auction.
Rahul-Kadakia durante un'asta di Christie's
Rahul-Kadakia durante un’asta di Christie’s

Following the success of The Fortune Pink which fetched nearly $30 million in Geneva, we are proud to have been approached by a private collector to offer this incredible diamond for auction in December. This season has seen outstanding results for fancy color diamonds and this particular vivid fancy pink is top notch. With impressive saturation, stepped facets, and potentially flawless clarity internally, this 13.15-carat fancy vivid pink is beautifully rare.
Rahul Kadakia, International Head of Christie’s Jewellery

The Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond will be exhibited in New York from November 14th to November 15th, in Hong Kong from November 25th to November 28th and presented in New York from December 2nd to December 5th.

TOP VIVID PINK DIAMONDS OFFERED BY CHRISTIE’S

The Winston Pink Legacy
The Winston Pink Legacy

The Winston Pink Legacy
18.96 carat fancy vivid pink cut corner rectangular cut diamond
US$50,375,000 / Price per carat: US$2,650,000
The Pink Promise, diamante ovale fancy vivid pink diamond di 14.93 carati. Venduto per 32,163 milioni di dollari a Hong Kong
The Pink Promise, diamante ovale fancy vivid pink diamond di 14.93 carati. Venduto per 32,163 milioni di dollari a Hong Kong

The Pink Promise
Oval-shaped bright pink fancy diamond of 14.93 carats
US$ 32,163,932 / Price per carat: US$ 2,150,000
Fortune Pink, diamante rosa vivido fantasia da 18,18 carat
Fortune Pink, diamante rosa vivido fantasia da 18,18 carat

The Fortune Pink
Pear-shaped vivid pink fantasy of 18.18 carats
US$ 28,816,336 / Price per carat: US$ 1,585,056

Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond di 13,15 carati
Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond di 13,15 carati







Christie’s sells The Fortune Pink for 28 million




Pink likes it, but it hasn’t hit a record. All as in the forecasts at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction in Geneva. The most anticipated piece, The Fortune Pink, an 18.18-carat pear-shaped vivid pink diamond, sold for 28,438,500 Swiss francs. It is the largest pink diamond ever sold at auction, but it did not reach the highest price of the estimate, which reached 35 million. However, the sale remains a success. In total, Christie’s sold lots for 56.6 million francs. Another highlight was a 101.27-carat unmounted diamond, which sold for 2.9 million francs.

Fortune Pink, diamante rosa vivido fantasia da 18,18 carat
Fortune Pink, diamante rosa vivido fantasia da 18,18 carat

Geneva Luxury sales offered 572 lots, with collectors from 50 countries active during live sales. The second half of this memorable week will continue at New York’s Rockefeller Plaza, where 150 masterpieces from the Paul G Allen Collection will be offered Wednesday and Thursday, which are expected to make $ 1 billion (£ 880 million), all estate proceeds from the sale. it will be dedicated to philanthropy, according to the wishes of Mr. Allen.
Rahul Kadakia, international manager of Christie’s Jewelery

Rahul-Kadakia durante un'asta di Christie's
Rahul-Kadakia durante un’asta di Christie’s

Other results from the Geneva auction: a Graff diamond ring weighing 41.36 carats was sold for 3.6 million, a rivière diamond necklace from the collection of Lord and Lady Weinstock found a buyer for 869,400 francs. It should be noted, according to Christie’s, that 50% of the active collectors at the four live auctions were new, mostly millennials. In total the auctions amounted to 113,482,763 francs, with a combined sales rate of 98%.
Anello con diamante di 41,36 carati di Graff
Anello con diamante di 41,36 carati di Graff

Collana rivière di diamanti
Collana rivière di diamanti

The Fortune Pink montato su anello
The Fortune Pink montato su anello







The personalized solitaires of Recarlo




High-end rings, in white gold and diamonds, but personalized. Recarlo, a Valenza-based company (Italy) specializing in jewelery for anniversaries, weddings, engagements (but not only), has also decided to offer customers a solitaire personalization service. The service is called Atelier del Solitario. In addition to the round cut diamond, it will also be possible to choose other shapes for the gem, such as drop, marquise, cushion and emerald. The chosen stone is then set on a white gold setting embellished with taper cut diamonds (i.e. baguette with a trapezoidal shape, narrower on a short side) on the stem. In addition, the personalized rings are engraved with the carat weight on the stem and are provided with an international gemological certification.

Anelli in oro bianco e diamanti di Recarlo
Anelli in oro bianco e diamanti di Recarlo

The company led by Paolo Re is also planning the opening of single-brand stores, to be added to the multi-brand channel in the future. Recarlo will open other shop-in-shops within some multi-brand stores: at the moment there are ten in Italy to which one in Piedmont, one in Lombardy and one in Umbria are about to be added, in addition to one already present in Spain.

Anelli di Recarlo indossati
Anelli di Recarlo indossati

Anello in oro bianco con diamante taglio pera
Anello in oro bianco con diamante taglio pera

Anello della linea Anniversary indossato
Anello della linea Anniversary indossato







A pink diamond guides Christie’s Magnificent Jewels




The auctions of the most precious jewels and gems are organized, not surprisingly, before the winter holidays. Like the Christie’s Geneva Magnificent Jewels auction on November 8 at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues. Among the many jewels and precious stones on sale, the Fortune Pink stands out, a vivid pink fantasy diamond of 18.18 carats (estimate 25-35 million Swiss francs). This is the largest pear-shaped bright pink diamond for sale through an auction. the number of carats, 18.18, is also considered a good omen in China, where the gems could find a buyer. Also among the gems for sale is an impressive 101.27 carat diamond (2,500,000-3,500,000), along with an exceptional 41.36-carat (3,000,000-5,000) emerald-cut Graff D color diamond ring. 000).

Il diamante The Fortune Pink, 18,18 carati
Il diamante The Fortune Pink, 18,18 carati

But the Magnificent Jewels auction also has a lot of other precious pieces in the catalog. Like the rivière necklace with a pear-shaped diamond of 10.33 carats (estimated at 550,000-750,000 Swiss francs), which is part of the Collection of Lord and Lady Weinstock. The necklace has a total of about 100 carats and is a typical example of the rivière style, that is, with stones with scaling size. There is no shortage of jewels with blue blood. Like those from the Bourbon families Parma and Thurn und Taxis, which include an Art Déco Chimera bracelet with natural pearls, rubies and diamonds (100,000-180,000) and an exceptional Bulgari pearl necklace (300,000-500,000).
Anello con diamante di 41,36 carati  di Graff
Anello con diamante di 41,36 carati di Graff

An uncommon piece is the diamond band dated around 1920 (70,000-100,000). It is a fusion of a tiara and a headband. The simplicity of the headband was a perfect match for the modern style of the Art Deco period and also ideal for the new hairstyles of the era. However, the band can also be worn today, for example as if it were a bracelet.
Also up for auction are precious bracelet watches, such as those from Bulgari’s Serpenti line from the Sixties. Among the lots on sale there is also a pair of Art Deco earrings by Henri Picq, with diamonds of 15.39 and 14.85 carats (1,500,000-2,500,000) and a magnificent ring with a Kashmir sapphire of 14.84 carats by Cartier (1,000,000-1,450,000).
Bracciale-orologio Serpenti di Bulgari, in oro, diamanti, smeraldi
Bracciale-orologio Serpenti di Bulgari, in oro, diamanti, smeraldi

Collana rivière di diamanti
Collana rivière di diamanti
Bracciali art déco a fascia di diamanti
Bracciali art déco a fascia di diamanti

Bracciale con zaffiro ovale regalato dal duca Roberto di Parma alla moglie Maria Antonia di Braganza
Bracciale con zaffiro ovale regalato dal duca Roberto di Parma alla moglie Maria Antonia di Braganza







5 questions before buying a vintage jewel 




Buying a ring, but also a necklace or a pair of earrings created many years ago, can be a bargain, and at the same time a pleasant research. There are many auctions that sell jewelry, often at an affordable price. But how to choose a vintage ring? Here are the six rules to follow ♦

Gioielli d'epoca a GenGèneve
Gioielli d’epoca a GenGèneve

There are a lot of people who love vintage jewelry, perhaps to give as an engagement ring. They have more charm, a story behind them and, sometimes, even a good price. But there is a problem: you have to know how to choose them. And it’s not easy. Here are five useful questions for those who want to hunt for vintage jewelry. If you can answer these questions, you will have important information for your choice.

Collier con ametiste e turchesi messo all'asta
Collier con ametiste e turchesi messo all’asta

1 How old is the ring? If you are not a super expert, it is difficult to determine the age of a ring, also because the most successful jewels have been reproduced with not always perfect imitations. In any case, it is important to ask the dealer (if it is reliable, that is, a renowned auction house or a jeweler who cannot afford to deceive anyone) the approximate age of the ring being considered. If you get an answer, look carefully at the ring: the style must be consistent with the year of manufacture. For example, if they tell you it is from the late nineteenth century, it cannot be Art Deco, a much more recent style. But how do you find out? Simple: before buying a ring from a specific era, compare jewels of the same age on the internet and compare them. On the online catalogs of the auction houses, for example, there are numerous examples of vintage jewelery that are certified.

Anello Art Deco di Boucheron con una grossa acquamarina. Venduto per 19mila euro
Anello Art Deco di Boucheron con una grossa acquamarina

2 Do you have any stones that have been replaced? There are rings that are more than 100 years old. It is not an infrequent case if in the meantime a stone has ruined, come loose or has been replaced. Then take a close look at the ring stone with a lens: if it is original, it is unlikely that it will not show scratches or small signs of wear. Even though diamonds are more resistant and more difficult to ruin, it is difficult for a vintage gem to not show any signs of wear.

Anello Art Déco in oro bianco e diamanti con rubino burmese, da Bentley & Skinner
Anello Art Déco in oro bianco e diamanti con rubino burmese, da Bentley & Skinner

3 What cut should the diamond of a vintage ring have? Ancient diamonds have a different cut than the current one. So, be careful: if the vendor offers you a ring from 1910 with a brilliant cut (round) diamond, it is likely that the stone was replaced, since that shape for diamonds did not spread until after 1919. Often the Vintage diamonds are less perfect in terms of color and transparency.

Anello del periodo Edoardiano con diamante da 2,5 carati taglio old-mine
Anello del periodo Edoardiano con diamante da 2,5 carati taglio old-mine

4 Is the ring insured? Sometimes jewelers (especially abroad) ensure the most precious pieces. Of course, it must be worth it. An insurance contract, if it exists, is a reliable yardstick for the jewel, which has previously been subjected to an expert appraisal, who has assessed it and has priced it.

Asta di Christie's a Ginevra
Asta di Christie’s a Ginevra

5 Do you want to sell it in the future? Of course, it’s not nice to say, but it is good to think about it first: a ring in the future could be an object to be sold. In this case it is good to know if the jeweler offers guarantees on the quality of the ring you want to buy. A ring is not an indestructible object and it is good to make sure that it has no defects that could deform or depreciate it.

Anello vittoriano in oro e diamanti
Anello vittoriano in oro e diamanti

6 What style does jewelry have? It is important to establish not only the age of a jewel, but also if its shape is still current. Art Deco jewels, for example, have seen increasing popularity in recent years. The Victorian era jewels, on the other hand, were sought after only by fans of the genre. Different is the case of a vintage jewel that does not have a precise style, for example a simple diamond ring. In that case, the quality of the stone counts more than the style. Giulia Netrese

Anello Art Deco con platino, diamanti e zaffiri
Anello Art Deco con platino, diamanti e zaffiri
Girocollo Glycines di Philippe Wolfers, Art Nouveau. Oro, tormalina intagliata, opale intagliato, rubini, granato
Girocollo Glycines di Philippe Wolfers, Art Nouveau. Oro, tormalina intagliata, opale intagliato, rubini, granato

Anello Art Nouveau con lucertola e uccello, in oro e opale
Anello Art Nouveau con lucertola e uccello, in oro e opale

Bracciale rigido Almasika Universum in oro 18 carati e tsavorite
Bracciale rigido Almasika Universum in oro 18 carati e tsavorite







Crieri makes wisteria bloom




Wisteria blooms early: Crieri doesn’t wait for spring to launch a new series of jewels. The Glicine (wisteria)  collection. The plant, wisteria, was named after the botanist Thomas Nuttall in memory of the American physician and anatomist Caspar Wistar, it inspired rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces, made around the drop motif. Indeed, the petals of the wisteria flower resemble drops gathered in clusters. Instead of the violet color, the Wisteria collection features the classic colors of 18K gold and diamonds.

Anello Glicine con gocce in oro e tre diamanti briolette
Anello Glicine con gocce in oro e tre diamanti briolette

Alongside the shape reminiscent of the clusters of the wisteria flower, with the drops arranged in clusters interrupted by a diamond, the collection also presents an interpretation of the classic moi et toi, where a briolette-cut diamond contrasts with a drop in gold . Even the earrings follow the same stylistic key, with drops in gold together with diamonds with the same shape, both in the button model and in the pendant ones. The bracelets are also made up of gold drops alternating with small diamonds, as is the necklace, consisting of a thin chain and a central pendant made with pavé diamonds, or with small gold drops lined up and interspersed with a diamond. With a teardrop cut, of course.
Collana con pendente in oro e diamanti
Collana con pendente in oro e diamante a goccia

Collana con pendente a pavé di diamanti
Collana con pendente a pavé di diamanti
Bracciale in oro con tre diamanti
Bracciale in oro con tre diamanti
Anello in oro 18 carati
Anello in oro 18 carati
Orecchini pendenti in oro e diamanti
Orecchini pendenti in oro e diamanti
Orecchini con pavé di diamanti
Orecchini con pavé di diamanti
Orecchini a bottone con gocce in oro e diamanti
Orecchini a bottone con gocce in oro e diamanti
Orecchini Glicine in oro e diamanti
Orecchini Glicine in oro e diamanti

Anello moi et toi in oro e diamanti
Anello moi et toi in oro e diamanti







A 303-carat golden canary




Sotheby’s has put the turbo. The great auction house continues to present exceptional stones. This time the news comes from Dubai, where Sotheby’s showed one of the largest diamonds, called The Golden Canary. It is a 303.10 carat “monster”, and is the largest flawless or internally flawless diamond ever graded by the Gia. In short, an exceptional stone even if the price will probably remain lower than those of pink or blue diamonds. Estimates for The Golden Canary point to around $ 15 million. The stone will be auctioned at Sotheby’s New York in December. Curiously, it will be offered without reserve with bids starting at just one dollar.

The Golden Canary, diamante di 303.10 carati Fancy Deep Brownish Yellow, Courtesy: Sotheby's
The Golden Canary, diamante di 303.10 carati Fancy Deep Brownish Yellow, Courtesy: Sotheby’s

We have had a bumper year in which we have featured stunning colored diamonds at our global jewelry auctions, as the demand and appetite for these rarities continues to grow. Just two weeks after the record sale of the Williamson Pink Star for $ 57.7 million, we are honored to offer the largest polished diamond in existence to appear at auction. Steeped in history, The Golden Canary is one of the most exquisite diamonds ever discovered, not only for its size and intensity of color, but for its extraordinary beauty that is sure to fascinate collectors around the world. Sotheby’s has the privilege of helping write the next chapter of this incomparable and reborn gem.
Quig Bruning, Head of Jewelry for Sotheby’s America’s

Quig Bruning, Head of Jewelry per Sotheby's America's
Quig Bruning, Head of Jewelry per Sotheby’s America’s

However, The Golden Canary remains an exceptional stone: it has been classified as a Fancy Deep Brownish-Yellow Diamond. The gem also has a story to tell. It was cut from a giant 407-carat rough diamond with a shield shape. The Golden Canary was consequently cut into a pear shape. The diamond will be presented on a world tour. After Dubail, I will be in Taipei, Geneva and Hong Kong.
Il diamante è staro ricavato da una pietra grezza di 407 carati
Il diamante è staro ricavato da una pietra grezza di 407 carati. Courtesy: Sotheby’s

The Golden Canary. Courtesy: Sotheby's
The Golden Canary. Courtesy: Sotheby’s







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