What Is A Cushion Cut Diamond?

Have you come across the Cushion Cut diamond name during your jewelry search and wondered what the term is? It describes a diamond shape that has become popular in recent years, finding its way into the hands of lovers looking for vintage-looking engagement rings. According to a report by Knot, cushion cut diamonds account for over 7% of the most worn engagement ring styles, fourth place after the round cut, oval, and princess cut shapes. In this post, we look into this antique-like diamond shape's history, appearance, and value.

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The History Of Cushion Cut Diamonds

Cushion cuts diamonds described by various names, including old mine cuts, old miners, crushed ice, etc. The term originates from the 1700s to describe the diamond shapes cut by miners in Brazil. When new diamonds were discovered in South Africa, the Brazilian mines referred to them as the old mines. The current cushion cut diamonds combine the old mine look and modern brilliance.

The Characteristics Of Cushion Cut Diamonds

A cushion-cut diamond has a square-like shape, but instead of sharp corners, the corners are curved or rounded. They are less brilliant than the round-cut diamond, with 64 facets, and generally more extensive. It also reflects rainbow and white color well, making it a sight to behold whichever surroundings you are in. If you are going for a more important look without heaping on the karat size, this shape may be a good fit.

The Value Of Cushion Cut Diamonds

The price of cushion-cut diamonds depends on the number of carats in the gemstone. Carat is a measurement of the fragility of a gemstone. For example, a 0.5 carat pillow cut diamond may cost between $700 and $850. Likewise, a 2 carat cushion-cut diamond may cost you between $ 17,000 and $20,000. Other price determinants include color, cut parameters, and clarity. Cushion-cut diamonds have gained popularity due to their classical yet stylish look. Contact us and join many customers who wear their cushion-cut diamonds with style.

How To Clean Pearl Jewelry

Pearls are beautiful, delicate, and incredibly unique gemstones. Their shiny surface is what makes any pearl jewelry look special. Being a symbol of purity, pearls need extra attention and maintenance.

The more care you are willing to give them, the longer your pearls will maintain natural luster and make you look and feel radiant regardless of the occasion.

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Steps To Clean Pearl Jewelry

Unless you clean your pearl jewelry properly, the luster is likely to disappear with time. Here is how to prevent it.

1) Dry wiping - clean pearls with a soft cloth each time you take them off. This can remove the dirt, debris, and oils that they may have encountered during the day.

2) Damp cleaning - if a dry cloth can't remove the dirt off your pearls, mix lukewarm water with mild dish soap, dip the cloth in the solution, and wipe your jewelry. Never submerge your pearl necklace, bracelet, or ring in the water. It could damage various elements of the jewelry.

3) Air drying - after cleaning the jewelry, allow it to air dry before storing it in a box.

Take your pearl bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and other jewelry to a professional jeweler at least once a year. The expert can check the integrity of threads and arrange professional cleaning.

How To Care For Pearl Jewelry

Pearls are organic gemstones. They are highly vulnerable to acid and dry air. To prevent damage, you need to:

1) Always use perfume, cosmetics, and hairspray BEFORE putting on your pearls.

2) If you accidentally spill something acidic on your pearls, wipe them immediately, air dry.

3) Since pearls are easy to scratch, make sure the storage box is lined with soft materials.

4) Clean pearls regularly.

5) Wear your pearls regularly to keep them from drying out.

If you take good care of your pearl jewelry, it will keep you happy for many years. To learn more jewelry maintenance tips and tricks, contact us at any convenient time.

A Guide To 1920s Engagement Rings

The "Roaring Twenties" brought about many changes for society. Jazz music became extremely popular. Cocktail parties were all the rage. New fashion trends emerged, including a popular engagement ring style, the Art Deco. The Art Deco style spanned from 1920 through the beginning of the 1930s. Art Deco engagement rings were inspired by the modernist decorative style of the 1920s.

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Edwardian Engagement Rings Vs. Art Deco Engagement Rings

A predecessor to the Art Deco style was the Edwardian style of jewelry. This style influenced some of the choices made during the Art Deco reign. Platinum and diamonds were popular choices in both styles when it came to rings. Where they differ from the earlier style, however, is in the overall structural design. Edwardian style rings had curvy, nature-based motifs, while the Art Deco went for a more geometric shape.

What Is An Art Deco Engagement Ring?

Art Deco rings are known for their geometric patterns, stone colour and lots of jewels. Popular ring trends from the Art Deco period include:

1) A platinum or white gold setting

2) Backdrop of white diamonds

3) Brightly coloured gems

4) Geometric shapes like octagons and hexagons

5) Color contrasts in stones

6) Intricate details

7) Modernist touches

8) Asian decorative motifs

9) Halo ring setting

Popular centrepiece stones included cushion, emerald, Asher, and other old-European cut stones. The popular platinum band and setting made it easier to put beautiful and intricate details into the rings. Platinum, by nature, is more malleable than other materials used for rings, and this made it easier to get the iconic and intricate markings.

Are 1920s Engagement Rings Popular?

Just because the Art Deco decade is over, that doesn't mean you still can't enjoy it. Today, the art deco trend is still extremely popular. Modern ring making has borrowed many of the techniques from the period, including unconventional gemstones. Antique 1920s engagement rings are making a huge comeback and modern rings are even taking some inspiration from the Art Deco trends. If you're looking to make a statement with your engagement rings, consider looking at an Art Deco variety.

Where To Find 1920s Engagement Rings?

If you are interested in finding authentic 1920s engagement rings, it can sometimes be tricky since these types of rings are not easy to find anymore. But do not worry, Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques has an amazing collection of 1920s engagement rings. Our art deco experts can help you find the perfect 1920s engagement ring. To see our stunning collection, click here or contact us today to set up an appointment to visit our Toronto location!