Tom Luxsox Coins

Certified Rainbow

Shenoa And Co Provides Basic Information About The 4 C's Of Diamonds

The following section contains all the information you need in order to wisely select a quality diamond. Learn a how diamonds are professionally graded for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight:

Choosing a Diamond

Before you buy a diamond engagement ring, take time to really understand the quality factors known as the 4Cs--color, clarity, cut, carat-so you feel comfortable juggling them to get just the right combination for you. Knowing how to juggle the 4Cs can enable you to achieve a high-budget look at a reasonable price. Shenoa and Company

"Unbreakable","Unalterable",and "Untamed" were some of the earliest words used to describe the world's most precious gemstone: The Diamond. The everlasting properties of these remarkable natural-occurring gems are what make them the top choice for engagement rings. Buying an engagement ring is an important event for you and your fiance, and choosing the right diamond is key. Should you go for a larger diamond or choose a smaller stone of higher quality? Is color an important consideration? How does the cut affect the stone? Is a solitaire diamond best, or is a ring with sidestones a better choice?

At Shenoa and Co, strives to provide quality diamonds that can be cherish for a lifetime.

Become familiar with how diamonds are graded for quality. The following section contains all the information you need in order to wisely select a quality diamond.

Being familiar with the 4Cs can enable you to achieve a high-budget look at a reasonable price.

CUT

The first and most important thing to look for when selecting a diamond is the cut. Not to be confused with "Shape"(ie. Round, Square, Oval etc.), Cut determines a diamond's brilliance. A rough diamond is cut and polished until the best look is achieved. The Ideal Cut is one that will reflect the maximum amount of light entering the diamond and cause that brilliant sparkle that diamonds are known for. This cut is rare, and the cost of a diamond with an ideal cut will be significantly higher. Some people prefer to buy a larger diamond regardless of it's cut. Other shoppers may simply want a diamond with the best color. These differing factors partly explain why not all diamonds are an ideal cut. Many gemologists consider cut the most important diamond characteristic because even if a diamond has perfect color and clarity, a diamond with a poor cut will have dulled brilliance. The width and depth have the greatest effect on how light travels within the diamond, and how it exits in the form of brilliance. Each facet should be precisely cut while maintaining good symmetry and polish of the diamond. Shenoa And Co

If a Diamond is cut..

Too Deep: Light entering from the top escapes out the sides causing the diamond to appear dark and dull.

Too Shallow: Light entering from the top is lost out the bottom causing the diamond to lose brilliance.

Ideal: Light will enter the diamond directly from the top and bounce effectively off of each facet within the diamond then return back through the top creating a brilliant sparkling effect.

Consider the various Cut Grades: Shenoa and Company

Ideal Cut: Maximum light reflection, superior proportions, showcases the true beauty of a diamond, very rare, expensive.

Excellent Cut: Higher grade with great symmetry and light reflection, more available than ideal cut and less expensive.

Very Good Cut: The most common cut, reflects slightly less light then the EX (Excellent) Cut, moderately priced.

Fair Cut: A step lower than the VG (Very Good) Cut, slightly below-average brightness, most affordable cut.

Poor Cut: These diamonds are highly undesirable due to their dark appearance and low value.

*Grading certificates will show the key diamond measurements in relation to cut as well as other important information.

Once you have chosen a cut grade that fits your preference and your budget, the most difficult selection criteria is done. Let's make the next selection: Color.

COLOR

The best color for a diamond is NO color. A totally colorless or "high-color" diamond best allows white light to pass effortlessly through it and be dispersed as rainbows of color known as "fire". While many diamonds may appear colorless to the untrained eye, the majority contain very slight traces of yellow and brown tones. The intensity of these added hues in a diamond affect their value. When you look at them side by side with a jeweler, you can appreciate the simple beauty of a stone that has no underlying hue. In regards to color you may find a diamond that visually appears white enough though it may have a very slight yellow hue with a "near-colorless" grade. This alone can bring down the price of your diamond purchase significantly. A G.I.A. Certificate will guarantee your diamond's color quality.

*By rare accidents of nature, such as impurities or structural defects diamonds may occur in twelve other colors which are called Fancies. They are graded based on the characteristics of the color, such as the tone and saturation of it's hue. They are extremely rare (ie. Red Diamonds) and can be quite expensive.

CLARITY

Forming under high-pressure conditions deep within the Earth, Diamonds rarely escape without some minor additives. These are called inclusions. They are tiny impurities or blemishes found within a diamond that may or may not affect it's light-reflecting abilities and durability. Another thing they affect is value. A diamond's Clarity is measured as the degree to which a diamond is free from these natural imperfections. The fewer the inclusions the rarer the stone. Diamonds are inspected for clarity at 10x magnification. Typical inclusions are: clouds, feathers, crystals or minerals, and cavities to name a few. Blemishes, which are present on the surface, can be polish lines, scratches, chips, and pits.

Most diamonds contain very tiny natural birthmarks known as inclusions. Inclusions interfere with the passage of light through the diamond and therefore effects the diamond's brilliance. Most inclusions require magnification to become visible. The fewer the inclusions the rarer the stone. The degree to which a diamond is free from these imperfections will determine the Clarity of the gem.

FL, IF - Flawless: No internal or external flaws. Internally

Flawless: No internal flaws. Very rare and beautiful diamonds.

VVS1, VVS2 - Very, Very Slightly Included: Very difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification. An excellent quality diamond.

VS1, VS2 - Very Slightly Included: Inclusions are not typically visible to the unaided eye. Less expensive than the
VVS1 or VVS2 grades.

SI1, SI2 - Slightly Included: Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification, and may be visible with the unaided eye. A good diamond value.

I1, I2, I3 - Included: Shenoa does not carry diamonds of I-grade clarity.

CARAT

Cost can be the most important aspect of your diamond purchase. Diamonds are priced by the PER CARAT basis. There are weight categories that will effect the price per carat for a specific quality diamond. As weight category increases so will price per carat. The weight categories are:
.70 - .89ct
.90 - .99 ct
1.00 - 1.49 ct
1.50 - 1.99 ct
2.00 - 2.99 ct

SHAPE

It's fairly common to confuse a diamond's cut with its shape. The cut describes a diamond's light performance, dimensions and finish. Shape refers to the overall outline of the diamond when viewed from the top. Round is far and away the most popular diamond shape, followed by squared shapes such as princess, Asscher, and emerald.

CERTIFICATES: Shenoa and Company

A Diamond Certificate is a document issued by a laboratory describing a diamond or jewelry product. There are various laboratories that grade gems and jewelry. A Diamond Certificate or report issues a "grade" indicating the physical properties of the Diamond "at the time of evaluation". A certificate is a document which retains its value over a long period of time, assuming the Diamond does not chip or is not otherwise altered.

There are various Laboratories that grade diamonds. The diamonds that are graded are popularly called "certified" or "certified diamonds", while actually these diamonds should be referred to as being accompanied by a grading report, or quality report. Shenoa and Company sells diamonds that come with grading reports from the Gemological Institute of America, one of the most well known, as well as the Laboratories below:

GIA -Gemological Institute of America, AGS- American Gem Society, IGI - International, Gemological Institute, EGL - European Gemological Laboratory, HRD -Antwerp Diamond High Council, NGL - National Gemological Laboratories, PGS - Professional Gem Sciences

Shenoa and Co. employs GIA graduate gemologists to find and analyze jewelry that passes through it's inventory.

About the Author

George David

Rainbow $10 Rainbow

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Apron by CafePress $22 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Apron Great in the kitchen or at the BBQ, our mid-length apron provides great coverage to help keep spills and splatters off your clothes. Makes a great gift for gourmets or grill-masters. Ties at neck and waist. Two center-stitched bottom compartment pouches f

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Cap by CafePress $17 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Cap . Our adjustable, 100% brushed cotton Cap is unstructured and an ideal way to beat the heat. Wear it anytime you want to keep the sun off or cover up a bad hair day. It features a sturdy low profile brim, sweatband, and adjustable closure, as well as Pre

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Fitted T-Shirt by CafePress $26.5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Fitted T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt For stylish weekend comfort anytime, guys will want to live in our Fitted T. Made of ultra-fine, combed ring-spun cotton, that gets softer with each washing. Lightweight for summer comfort or winter layering. Grab attention with this vintage fit that love

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Baseball Jersey by CafePress $32.5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Baseball Jersey Our 100% cotton Baseball Jersey is a sporty hit with both men and women whether you're in the game or just looking the part in great run-around casual-wear. Choose red, blue or black sleeves. 6.1 oz. 100% heavyweight cotton. Standard f

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Button Gay 2.25 Button by CafePress $4 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay 2.25 Button Express yourself Pin on our attention-grabbing buttons. It's a great way to wear and share what's on your mind. Add them to a fun banner or fabric for a unique decorating twist. Collect 'em, trade 'em. 2.25 inch diameter. Metal she

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Hooded Sweatshirt by CafePress $45 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Hooded Sweatshirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The hoodie: the perfect utilitarian piece of clothing. Leave your hat and scarf at home Stay warm and comfy in your Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt. This hoodie is constructed with a cotton/polyester blend - both durable and comfortable.Heavyweight 90

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Jr. Hoodie by CafePress $37 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Jr. Hoodie A fashion must that defines today39;s hip style, our Jr. Hoodie is a body-loving curve-hugger. From American Apparel, get into baby soft 100% super fine-combed cotton fleece. Front zipper, hood and pockets to keep the chill off. Pre-washed 7.2

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Long Sleeve T-Shirt by CafePress $32.5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Long Sleeve T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The most comfortable t-shirt ever Our 100% cotton, Hanes Beefy-T is preshrunk, durable and guaranteed. 6.1 oz. 100% luxuriously soft ring spun cotton . Standard fit. Ribbed sleeve cuffs.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Men's Sleeveless Tee by CafePress $22 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Men's Sleeveless Tee Beat the summer heat or workout in comfort. Our 100% cotton sleeveless tee from Anvil is what to wear when you want to go casually cool.6.1 oz. 100% cotton. Standard fit.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Mini Button by CafePress $3 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Mini Button Add fun accents to jackets, backpacks, or mix 'n match our Mini Buttons. Our Mini Buttons are the perfect size for trading and collecting. Pin 'em on1 inch diameter. Metal shell. Mylar/UV protecting cover. Pinned metal back

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Throw Pillow by CafePress $20 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Throw Pillow Add stylish fun to any room with our roomy Throw Pillow. It measures a sprawling 18 X 18 with an 11 X 11 image area so you can lounge in comfort. It's made of ultra-soft brushed twill with a sturdy canvas image area. Ships with pil

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Rectangle Magnet by CafePress $5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Rectangle Magnet Add instant style to lockers, dorm rooms, workspace or the fridge while keeping your notes and reminders in view with an attention-grabbing Rectangle Magnet. Measures 2.125 x 3.125. Metal shell. Mylar/UV protecting cover.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Sticker Bumper Gay Bumper Sticker by CafePress $5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Bumper Sticker Tell the world how you feel Our bumper stickers are perfect for expressing yourself while cruising down the highway or just for posting on the wall. Measures 10 x 3. Printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks -

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Rectangle Sticker by CafePress $5 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Rectangle Sticker Our stickers are printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks 150; meaning no fading in the sun or bleeding in the rain. Measures 3 x 5. Printed on durable 4mil vinyl.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Tote Bag by CafePress $21 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Tote Bag Our 100% cotton canvas tote bags have plenty of room to carry everything you need when you are on the go. They include a bottom gusset and extra long handles for easy carrying. 10 oz heavyweight natural canvas fabric. Full side and bot

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Women's Tank Top by CafePress $22 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Women's Tank Top Sporty and sexy, wear our women's tank top to beat the summer heat or workout in cool comfort. Our tank top is made of 100% combed ring spun cotton, and cut for a close, fashionable fit. Neck and armhole are carefully shaped to conceal a bra.6.1 o

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Zip Hoodie dark by CafePress $45 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Zip Hoodie dark Zip around town in style with this zip-up hooded sweatshirt. Made of soft fleece, it keeps you and anyone next to you toasty. Yet it's rugged enough for impromptu games of touch football.10 oz. fleece blend 90% cotton/10% polyester.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Zip Hoodie by CafePress $48 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Zip Hoodie Zip around town in style with this zip-up hooded sweatshirt. Made of soft fleece, it keeps you and anyone next to you toasty. Yet it's rugged enough for impromptu games of touch football.10 oz. fleece blend 90% cotton/10% polyester.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Women's Dark T-Shirt by CafePress $26 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Women's Dark T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The women's Dark T-shirt is comfortable, casual, and classy. The shirt is simple, flattering and will quickly become a favorite. The pre-shrunk 100% cotton is soft and durable.5.6 oz 100% cotton. Standard Fit.

Certified Rainbow Bar Code Gay Sigg Water Bottle 1.0L by CafePress $28 Our Certified Rainbow Bar Code will have you scanned accurately as the proud gay man, lesbian, bisexual or transgender that you are Get certified queer with the product of your choice. Gay Sigg Water Bottle 1.0L Help save the planet while you rehydrate in style with an eye-catching water bottle from SIGG. Made from a single piece of aluminum, it's ultra-lightweight yet rugged and crack-resistant. To minimize unwanted tastes and scents, the inside is lined with a