Jewellery Matters

JEWELLERY MATTERS

BY ADRIAN SCHULZ, DIAMONDS OF DISTINCTION

A girl’s best friend

Diamonds, diamonds, diamonds! Undoubtedly the most famous of all gemstones, the glitz and glamour surrounding this magical mineral are second to none. And while its allure is beyond question, obtaining one of these dazzling specimens can often lead to more confusion than it should.

One of the reasons for this in the new millennium marketplace, is availability. The sheer amount of diamond ‘dealers’ around these days, particularly online, are enough to make a seasoned diamond connoisseur shudder.

So how to sort fact from fallacy? There are two main areas to consider. The first is personal and regards ethics. We are probably all aware by now of the supply chain regarding diamonds used to fund conflicts. In 2003, the United Nations introduced the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), to which buyers could become signatories. These signatories are the merchants that reputable Jewellers purchase their goods from, which are then guaranteed to come from legitimate channels.

The second area of confusion is the actual quality of a diamond. For those not familiar, the four C’s of diamonds are: Colour, Clarity, Carat and Cut. In recent times, the latter has become the main focus with ‘branded’, specially named cuts becoming more and more prevalent. Generally speaking, the majority of these are simply trademarked names for the same thing, i.e. a diamond with an excellent cut, excellent polish and excellent symmetry. A stone like this is simply known as a triple EX. Ask your Jeweller for some triple EX diamonds to see the difference.

The four C’s of diamonds are: Colour, Clarity, Carat and Cut. In recent times, the latter has become the main focus with ‘branded’, specially named cuts becoming more and more prevalent.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Adrian Schulz, owner operator of Diamonds of Distinction in Buderim, is a third generation, award winning Master Jeweller and Designer with 25 years of experience in the design and manufacture of Fine Jewellery. Trained by his father, a German trained Master Goldsmith, he has a passion for creating unique and exquisite designs that feature a point of interest for the wearer and admirer alike.

DIAMONDS OF DISTINCTION

Exclusive Sunshine Coast Stockist of Pink Kimberley™ Argyle Diamonds

Manufacturing Master Jeweller and Designer Wedding / Engagement Ring Specialist Unique, Custom Handcrafted Designs Remodelling and Restorations Quality Repairs Certified Diamond and Gem Stone Stockist

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP. MANUFACTURING MASTER JEWELLER AND DESIGNER, ADRIAN SCHULZ. 29 Main Street (Middy’s), Buderim • (07) 5445 5709 info@diamondsofdistinction.com.au www.diamondsofdistinction.com.au