If you have a birthday this month you are probably well aware that your birthstone is one of the most valued gems Diamond. A Diamond is a solid form of carbon with a diamond cubic crystal structure. At room temperature and pressure it is metastable and graphite is the stable form, but diamond almost never converts to graphite. It has the highest hardness on Moh’s scale and this is why diamonds have often been used to cut metals hence where “diamond cut ” comes from.
When valuing a diamond we use four different categories, know as the 4Cs. These are
I am sure you all find all the different grading options confusing but that is why your local association of fine jewellers member is on hand to help. All our trained members and their staff are available to show you the many different options and explain clearly to you the different scales.
As diamonds last forever they have been synonyms with everlasting love. This is where the tradition of giving a diamond ring as an engagement ring came from. I am sure you are all familiar with the saying “A diamond is forever”
Diamonds are the birthstone for April and the anniversary stone for a 60th wedding anniversary so if you have either to buy for this year call into your local jeweller from the Association to see their extensive collection of diamonds across their many jewellery lines.
Source : Association of Fine Jewellers
The diamond will be up for sale at Sotheby’s Magnificant Jewels and Noble Jewels auction in Geneva on May 15, after having remained in the same family for over three centuries.
The pear-shaped 6.16ct fancy blue stone was originally given to Queen Elisabeth Farnese of Spain as a wedding gift following her marriage to King Philip V in 1714. The stone has since been passed down through four royal families in Europe: Spain, France, Italy and Austria and was kept a closely guarded secret.
The diamond is said to originate from the Golconda mines of India and has an estimate of 3.5 - 5 million Swiss Francs (£2.6m- £3.7m).
“It is difficult to put into words the excitement of holding between thumb and forefinger a gem discovered centuries ago, knowing it originated in the legendary Golconda diamond mines of India,” said David Bennett, chair of Sotheby’s international jewellery division. “This stone has witnessed 300 years of European history, and in colour is reminiscent of historic Golconda blue gems such as the Hope Diamond.”
The Farnese Blue will be exhibited at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong, London, New York, Signapore and Taipei, before coming to Geneva for the auction.
This beautiful stone gets it name from “Sea Water ” which is of course what Aqua Marine means when translated. The beautiful hues of this stone reflect the beautiful sea colours. It varies in colour from blue to green. The most valuable Aquamarines are clear with blueish green hues just like the Caribbean sea.
There is a myth where it was believed that they were part of a mermaids tale and this is why there is such a strong link between it and sailors. It was traditionally said to calm waves and protect sailors from seasickness. It was also thought to be a stone of courage and often was thought to give the wearer confidence especially if speaking in public.
Not only is it the birthstone for March it is also the 19th wedding anniversary stone and is thought to enhance the happiness of marriages .
It is important to care for your Aquamarine as Its color fades to white when exposed to sunlight or is subjected to heat treatment, though the color returns with irradiation. It is from the Beryl family which is the same family as Emerald. although it is a durable gemstone with a Mohs Scale reading of 7.5-8 but it needs treated with care to protect it against scratching and hard knocks. Warm soapy water is always a safe cleaning method for aquamarine. Cleaning by ultrasonic and steam cleaners is also an option for Aquamarine however if in doubt do ask your Association of Fine Jewellers member as they will be happy to advise you.
With thanks to the Association of Fine Jewellers (www.associationoffinejewellers.ie)
Congratulations to the Winner of our Wedding Ring Competition Neil Quinn! Neil has won a €1,000- Wedding Ring Voucher to use instore!
As a thank you to everyone who entered you can avail of a 10% Wedding Ring Discount Voucher by registering for it here : http://www.wehrlybros.ie/
**Please note by registering you are not signing up for any further emails and we will not use your email address for any further correspondence!**
Thank you to Sligo Rovers' David Cawley for picking the winner!
Congratulations to David Cawley, Sligo Rovers F.C March Player of the Month!
We were delighted to present him with a Bulova Precisionist watch.
