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CHANNEL SETChannel setting is the most secure way of setting diamonds into a wedding ring because the entire edge of the band is covering the sides of the diamond. It also makes the diamonds a bit more subtly since they are set low into the ring which makes it perfect for adding a bit of sparkle to the ring.
You can increase the width of the design so that the diamonds will be larger to fill the band or you can choose a design where the metal widens but the row of diamonds stays the same width.
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PAVE SETPave or grain setting is where small beads of metal are used to hold the diamonds in the band, this can be vintage in appearance especially if the design has a beaded edge.
This setting style also allows you to set multiple rows of diamonds to create an encrusted look so little metal can be seen.
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PRONG SETProng set ring have diamonds set onto of the band with each diamond being held by claws this allows the sides of the diamonds to be visible which makes them very sparkly.
As you increase the width of a prong set band the diamond size will increase.
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CHOOSE A STYLE
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CHOOSE A SHAPE
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CHOOSE A METAL
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PLAIN WEDDING RINGS
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DIAMOND WEDDING RINGS
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CHOOSE A STYLE
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CHOOSE A SHAPE
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CHOOSE A METAL
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Learning
What would you like to find out more about?
Ring Size Guide
Engagement Rings
Wedding Rings
Fine Jewellery
Metals
Diamonds
Hallmarking
Jewellery Care
Ring Size Guide
If you have access to a printer, just print out the below page, take off your existing ring, and draw around the inside, you should probably do this 3 times to avoid any random results.
Measure the inside width of the circle you've drawn, and then compare this to the above chart. You can also place your existing ring over the circles, to find the closest fit
Ring Size Guide
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A
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B
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C
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D
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E
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F
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G
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H
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I
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J
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K
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L
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M
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N
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O
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P
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Q
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R
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S
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T
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U
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V
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W
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X
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Y
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Z
| Ring Size (UK) | Measurement (mm) |
| A | 37.8 |
| B | 39.1 |
| C | 40.4 |
| D | 41.7 |
| E | 42.9 |
| F | 44.2 |
| G | 45.5 |
| Ring Size (UK) | Measurement (mm) |
| H | 46.8 |
| I | 48.0 |
| J | 48.7 |
| K | 50.0 |
| L | 51.2 |
| M | 52.5 |
| N | 53.8 |
| Ring Size (UK) | Measurement (mm) |
| O | 55.1 |
| P | 55.76 |
| Q | 57.15 |
| R | 58.47 |
| S | 60.00 |
| T | 61.29 |
| U | 62.89 |
| Ring Size (UK) | Measurement (mm) |
| V | 63.84 |
| W | 65.22 |
| X | 66.54 |
| Y | 67.51 |
| Z | 68.77 |
Choosing your ring
Ring styles
Setting styles
Metals
When finding your perfect ring you will need to consider the personality of the person you are buying for, will they want something super sparkly or something understated. Will they need something practical that they can wear every day or will they not be able to wear a ring to work?
Choosing your ring
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The diamond
Finding the right diamond will be deciding on the right balance of carat, colour, clarity and cut for more help with this visit our Diamond education pages. Deciding on the shape of diamond will depend on the person you are buying for, will that want something traditional like a round diamond, or more modern like a Princess cut? If you think they would like something more unusual then one of the fancy shapes maybe be a good choice. Cushion cuts have grown a lot in popularity over the last few years which are closer to an old fashioned cut of diamond, a combination of round and Princess Cushion cuts are square or oblong in shape with rounded corners. If you think she would like something with an understated sparkle then an Asscher cut or Emerald cut would suit, these cuts of diamond have less facets and produce a mirror like sparkle.
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Ring style
Choosing the style of ring she would like is usually easier than you would think, a solitaire will be perfect for someone who would like something very classic, traditional or simply to show of one beautiful center diamond. Going for a shoulderset design will add a bit of sparkle to the band for those who would prefer to see more diamonds whilst still looking delicate and showing off that main diamond. A halo really maximises the sparkle of the overall ring and increases the size of the main stone for those who wish to make more of a statement. A trilogy design will cover the top of her fingers with three diamonds and makes for a traditional style ring.
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Setting style
How you set the diamond will affect how it sparkles, a four claw setting will shoe off a lot of the stone and allow the light to shine through. Six claw settings can increase the roundness of the appearance of the diamond but you lose the ability to see the point from the side view, this is a very secure setting though as you have more claws surrounding the diamond. Consider whether you would like a high setting to show off the diamond and make it look larger or a lower setting where the diamond is more protected from day to day wear, less likely to catch on clothing etc. A bezel setting is more modern in appearance, it accentuates the shape of the diamond set within in it and is very secure but allows less light to shine through it as more of the stone is covered.
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Metal
The metal often reflect the colour or style of jewellery already owned by the person you are buying for, it makes sense to match their existing style. Gold is traditional and luxurious in appearance and lends itself easily to warm skin tones. White gold or Platinum are very popular choices, the whiteness of the metal reflects through the diamonds increasing their sparkle. Rose gold has had a resurgence over recent years with the soft tone slightly gentler than traditional gold.
Choosing from the wide range of designs available will most likely be your first step when searching for the perfect engagement ring. Aspire has a selection of styles available depending whether you are looking for something understand or a bit more unusual.
Ring Style Guide
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SolitaireA solitaire style ring features a single diamond set on a plain band, these typically have four or six claws. A round diamond in a four claw setting will look slightly squarer but will show off a lot of the diamond whereas a six claw setting will appear rounder. Solitaire rings are extremely popular for their simplicity in highlighting the center diamond. Solitaires are available in a range of designs from something very classic to some detailing underneath the setting. -
Shoulder setShoulderset rings have diamonds added into the band (into the shoulders) these diamonds can be set in different ways to give a different overall appearance to the band. -
Channel SetRings with channel set shoulders have small diamonds set into the metal (in a channel). The diamonds are held in place by the entire edge of the channel covering each side of the diamonds. This setting allows the diamonds to sit flush with the band of the ring making it very secure and practical. It is also a subtle way of adding some extra sparkle to the ring. -
Pave setPave set rings allow lots of diamonds to be set close together so the overall appearance of the band seems to be diamonds. Each small stone is set with grains of metal so the maximum amount of diamond can be seen. Pave set mounts can have a single row of diamonds or multiple rows across the band. This setting gives a diamond encrusted appearance. -
Prong setRings with prong set shoulders have the sides of the band cut away to show off the sides of the diamonds with prongs of metal holding the stones. This setting usually has larger diamonds than in a pave style but still gives the appearance of a solid diamond band. This setting gives the maximum sparkle in the shoulders of the ring. -
HaloA halo style ring has a ring of diamonds set round the center diamond, this can be a single halo (one row) or a double halo (two rows). Having a halo design accentuates the appearance of the size of your center diamond. This style often has diamonds set into the shoulders of the band as well but not always. -
TrilogyTrilogy engagement rings feature three larger diamonds, traditionally representing the past, the present and the future. These diamonds can be all three the same size of show off one larger center stone. The can also be different shaped diamonds, very popular is pear or baguette shaped diamonds on the sides because of the way they taper into the band. -
VintageVintage style rings are usually ornate and decorative, beading on the edges of the band is very popular as it gives the ring a delicate feel. These designs take inspirations from jewellery trends throughout history so tend to be more unusual in design. Pave setting is often used in vintage designs because of the encrusted appearance it gives. -
Bridal SetsBridal sets consist of a matching wedding ring and engagement ring purchased at the same time. Traditional an engagement ring is brought initially then a wedding ring is purchased at a later date, however if the design is particular intricate then it can be tricky finding a wed to match. Buying a bridal set makes sure you have the perfect complimenting set.
The setting style of the ring will reflect the style of the wearer, prong settings are very classic but some styles can be quite high set.
Setting Style Guide
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PRONGThe most traditional style of setting is a claw/prong setting, this style allows the maximum amount of light to shine through the stone increasing its sparkle.
Prong settings are most often in a four or six claw style, four claws will show off the most of the diamond but will give a round diamond a slightly square appearance whereas a six claw will look rounder.
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COMPASSA compass set ring has the claws mounted at north south east west points on the band, this can be in a twisted design or with traditional straight claws.
Compass set claws give the diamond a very different appearance more like a ‘diamond’ shape often looking more modern. A twisted design can allow the claws to appear to flow from the band of the ring so looks very organic.
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BEZELBezel or rubover setting style is a strip of metal encasing the diamond all around the edge. It is contemporary in appearance and emphasises the shape of the center stone.
Bezel setting is the most secure way of setting a diamond but less of the stone is visible as the bezel covers the whole outer of the stone. Half bezel settings are also popular since these styles allow light to shine through the sides of the setting.
Choosing the right metal is an important part of the ring design but can often be a simple decision she may already wear a lot of yellow gold jewellery so you can easily find her preference. If you are unsure what metal she wears mostly or perhaps she doesn't wear much jewellery then consider her skin tone and colouring.
White metals are a popular choice for most people but gold and rose tones often compliment warmer skin or hair colours. Gold is a more traditional engagement ring metal so consider whether this would be important to her.
Choosing your ring
Metals
Diamond Set
Plain
A good start is consider whether you would prefer a plain band or a finish or perhaps a diamond set ring. A wedding ring traditionally is worn every single day even though you cannot necessarily always wear the engagement ring, at work for example. This means that a wedding ring should suit your everyday life, think about whether you need it to very practical or if something more decorative will be suitable.
For the this may mean a comfortable shape ring and a hard-wearing metal or a plain wed versus a diamond set band. If you have smaller fingers think how the width of your wedding ring will sit on your finger, if you are wearing an engagement ring as well will you need a slimmer wedding band?
When choosing a ring to sit with an existing engagement ring consider whether a straight band will sit flush with your ring or whether a shaped band will be needed if you would prefer no gap between the two rings.
It is also possible to choose matching wedding ring profiles in different widths or metals to keep some similarity between the two rings.
We also offer the option to engrave on the inside of the rings, something a lot of couples now do to add a personalised touch, this can be added at the checkout.
A good start is to consider whether you would prefer a plain band or a finish or perhaps a diamond set ring. A wedding ring traditionally is worn every single day even though you cannot necessarily always wear the engagement ring, at work for example. This means that a wedding ring should suit your everyday life, think about whether you need it to very practical or if something more decorative will be suitable.
For the this may mean a comfortable shape ring and a hard-wearing metal or a plain wed versus a diamond set band. If you have smaller fingers think how the width of your wedding ring will sit on your finger, if you are wearing an engagement ring as well will you need a slimmer wedding band?
When choosing a ring to sit with an existing engagement ring consider whether a straight band will sit flush with your ring or whether a shaped band will be needed if you would prefer no gap between the two rings.
It is also possible to choose matching wedding ring profiles in different widths or metals to keep some similarity between the two rings.
We also offer the option to engrave on the inside of the rings, something a lot of couples now do to add a personalised touch, this can be added at the checkout.
Diamond set rings are chosen by the width and the setting style, if you have a diamond set engagement ring then you may want to match the setting style and width to the shoulders of the engagement ring. Alternatively, you may prefer to choose a different style to accentuate the two individual rings.
If you have a solitaire or an engagement ring with plain polished shoulders then you can choose any style you would like to compliment your existing ring.
Diamond set wedding rings are normally half set or 60% set to make them practical for everyday wear, the diamonds in a full set ring on the underside of the band are more susceptible to wear and tear. A full diamond set band cannot be re-sized at a later date if required.
Diamond Set Guide
Plain wedding rings are available in a variety of profiles, choosing your preference will depend if you are matching the band to another ring so you would need to choose the most similar shape. If not then you can choose based on the appearance of the band shape and the comfort.
The width for the ladies on average is 2mm-3mm and for the gents is 5mm-6mm, this will depend a little on your finger size though and personal preference as there are a wide range of width options. The ladies plain wedding ring is often a fraction larger than the width of the engagement ring to ensure it still stands out as a ring however this is not always the case, some people would rather an exact match.
Choosing the wedding ring weight depends if you would prefer something light that doesn’t feel too obvious to wear or something heavy that you can really feel on your hand. As you increase from light weight to medium weight to heavy then depth of the ring increases.
The ladies band will be a case of matching a style to the engagement ring, that may mean an exact like for like style or something complimentary that doesn’t over power the existing ring but suits well.
A solitaire engagement ring can be easily worn with a plain band of matching profile (the shape of the band) or with something diamond set or with a finish (a pattern applied to the plain band). Engagement rings with diamonds in the shoulders or halo are often matched with the same style diamond setting as the engagement ring.
The Gents wedding rings begin with choosing profile, usually by selecting the most comfortable preferred shape. The deciding whether you prefer a plain polished band or with a finish added on to the design.
Plain Wedding Ring Guide
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Traditional
Court ShapeCourt shaped wedding rings have a gentle curve on the inside and the outside of the ring, this is a very traditional wedding band shape and is considered very comfortable due to the curve inside the ring.
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SLIGHT COURTThe slight court is similar to a traditional court shape with the curved inside and outer band profile but with less of a curve to it.
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D-SHAPEThe D-shaped wedding bands are also a very traditional wedding band profile. They are shaped like a ‘D’ with the inside of the ring completely flat but with a curved outer shape. The Curve becomes more pronounced as you increase the weight of the band.
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Engagement
Match CourtThis profile is a similar shape to most engagement rings, it is a little flatter on the top with curved edges.
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FLAT COURTThe flat court is the reverse of the D shaped band, it has a curved inside with makes it comfortable but is completely flat on the outside of the ring.
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FLATThe flat profile is completely flat on the inside and outside of the band with flat sides as well.
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FINISHES
The finishes are a range of patterns which can be applied to the plain wedding rings for those who want to go for something a bit different.
Bracelets
Earrings
Pendants
A diamond bracelet is a classic way of adding some extra sparkle. Tennis bracelets were originally created for a more active lifestyle as an alternative to bangles and heavy bracelets. The term Tennis bracelet was coined in 1987 during the US Open when Chris Everet requested the match to be paused whilst she searched for her diamond bracelet which had fallen on the court.
Bracelet Guide
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Single row
Tennis braceletA single row tennis bracelet will add a little sparkle whilst still being easy to wear and very elegant in appearance. Single tennis bracelets are the most traditional style comprising of a row of prong set diamonds.
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Double Row
Tennis braceletThree and four row tennis bracelets will add a substantial amount more sparkle for something extra special, these are made up of multiple rows or diamonds to give an encrusted appearance.
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Three Row and Four
Row Tennis BraceletsThree and four row tennis bracelets will add a substantial amount more sparkle for something extra special, these are made up of multiple rows or diamonds to give an encrusted appearance.
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Designer BraceletsDesigner bracelets offer something a bit more unusual to the classic tennis style, these designs vary in diamond shape and often feature clusters of diamonds to form a pattern. An ideal choice for someone who prefers something more unique.
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BanglesDiamond Bangles are a traditional style of jewellery, these allow you to add diamonds to something more substantial. Diamond bangles come in a variety of settings from channel which will be the most secure, to prong and grain setting which will show off the most sparkle.
Diamond earrings make a wonderful gift and come in a range of different style. Choose from the Classic studs which can be worn day to day to some more elaborate drop designs for more of a statement.
Earrings Guide
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StudsClassic diamond studs are most traditionally Round diamonds in a four or six claw setting however they are now available in all diamond shapes and can be matched to the engagement ring shape for a nice touch. Consider the diamond size, for example are they for everyday wear or would larger stones be preferable for a more evening look?
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HaloHalo diamond earrings have a row of small diamonds around the main diamond, this adds some sparkle to the design and will make the overall appearance larger. A halo design is a bit more modern and unusual than the classic studs.
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DropsDrop earrings add a lot of sparkle for a special occasion or evening look, they add a bit of movement which will allow the diamonds to catch the light a sparkle more. Drops come in lots of shapes and sizes depending on how much of a statement you wish to make!
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ClustersCluster earrings will give a diamond encrusted appearance, these often combine different diamond shapes, so the overall effect can be very different. Clusters are usually great values since they are made up of lots of smaller diamonds all set together.
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HoopsHoop earrings can range from designs which are snug to the ear and suitable for wearing everyday due to their fixed clasp, to larger multi row hoops which will be much larger and more sparkly. Hoop earrings also move and catch the light in a way which studs cannot.
A diamond necklace can add a subtle bit of sparkle which is easy to wear every day like a single stone pendant or be a breath-taking piece such as a diamond tennis necklace. Choosing a diamond necklace has many options so think about the occasion it may be for and how often it will be worn.
Diamond pendants can often be matched to the style of an engagement ring or diamond earrings so it is worth checking if a similar style is available.
Pendants Guide
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Diamond solitaire
PendantsA solitaire pendant is traditionally a round diamond in a four claw setting but they are available in all different diamond shapes if you would prefer something more unusual. Pear cut diamonds make elegant pendants because of their drop shape. A diamond solitaire pendant can make a classic gift which would be more suitable for every day.
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Diamond Halo
PendantA halo diamond pendant will add a nice extra row of sparkle around the center diamond, this may match nicely to the style of an existing engagement ring or earrings. A halo set pendant is a nice twist on a classic design.
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Diamond Trilogy and
Journey PendantTrilogy pendants and journey pendants (three or five stones increasing in size) are a special way of celebrating a special occasion. A Trilogy pendant traditionally represents the past, the present, and the future and a Journey pendant commemorates the special moments, dreams and the journeys that occur in life.
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Designer PendantsDesigner pendants can be styles such as clusters and more decorative drop pendants. These designs will usually comprise of lots of smaller diamonds creating a more sparkly overall appearance. These are often a more
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Diamond Tennis
NecklaceThe diamond tennis necklace is a real showstopper, similar to the diamond tennis bracelet the necklace comprises of diamonds which often completely encircle the neck. A diamond tennis necklace will make a real statement and add some serious sparkle to any outfit.
Shape
Carat
Clarity
Colour
Cut
Certification
Conflict Free
Diamonds come in a range of shapes each providing a different overall appearance, taking some time to compare these may unearth a favourite which you had not previously heard of.
Shape Guide
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Round Brilliant CutRound Brilliant Cut diamonds are the most popular shape. These are cut to maximise the reflection of light through the diamond. Cut with 58 facets the round diamond has been has been optimized over the years to provide the maximum amount of light giving it a fantastic fire and sparkle. -
HeartHeart shaped diamonds are cut with the brilliance of a round diamond yet striking in appearance and by far the most romantic shape. The heart shape will be clearer in larger carat weights so that when set the prongs do not alter the appearance of the shape. -
Emerald cutEmerald cut diamonds have a completely different sparkle to most other diamond shapes, the have a mirror like sparkle often associated with the 20s. The Emerald cut takes its name from the gemstone since this step-cut style was originally only used on gemstones. This type of cut was popular for showing off the high quality your diamond since inclusions are easily spotted in this type of cut. -
Asscher cutAsscher cut diamonds are step cut like emerald cut diamonds are but in a square shape, they have cut corners so can appear octagon shaped from a distance. This is an unusual style of diamond cut which has a mirror like sparkle. As with emerald cuts inclusions can easily be seen so it is important to buy as high a clarity as possible to -
Marquise cutMarquise cut diamonds also known as navette (old French for little ship) are faceted like a round brilliant but elongated to create a 'boat' like shape which will really maximise your carat weight. The marquise cut produces an elegant alternative to more traditional diamond shapes, emphasising length of slender fingers. Legend tells that the marquise cut was named for Marquise de Pompadour by King Louis XV because of its resembled her smile. -
Radiant CutThe Radiant cut is similar in shape to an emerald cut diamond but it has been faceted like a brilliant. Perfect for those who perfect the rectangular or square shape of the emerald cut but whould prefer a sparkle like a round brilliant. The radiant is an unusual cut created to show the beauty of each diamond shape in a striking new way. -
Oval CutOval cut diamonds are faceted like a round brilliant cut but elongated slightly which maximises your carat weight in the same way a marquise cut does. This is perfect for those who would an impressive size stone for the carat with maximum brilliance. -
Cushion CutThe cushion cut diamond is reminiscent of the old Mine cut of the 19th and 20th century. The mine cut featured larger facets and soft, rounded corners. Cushion cut diamonds have a different sparkle to a round brilliant cut but are cut to disperse the light creating flashes of spectral colour. Cushion cut diamonds are a popular choice for fancy colours due to the way they hold the colour and reflect the light. -
Princess cutThe Princess Cut diamond has become increasingly popular over recent years due to its modern square shape. Faceted with either 57 or 76 facets this shape is known for its brilliance, if you are looking for something slightly different but with a fantastic sparkle then a Princess cut is perfect. -
Pear CutPear cut or tear shape diamonds combine the traits of a round brilliant cut and a marquise cut creating an elegant shape with fantastic sparkle. Pear cut diamonds can increase in width or length as the carat weight increases. As well as being popular in engagement rings pear cuts also make very beautiful drop pendants and earrings.
All diamonds are weighed in metric carats. Carats are divided up in a similar way to a British pound. For example in every pound there is one hundred pence. For example a 0.75pt diamond will be a 0.75ct which is 0.75pt out of one carat. The common misconception with carat is that this refers to the actual physical size of the diamond. It in fact just refers to the weight of the diamond when it is on the scales.
The physical size is determined by other factors from the 4c's. When diamonds are weighed it is usually done to the most accurate hundred thousandth. The reason for this is a point either way can alter the cost.
We always suggest trying different carat weights on to see which is the best for you. Many of our customers have started of looking at a 0.40ct diamond and ended up leaving with a much bigger diamond mainly due to the bigger size sitting much better on their finger.
If you are ever in doubt about carat weight please feel free to contact us and one of our diamond experts will explain this to you in more detail.
Carat Scale
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0.25ct.
4.1mm
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0.50ct.
5.2mm
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0.75ct.
5.9mm
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1.00ct.
6.5mm
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1.5ct.
7.4mm
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2.00ct.
8.2mm
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2.50ct.
9.0mm
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3.00ct.
9.3mm
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4.00ct.
10.2mm
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5.00ct.
11.0mm
Clarity is the measure of imperfections in a diamond. These are more commonly known as 'inclusions'. Inclusions come in different forms such as feathers, bubbles and carbon marks. They can come in different shapes and sizes depending on the size and location in the diamond.
Below you can see the clarity charts you can purchase from us. Take your time and read each in detail. If you need any more information please contact us and one of our diamond experts will be happy to take you through the different grades.
Clarity Scale
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FFlawless diamondThe diamond shows no inclusions or blemises of any sort under 10X magnification when observed by an experienced grader. -
IFInternally flawless diamondThe diamond has no inclusions when observed by an experienced grader using 10X magnification, but will have some minor blemishes. -
VVS1 / VVS2Very, very slightly included diamondThe diamond contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10X magnification. -
VS1 / VS2Very slightly included diamondThe diamond contains minute inclusions such as small crystals, clouds or feathers when oberved with effort under 10X magnification. -
S1 / S2Slightly included diamondThe diamond contains inclusions (clouds, included crystals, knots, cavities and feathers) that are noticeable to an experienced grader under 10X magnification. -
I1 / I2 / I3Included diamondThe diamond contains inclusions (possible large feathers or large included crystals) that are obvious under 10X magnification and may affect transparancy and brilliance.
A common misunderstanding with colour grading is that in fact what the colour grading is referring to is the lack of colour in the diamond. For example a K colour diamond is going to be a light yellow while a D colour will be colourless or 'white'. The colour scale goes from Z being the lowest and D Being the highest. At diamond heaven we sell a minimum of an H colour up to a D colour unless you are looking for a cloured stone such as a fancy coloured diamond such as a blue, yellow, pink green. These can be specially sourced if needed.
Which Colour is for you?
If you want a diamond that is near colourless we recommend D-F. While they're expensive they are more than worth it. If you don't want to spend the amount for D-F then we recommend the G colour. While not as colourless these stones are still a beautiful while colour which will save you some money and give your stone a fantastic look. In the trade, it's called commercial quality and the majority of the multi stone jewellery found in a retail shop is of this colour.
Colour Scale
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D
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E
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F
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G
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H
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I
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J
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K-M
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N-Z
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colourless
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near-colourless
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noticeable colour
Cut is an important factor when buying a diamond as it can relate to how well the diamond sparkles. At aspire we only sell good cut. The reson being as you move into the lower grades the diamonds not only sparkle less but can start to appear less round.
Cut grades were developed by the GIA (Gemmological Institute of America) during the 1940's and 1950's to enable independent labs to not only evaluate clarity and colour but to check the structure of the diamond itself. A round brilliant cut diamond will have 57 or 58 facets which are precisely cut and defined. While these are miniature in size they are extremely important as they govern how well the diamond is going to sparkle.
Cut Grades
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ExcellentThe excellent cut is one of the most valued and cherished cut grades. This cut reflects almost all the light that enters the diamond. In some cases when an excellent cut diamond is reflected such a large amount of light it can be upgraded to the rarer 'Ideal Cut'. -
Very GoodA very good cut will not reflect as much light back as an excellent cut however this grade will only loose a small percentage of light giving your stone a fantastic fire. These stones are a fantastic purchase and prove to be stunning value. -
GoodGood cut diamonds reflect most of the light that passes through them. Around 20% is lost but these stones are brilliantly priced and are substantially cheaper than a very good or excellent cut. Fair-The fair cut will still sparkle but when compared to any of the higher grades you will see a difference in the sparkle of the diamond. If buying a higher grade stone in a larger carat weight however you can find some very good priced diamonds. Still worth a look! -
FairA large proportion of light is not reflected back from these stones, the are often cut to unusual dimensions, causing them to have issues with dark tables. -
PoorMost of the light will not be reflected back out of the diamond. These stones are usually too deep or shallow to be able to reflect the light back out.
A diamond Certification is your confirmation of the specifications of your diamond. This means that the diamond has been sent to an independent laboratory and evaluated by a team of specialist gemmologists to determine the characteristics of each individual stone.
A diamond certification is important to verify the item you are buying is genuine. This will also be used by your insurance company to confirm the details of your purchase along with an Insurance Valuation (we provide this complimentary with your purchase).
There are a wide range of Certification Laboratories available to choose from depending on the amount of detail you would like. The most widely known is the GIA in part because they invented the diamond grading scale which is now used throughout the industry. Established in 1931 the GIA now laser inscribe the majority of their diamonds therefore using magnification you are able to read you certificate number off your diamonds for added security.
When deciding what certification to choose, think about what aspects are important to you, a GIA certification will carry a premium because it is the leading authority in diamond grading but will also give you a broad spectrum of information about your particular diamond. GIA diamonds also hold value well so are a perfect choice for those looking for an investment piece since they are highly regarded throughout the industry.
If you would like to get the most value for your purchase then consider a different certification such as AGI or GIE, this will allow you the peace of mind you need whilst also providing confirmation for your insurance company. For a lot of people having a diamond certificate is important but the overall appearance of the diamond is more important as this is what they will be looking at everyday.
Sample Certificate
We believe in working together within the diamond industry to ensure that our customers are provided with conflict free stones. All the companies we purchase from are members of The Kimberly Process or the Stop Blood Diamonds Initiative.
Conflict diamonds or blood diamonds are mined and sold, with the proceeds then used to fund conflict in war torn countries. This process has a huge impact on the local communities whose human rights are disregarded, they are often forced into diamond mining and rebel causes.
The Kimberly Process
The Kimberly Process began in May 2000 when diamond producing states in South -Africa met to discuss procedures to stop the circulation and sale of conflict diamonds. The result was the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) which documents the control of rough diamond production and trade. The KPCS has been in force since 2003 when participating countries began implementing the rules. The Kimberly Process represents 81 countries all meeting the requirements necessary to trade.
Under the terms of the KPCS all participating countries must put in place legislation to control the import, export and internal tracking whilst also only trading with other members of the Kimberly Process.
Stop Blood Diamonds
The Stop Blood Diamonds Initiative is set up to stop the exploitation of human rights within the diamond trade. They campaign against inhumane practices and aim to create awareness within the industry and the public. Stop Blood Diamonds is a helpful resource for potential buyers who require any additional information or have concerns regarding purchasing a diamond.
Hallmarking
The Hallmark is the stamp on the inside of the metal confirming it's purity. All precious metals sold in the UK require a Hallmark, our jewellery is Hallmarked at the Birmingham Assay Office whose logo is an anchor.
Your jewellery will have three stamps, a makers mark to show who made the piece, a metal purity mark (for example 18ct gold is 750) and the mark of the Assay Office that stamped it.
Hallmarking Faqs
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Do Aspire hallmark their own jewellery?
The short answer to this is no. All hallmarking is done independently. This then means that the consumer can feel at complete ease when buying an item of jewellery from us.
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How long has jewellery been hallmarked for?
The earliest record of a hallmark was in 1300 and appears to be one of the earliest forms of consumer protection.
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What should my hallmark say?
Your hallmark will have the company stamp (who it was made by) the metal stamp (for platinum 950) and also the symbol stamp for the assay office where it was hallmarked. (In our case this would be anchor which represents the Birmingham Assay Office)
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Where can I find out more?
Feel free to visit the Birmingham Assay office website: www.theassayoffice.co.uk
Jewellery Care
All fine jewellery is subject to daily wear and tear especially rings since we use our hands constantly during our day to day activities. If you have any concerns about how to care for your jewellery don't hesitate to contact us for advice.
Jewellery Care Guide
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Daily Wear
We recommend removing your jewellery when applying any hand creams, suncreams, soaps etc this will build up under the settings of the diamonds and dull the sparkle of the stones over time. This is also important if your jewellery is white gold as it may cause the rhodium plating to wear away quicker. Day to day damage is often caused by thinks such as wearing the jewellery in bed, grabbing metal door handles, and catching claws on clothing, this can cause scratches to the metal or loosen the setting around the diamond. Whilst these things cannot always be avoided it is always good to be aware.
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Activities
We advise not wearing your jewellery during manual activities such as gardening and when participating in sports which may cause damage to your jewellery. Activities which may allow dirt to get into the jewellery may impact the integrity of the settings and cause the metal to become scratched. Diamonds are extremely hard as a substance but when they have been cut and faceted they can easily be subject to chips if impacted. If you intend to go swimming, we suggest removing your jewellery as the chemicals may affect the metal and the water may cause your fingers to shrink slightly causing your rings to become loose.
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Storing your jewellery
To keep your jewellery safe when you are not wearing it we suggest storing it in its original box or a soft cloth bag. If you have a safe at home this would be ideal to store your items securely. If you need to transport your jewellery try to keep them individually wrapped to avoid tangling or scratching the pieces.
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Insure your jewellery
Always keep your valuables insured to cover yourself against theft, damage, and loss. This can be cover from a specific jewellery insurance company or covered on your house or contents insurance, always double check what is covered though as not all companies will cover for accidental damage for example. We will provide you with an Insurance Valuation along with you purchase so you can provide a copy to your chosen insurer. We also recommend a specialist jewellery insurance company should you prefer this option.
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Cleaning and polishing
We always recommend bringing your jewellery in to us for cleaning and polishing ideally once a year. This will allow us to remove any dirt from under the diamond settings, polish up the metal and check the settings around your diamonds to ensure they are all still tight. This service costs £25 and will take approx. a week. We require you to bring your receipt in with you to arrange a clean and a polish. If you would prefer to post the item to us, then be sure to include a copy of your receipt in the parcel and a cover note explaining that you would like to use this service. We advise using Royal mail special delivery and to ensure your items are all tracked and insured during transit.
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Accidental Damage
If you think you have damaged your jewellery get in touch with us so that we can provide you with the best advice. It is always best to rectify any problems as soon as you notice them, if possible return the item to us so that we can arrange for an accurate quote to repair from our workshop.
Aspire Diamonds
35 Warstone Lane,
Hockley, Birmingham B18 6JQ
T: +44 121 236 5799 sales@aspirediamonds.co.uk
Hockley, Birmingham B18 6JQ
T: +44 121 236 5799 sales@aspirediamonds.co.uk