The Rare and Elegant Yellow Diamond of the Argyle Mines

Often white or clear diamonds are known to be more valuable but there has been a misconception about colored diamonds. To many people these diamonds are more valuable than the white diamonds because of the intense color. The Kimberly Octahedron, which is 616 carats, is considered one of the largest and most valuable colored diamonds in the world.

Kimberley Octahedron

Since these colored diamonds are very rare, many jewelers may never see one at all. In most cases yellow diamonds have been treated. Among 100 of the largest diamonds taken from a sample, thirty will be yellow, one will be a fancy yellow, and one will be treated.  

Among the largest and most rare colored diamonds, are those that originate from the Argyle Mine in Australia.

http://www.yellowdiamonds.co.uk/

Pink Diamond could be worth $15 million at auction

A purple-pink 10 carat diamond could fetch up to $15 million when it goes up for Magnificent Jewels auction in April 12.
The 10.09 Fancy Vivid cushion-cut is expected to be the highlight of the auction being held next month in New York.

Renowned fine art auctioneers Christie's have reported that prices for large pink diamonds have soared recently, with four pink diamonds going for over $1 million per carat since late 2009.

Increasing demand and rarity have driven prices,  making pink diamonds the most expensive colored diamonds currently on the market.

"Collector demand for large coloured diamonds have never been stronger, especially where pink diamonds of this size and quality are concerned," affirmed Rahul Kadakia, head of jewelry at Christie's in New York.

Christie's set a per-carat record in December 2009 for any diamond at auction when the Vivid Pink 5-carat cushion cut diaond sold for over $2.1 million per carat in Hong Kong.

The auction house disclosed that less than 10% of all pink diamonds mined weigh over .20 carats, and even fewer exhibited the deep purple-pink saturation and brilliance as the Fancy Vivid to be auctioned.

The 10.09 carat Fancy Vivid had an richer, deeper hue than a 6.89 carat Fancy Vivid purple-pink diamond that sold for $6.9 million in December. "I have never seen such vivid color in a stone of this size," said Kadakia.

There are only a few mines in the world that produce rough pink diamonds. According to Christie's, out of those stones that are cut an polished, only 1 in about 10 million diamonds have color pure enough to be graded Fancy Vivid.

Homeless Man Receives Diamonds with Change

In Pontiac, Michigan, A homeless man in southeast Michigan received not only bits of change but also a gold ring laced with diamonds.  

The homeless man, Michael Secaur, was panhandling at an intersection in Pontiac on Monday when a woman, who pulled up to give him change may have accidentally given him the gold ring.

The homeless man was thinking about pawning the ring but he though he would only receive $20 to $50 for it so he decided that it would be worth more for the woman to have it.

The homeless man states that he will give it back to the woman if he saw her again, but for now he has the ring in a safety deposit box in the shelter he is staying at.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41783645/ns/us_news-wonderful_world/

The World's Most Expensive Purse

Valued at $3.8 million, the "1001 Nights Diamond Purse" has been officially crowned by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's most expensive purse.

The bag is encrusted with 4,517 diamonds, comprised of 105 yellow, 56 pink, and 4,365 colorless diamonds. The total carat weight of those diamonds on the heart-shaped bag come out to a grand total of 381.92 carats.

It took 10 artisans 1,100 hours to handcraft and create the purse from 18-carat gold over a period of 4 months

The 1001 Nights Diamond Purse was created by Pascal Mouawad, co-guardian of the House of Mouawad founded in 1890. "The Mouaward 1001 Nights Diamond Purse is designed to mesmerize with its lavish attention to detail and elaborate workmaship incorporating thousands of diamonds," said the Dubai-based designer.

Mouawad and the jewelry design house have created several objects heavily encrusted in diamonds before, including the Very Sexy Fantasy Bra for Victoria's Secret.

The diamond purse sat on display at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition over the weekend of February 20.

All That Glitters Exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum

This exhibit is guaranteed to be exciting and interesting with a stunning selection of spectacular natural mineral crystals, exquisite jewelry, and works of art.

On display are California’s own treasures including: benitoite, gold, kunzite and morganite.

See objects on display for the first time ever and see stunning gems and jewels on loan from major U.S. museums including: The Smithsonian, The American Museum of Natural History, The Newark Museum of Decorating Art, Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and Harvard University Mineralogical Museum

This exhibit is to last from May 15, 2010 through April 8, 2012 but please check with the San Diego Natural History Museum for Admission and Dates

http://www.sdnhm.org/exhibits/allthatglitters/

Demand for Diamonds brings Good News to Petra

Diamond prices have recovered beyond 2008 pre-recession levels thanks to a limited supply, a rebound demand in Western countries, and a zealous market in the growing middle classes of India and China.

Generally speaking, this bit of good news benefits diamond miners; but particularly Petra, the largest pure play listed diamond miner, makes one of the largest gains as a result of rising diamond prices.

Somewhere between 80% - 90% of the world production of diamonds is used for jewelry, as measured by value. Rough diamonds worth around $10 billion per year get turned into reail jewelry sales worth six or seven times as much.

After several acquisitions, Petra now has seven producing mines. Six of those are in South Africa, of which Petra (in cooperation with Black Empowerment partners) owns between 70% - 74% of each mine. Petra has a 75% interest in its seventh mine in Tanzania.

The Cullinan mine brought 80% of the half year's output of 582 thousand carats, dominating in production out of all the mines.

Source: Yahoo!

Argyle Pink Diamonds Debut in Mumbai

The famous argyle pink diamonds debuted at the Nirav Modi salon in Mumbai. The debut featured a signature piece, The Shalimar Ring, which features 4.86 Carats of Argyle pink diamonds with a 1.25 carat pink round diamond centerpiece. The ring is valued at approximately $2 million.

http://www.rapnet.com/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=34433&ArticleTitle=Argyle+Pink+Diamonds+Debut+at+Nirav+Modi+in+Mumbai 

A New Jewelry Collection That Combines Classic and Modern Design

http://shop.ivankatrumpcollection.com/

A new jewelry collection that combines heirloom and modern design is released in Toronto’s flagship jewelry store, Birk’s on Bloor. This new line of Jewelry labeled, “The Ivanka Trump Collection,” features tassels, Deco-inspired diamonds, black onyx, white agate, mother of pearl and rose gold. This collection is priced to range from $500.00 up to $24,000.00.

http://www.rapnet.com/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=34294&ArticleTitle=Ivanka+Trump+Jewelry+Now+Available+at+Toronto+Birks

Argyle Diamond Mind Celebrates 25th Anniversary with a Special Limited Edition pendant

http://www.argylediamonds.com.au/

Rio Tinto’s Argyle Pink Diamonds is celebrating 25 years with a special limited edition Argyle Pink Diamond “O” pendant with a limited production of 100.

The pendant holds more than 1 carat of argyle pink diamonds and set in 18-karat rose gold. The “O” is mounted on a diamond set on an 18 karat white gold link chain, with each diamond laser inscribed with its own limited edition number. Each pendant will also bear its own certificate of authenticity.

http://www.rapnet.com/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=34317&ArticleTitle=Argyle+Pink+Diamonds+Celebrates+25+Years+with+Special+Pendant

Letseng Mine Gains Record Prices in 4th Quarter

Diamonds of the Letseng Mines
(http://www.letsengdiamonds.co.ls/)

Gem diamonds have received a 54% sales increase from its Letseng mine during the 4^th quarter of 2010. Overall sales from the mine increased by 62% to $80.7 million

Included in the sales were three exceptional white rough diamonds of 196 carats, 184 carats and 116 carats which sold for $28.5 million, or $57,427 per carat, while a 4.68 carat blue sold for a $725,400, or $155,000 per carat. A total 48 stones sold for more than $20,000 per carat.

Read the full article @ http://www.rapnet.com/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=34244&ArticleTitle=Let%c5%a1eng+Mine+Achieves+Record+Prices+in+4Q

eLearning Course for Pearls offered by the GIA

The gemological institute of America is offering a new distance learning course in pearl knowledge and skills. Upon completion of the course a GIA certificate of completion.

The distance learning course offers tools to instruct students on how to distinguish various types of pearls and recognize treatments and imitations.

http://www.gia.edu/educational-programs/index.html

Quick and Easy Steps to Cleaning Diamonds to Renew Shine and Brilliance

Rings of any size and shape are susceptible to collect grime, dirt and other debris that we encounter in our daily lives. For diamonds to stay in magnificent condition there must be routine maintenance to ensure that the luster is never sheltered by a dull veil. Do clean with discretion as some jewelry may have certain finishes that can be difficult to clean if not handled carefully.

When handling your jewelry to be cleaned be careful to safeguard your cleaning area from losing any stones or fittings as these get loose with age and wear. For delicate jewelry you will use a damp and soft cloth made from non-abrasive material. For a more thorough cleaning you can use mild soap and warm water while gently brushing into the grooves and crevices with a soft bristled took brush or cosmetic brush.

If you find your jewelry to be very dirty you can use ammonia and a soft bristled brush. This method is often a safer approach for diamonds and all faceted colored stones except those such as emerald that might be filled with oil. Do not attempt to use ammonia for organic gems such as pearls or any jewelry that may have foil-back stones or stones that may be glued into the mountings. If you are unsure we recommend going to a professional.

For more advice on cleaning please check out:

http://www.appraisers.org/Consumer/ConsumerLibrary/JewelryCleaning.aspx  

How the cut of your diamond may profile your personality

We’ve all heard the saying, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend”, and so perhaps the best friend can tell us about the girl. After reading this article you may find that ring’s description charts your personality and style word for word, while others, like reading a fortune cookie, may find that these descriptions are so general that they could fit anyone’s wants and perception of themselves. Whichever the case it’s always intriguing what our possessions may tell about us. Here are a few examples:



The Oval Engagement Ring. You indulge and want the most extravagant of luxuries. What this says about your relationship: Together you and your partner are in a very involved codependent relationship. Your wedding: Particular attention to detail and polished, colorful yet classy.

The Round Engagement Ring. You’re traditional and your style is simple yet attractive. What this ring says about your relationship: You’re marrying your best friend, the person who shares the small stuff as well as the large and who knows how to brighten your mood on a rainy day. Your wedding: Classic style that is romantic and planned to perfection.

The Emerald Cut Ring. You’re sophisticated and a socialite, a center of attention. What this ring says about your relationship: In your partner’s eyes, time slows down and you become an idol. Your wedding: It is the main event of the year and guaranteed to be talked about by all of your friends.

The Cushion Cut Ring. You’re unique, independent and set apart from the rest. What this ring says about your relationship: Close but spacious where you can stand on your own in times you want to get away. Your wedding: It is a reflection of your independence; it holds classiness while being distinctive.

For the full detailed list visit:

http://lifestyle.msn.com/relationships/staticslideshowtkt.aspx?cp-documentid=26418663&gt1=32092

A Spectacular Wedding Gift for the Royal Couple

Prince William, 28 and Kate Middleton, 29

Prince William and Kate Middleton may be receiving an extraordinary wedding gift from billionaires located in Saudi Arabia. The set of 301 colored diamonds is valued at $93.3 million dollars and were supposed to have been a wedding gift for Princess Diana and Prince Charles in 1981. These gems were to be purchased in the past by the Saudi Arabian Royal Family, but gem dealer Eddy Elzas declined to finalize the sale.

Although the offer to purchase these diamonds in the past was declined, it has been rumored that Elzas is now looking to sell this luxurious set in the condition that it goes to the Royal newlyweds.   

Special Event in San Diego for Showcasing and Buying Jewelry and Gold

Click Ad For Directions

This week, from the 8^th through the 11^th, Golden Treasures Jewelers in Solana Beach will be hosting a Special Buying Event for scrap gold and jewelry. The specialized team of gemologists will also have a fully equipped gemological laboratory, giving complimentary appraisals for jewelry and precious metals such as gold, platinum, and silver.

These gemologists have a special need for:
• Diamonds 1 carat and over,
• Signed jewelry, Tiffany, Cartier, Van Cleef, Graff, Lacloche, Oscar Heyman, etc.
• Vintage period jewelry: Art Deco, Retro, Victorian, Important
• Complicated watches: Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantine, Breguet, Audemars Piguet, Rolex, etc.
• All US gold coins. All US silver coins (dated 1965 and before)
• Gold in any form, new used or broken.

The funny thing is, many people may have some of these valuable items without even knowing it!

Come see this event for yourself:
Golden Treasures Jewelers

124 S. Solana Hills Dr

Solana Beach, CA 92075

858-481-7729

Follow Golden Treasures on Twitter

RSVP on Facebook

Duchess of Windsor's Jewels Fetches $12.5 Million in Auction

Jewelry once owned by Wallis Simpson, former Duchess of Windsor, went on the auction block and sold for $12.5 million late Tuesday in London. The entire collection included 20 brooches, bracelets and other gems. Most noted items included an onyx and diamond Cartier bracelet in the shape of a panther along with a jewel-encrusted flamingo clip and a heart shaped brooch.

The emerald eyed panther bracelet alone sold for a surprisingly $7 million, the highest price ever received at auction.

This collection of jewelry was last sold in 1987 for $50 million, a record for a jewelry collection.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/40443226

Jeweling Buying up 22% this Thanksgiving Weekend

More consumers bought jewelry during this thanksgiving holiday weekend that last year. A survey conducted by BLGresearch reported that 14.3% of shoppers bought jewelry during this holiday weekend in comparison to last year’s 11.7%.

Total spending, online and physical stores, grew 9% or $45 billion, averaging $365 spending per shopper.  

http://www.rapnet.com/News/NewsItem.aspx?Articleid=33540

Engagement Ring of Ponzi Schemer Madoff Sold on Auction Block

Bernard Madoff's once lavish lifestyle has been selling off at auction at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers.  Reported sales estimated at $2 million dollars including luxury items such as paintings, a grand piano, designer clothes and personalized slippers. The most significant item on the block was the 10.54 Carat emerald cut engagement ring once owned by Madoff and his wife Ruth. The anonymous bidder paid $550,000

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/40169595/ns/today/

World Jeweler's Insurer, Jewelers Mutual, earns A+ Superior Rating from A.M. Best

Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company  earned an A+ Superior rating from A.M. Best for the 24th consecutive year. The company stated that for the jewelry industry and its consumers, this rating attests to the financial strength and security of Jewelers Mutual.

The A.M. Best rating validates the company's reputation specializing in jewelry insurance and proves consistent profitability. Financial stability has allowed Jewelers Mutual to specialize in jewelry and serve the jewelry industry for nearly 100 years.

"It is truly an honor to earn an A+ Superior rating and we're proud to have done so for 24 years," says Darwin Copeman, chief executive of Jewelers Mutual. "This rating further assures our prospective and current policyholders that we are equipped to pay their claims and that they can count on us now and in the future."

Source: Rapaport

Prince William Gives Kate Middleton Princess Diana’s 18 Carat Engagement Ring

Sapphire Diamond Engagement Ring

The future king of England recently announced his recent engagement to long-time girlfriend and now fiancée,’ Kate Middleton. The wedding will take place in the spring or summer of 2011. It is already being hailed as the biggest wedding since Charles and Diana’s wedding 30 years prior.

Prince William told the press, “It’s very special to me. As Kate’s very special to me now, it was right to put the two together.”

This engagement ring, once owned by his mother Princess Diana, is an extravagant piece:  baring an oval blue sapphire weighing 18 carats and surrounded by 14 small diamonds in an elegant cluster setting.

Sell your diamonds to us at: http://worldjeweler.com/sell-a-diamond.html