PRODUCT QUESTIONS

Whats the Most Important thing to remember when Buying a DiamonD?

When you go out to buy a sparkling diamond, you must consider 4Cs of diamonds - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat weight, as a base for your buying decision. These 4Cs will help you to choose the best diamonds on the same criteria on which jewelers use to select them.

What is Diamond Cut?

Diamond Cut is the most important property to increase its beauty because a well-cut diamond reflects light to maximize the stones brilliance. A diamond with perfect color and clarity could nevertheless have poor brilliance if it is not well cut. To learn more, click on Diamond Cut. A Diamond Cut by Shape describes the outline of the stone and pattern of the facet arrangement. A stone can be cut in various Shapes like Round, Princess, Heart, Oval, Pear etc. To learn more, click on Diamond Shapes. On the other side, a Diamond Cut by Depth is the ultimate feature for its brilliance and fire. A stone's cut by depth can be described with Shallow Cut, Deep Cut or Ideal Cut.

What is Diamond Color?

Diamonds are found in all colors of the rainbow, from colorless and transparent stones to ink black ones. Varying degrees of yellow or brown color is common in most of the diamonds and slight difference in color can make a substantial difference in value. A truly colorless diamond is extremely rare and considered the most valuable. It allows most light to pass through the stone and create the most brilliance. The color scale goes from D to Z, with D being the most white and Z being the most yellow.

What is Diamond Clarity?

Clarity is a term used to describe the absence or presence of flaws inside or on the surface of a diamond. In other words, the clarity of a diamond refers to a diamonds clearness or purity. When these flaws / marks occur internally, they are called inclusions and when these flaws / marks occur on the surface, they are known as blemishes. These slight flaws make every diamond quite unique but they also do affect the beauty and value of the diamond. Diamond Clarity Grading Scale grades a Diamond with any of the following grades: F (Flawless), IF (Internally Flawless), VVS1 - VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included - 1 & 2), VS1 - VS2 (Very Slightly Included - 1 & 2), SI1 - SI2 (Slightly Included - 1 & 2), I1 - I2 - I3 (Included - 1, 2 & 3).

What is Diamond Carat Weight?

The term "Carat" refers to the weight of a diamond. Each carat is divided into 100 points. Therefore, 1/4 carat diamond is considered as 25 points and 1/2 carat diamond is considered as 50 points and so on. When diamonds are mined, large diamonds are discovered rarely in comparison of small ones, which make large diamonds much more valuable. For that reason, the price of a diamond rises exponentially with its size. So, a 2 carat diamond of a given quality is always worth much more than two 1 carat diamonds of the equal quality. To learn more, click on Diamond Carat.

How do I Care for my Diamonds?

Regular cleaning of Diamond Jewelry is essential to maintain shine and brilliance of diamonds. On wearing them, they get dirty as you use various skin and body care regimen such as soaps, lotions and even our skins natural oils. Even when you are not wearing them, they collect dust. You can clean your diamonds at home by your own by using soft brush, water and soap or by using readymade jewelry cleaners. You can also take services of a professional jeweler, where he will check security of the settings also. Diamond jewelry should be stored individually in a soft cloth pouch to ensure that a diamond should not scratch other diamonds or other jewelry. You should not wear diamond jewelry while doing heavy work. You should avoid the situation where your diamonds come in contact with chlorine bleach, hair spray or other chemicals because they can pit or discolor the mounting. To learn more, click on Diamond Care.

Whats the difference between Carat and Karat?

When shopping for jewelry, it's not unusual to start wondering what the difference is between a Carat and a Karat. Both the terms are used for the purpose of measurement. The term 'Carat' refers to the weight of a diamond. It is derived from the carob seeds, which are remarkably consistent in weight and shape and so were the favored scale balances in ancient times. This was standardized in 1907 and after that 1 carat became 0.2 grams or 1/142 of an ounce. Furthermore, each carat is divided into 100 points. Therefore, 1/4 carat diamond is considered as 25 points and 1/2 carat diamond is considered as 50 points and so on. Carat is also used in its abbreviated 'Ct' form. On the other hand, a 'Karat' is a measurement used to measure the purity of gold, with 24 karat being the purest. The measurement gauges how much gold vs. how much alloy is in the piece of jewelry. If a jewelry item contains 18 Karat Gold that means it has Eighteen Parts Pure Gold and Six Parts Other Metal Alloys. Karat is also used in its abbreviated 'kt' form.

How do I Care for my Jewelry?

Jewelry requires proper care and treatment for its longevity so that it can even be handed down as heirlooms to future generations without losing their shine and sparkle. Regular cleaning of Jewelry is essential to maintain shine and brilliance of jewelry's gemstones and metal. On wearing jewelry, it gets dirty as you use various skin and body care solutions such as soaps, lotions and even it becomes oily from your skin's natural oils. Even when you are not wearing them, they collect dust. You can clean your jewelry at home by your own by using soft brush, water and soap or by using readymade jewelry cleaners. You can also take services of a professional jeweler to keep jewelry clean. Jewelry should be stored individually in a soft cloth pouch or plastic zip-lock bags to ensure that a piece of jewelry or gemstone should not scratch other jewelry or gemstones. You should not wear jewelry while doing heavy work, housework or gardening as it can be scratched. You should avoid the situation where your jewelry comes in contact with chlorine bleach, hair spray or other chemicals because they can severely discolor and damage your jewelry as well as their settings. To learn more, click on Jewelry Care.

How to Select Jewelry that fits in my Budget?

Jewelry is a personal ornament, such as a ring, bracelet, necklace or any other item made from jewels, precious metals or any other material. You must set your budget for buying jewelry and then explore all your options by considering cut, color, clarity and carat weight of a stone. By this way, you'll find a wide range of jewelry in your price range.

How is it Beneficial to buy from a Local Jeweler?

When purchasing jewelry from a local jeweler, you can be sure that you are getting the true value for your money. Local jewelers provide you more personalized services because they intend to build a legacy of integrity & trust with their customers. Since local jewelers intend to build personal relations with their customers, they care enough to deal in only certified & best quality diamonds & jewelry. A local jeweler can better understand your taste & style and keeps it in mind when he goes on buying trips. Also, you can expect an honest professional advice and satisfactory attention combined with before and after sale services only from a local jeweler.

How Gemstones are classified on the basis of their Characteristics?

  • Precious Stones
    Gemstones which are highly valuable for their hardness and rarity, are known as Precious Stones. Precious Stones are generally expensive in comparison of Semi-Precious Stones.Precious stones include Diamonds, Emeralds, Rubies, and Sapphires.
  • Semi-Precious Stones
    Gemstones those are valued for their beauty and not covered under any one of the four ‘Precious Stones’, are known as Semi-Precious Stones. Semi-Precious Stones are available in all price ranges from low priced to high priced. Semi-Precious stones are Alexandrite, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Citrine, Garnet, Iolite, Onyx, Opal, Pearl, Peridot, Tanzanite, Topaz, Tourmaline etc.

What is a Birthstone? What are the different Birthstones?

  • January’s Birthstone – Garnet
  • February’s Birthstone - Amethyst
  • March’s Birthstone - Aquamarine
  • April’s Birthstone - Diamond
  • May’s Birthstone - Emerald
  • June’s Birthstone - Pearl / Alexandrite / Moonstone
  • July’s Birthstone - Ruby
  • August’s Birthstone - Peridot / Sardonyx
  • September’s Birthstone - Sapphire
  • October’s Birthstone - Opal / Pink Tourmaline
  • November’s Birthstone - Citrine / Yellow Topaz
  • December’s Birthstone - Turquoise / Tanzanite / Zircon / Blue Topaz

What is Precious Metal?

A Precious Metal is a metal with rare metallic chemical element and due to that is of high economic value. Precious metals are less reactive than most elements, have high luster, and have higher melting points than other metals. Gold, Platinum and Silver are considered as p recious metals and used extensively in jewelry.

  • Gold
    Gold is an extraordinary and rare precious metal, with an unmatched combination of chemical and physical properties. Gold is the most non-reactive of all metals and it does not oxidize under ordinary conditions. No other metal is as malleable as gold. Pure gold is very soft and pliable, and alloys of different other metals are combined with pure gold to enhance its durability and strength, as well as creating a blush in the gold’s appearance with different color tones. 24 karat is 100 % pure gold, and it is more expensive and less durable than gold that is alloyed with other metals.
  • Platinum
    Platinum, an extremely rare and expensive metal, is a silvery gray precious metal often used for setting or mounting high quality diamonds and gemstones. Platinum is a strong, durable and dense metal which is valued for its white color and purity.
  • Silver
    Pure silver is very soft metal with its lustrous white color. Silver is used as jewelry metal well before the development of white gold alloys, and before platinum could be isolated. It is normally stable in pure air and water but tarnishes when exposed to ozone, hydrogen sulfide or sulfur.

What's the Most Important in Jewelry Selection for Buying?

Buying a perfect jewelry requires knowledge about Diamonds, Gemstone, Precious Metals and Settings & Finishing. Keep below points in mind while selecting jewelry for yourself or for your loved ones:

  • Whenever you buy jewelry for your loved ones, always keep their personality and preferences in mind.
  • When you decide to buy diamond or gemstone jewelry then you should always evaluate stones on 4Cs criteria.
  • You should ensure that stones of your jewelry are properly polished and with perfect symmetry.
  • You must ensure that there are no visible blemishes or imperfections on the diamonds, gemstones and on the metal.
  • You should also check to make certain that fasteners, clasps and catches work properly and are secure.
  • Beware of jewelry store lighting which usually consists of quartz or halogen bulbs.
  • When buying gold jewelry, it is advisable to go for either 14 karat or 18 karat gold jewelry. You should never buy 24 karat gold jewelry because it is too soft, less durable and more expensive. You should also avoid buying less than 10 karat gold jewelry, as it appears dull.

While buying jewelry, you should not be in hurry or in pressure. You should buy it at your convenience and at your own pace.

What is the meaning of Wearing Rings on Different Fingers?

Wearing a ring on a particular finger represents some of the attributes of your personality. Here you can find what does wearing a ring on particular finger means:

  • Thumb Ring is Poseiden (Individuality, Independence)
  • Index finger Ring is zeus (Dominance, Power, Energy)
  • Middle Finger Ring is Dionysus (Irreverence, Rebellion, Decadence)
  • Ring finger is Aphrodite (Love, Romance, Connection)
  • Pinky Ring is Ares (Conflict, Assertiveness, Competitiveness)
  • No Rings is Hermes (Friendliness, Helpfulness, Adventure)

What type of custom jewelry can Van Drake Jewelers create for me?

Van Drake Jewelers specializes in creating a wide range of custom jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more.

How do I begin the process of designing a custom engagement ring with Van Drake Jewelers?

To start designing a custom engagement ring, you can schedule a consultation by calling 651-457-4407, and one of our experienced jewelers will assist you. During this consultation, you can discuss your ideas, preferences, and budget to begin the design process.

Can I find both lab-grown and natural diamonds at Van Drake Jewelers?

Yes, Van Drake Jewelers offers both lab-grown and natural diamonds to cater to a variety of preferences and ethical considerations.

What are the benefits of choosing a lab-grown diamond from Van Drake Jewelers?

Lab-grown diamonds offer several benefits, including ethical sourcing, environmentally friendly production, and often a more affordable price compared to natural diamonds.

How does Van Drake Jewelers ensure the quality of its fine jewelry?

Van Drake Jewelers sources high-quality materials and employs skilled artisans to ensure the craftsmanship and quality of its fine jewelry. Additionally, all jewelry undergoes thorough quality inspections before being offered to customers.

How can I learn more about the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds at Van Drake Jewelers?

You can visit our website or schedule a consultation by calling 651-457-4407 to learn more about the differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds, including their characteristics, origins, and pricing.

What options do I have for customizing jewelry at Van Drake Jewelers?

Van Drake Jewelers offers a variety of customization options, including selecting different metals, gemstones, settings, and engraving options to create a unique piece of jewelry tailored to your preferences.

How do I care for and maintain the fine jewelry I purchase from Van Drake Jewelers?

We provide care instructions for all fine jewelry purchased from Van Drake Jewelers, including recommendations for cleaning, storage, and maintenance to ensure longevity and beauty.

What Can I Expect From Your Custom Jewelry Service?

Our custom jewelry service offers personalized attention, expert guidance throughout the design process, and the creation of a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that reflects your style and preferences.

Can I Have My Jewelry Repaired at Van Drake Jewelers?

Yes, Van Drake Jewelers offers jewelry repair services to address a wide range of issues, from resizing rings to fixing broken chains or clasps. For inquiries, call us at 651-457-4407.

How Does the Process for Creating Custom Jewelry Work?

The process for creating custom jewelry typically involves an initial consultation to discuss your ideas, followed by design sketches or computer-aided designs (CAD), and then the production of the final piece by our skilled craftsmen. For consultation, call us at 651-457-4407.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds and How Do They Compare to Natural Ones?

Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology, whereas natural diamonds are formed over millions of years deep within the Earth. Both types of diamonds have similar physical and chemical properties but differ in their origins and pricing.

Can Van Drake Jewelers repair any type of jewelry, or are there limitations?

Van Drake Jewelers has the expertise to repair a wide range of jewelry pieces, but certain complex repairs or specialty items may have limitations. We recommend contacting us directly to discuss your specific repair needs.

What types of jewelry repair services are available?

Van Drake Jewelers offers a comprehensive range of jewelry repair services, including but not limited to ring resizing, stone replacement, soldering, polishing, and restoration of antique or heirloom pieces.

Can Van Drake Jewelers help me select fine jewelry for a special occasion?

Yes, our knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting the perfect piece of fine jewelry for any special occasion, whether it's an engagement, anniversary, birthday, or other milestone.

Can I bring my own design ideas for custom jewelry to Van Drake Jewelers?

Absolutely! We welcome your design ideas and will work closely with you to bring your vision to life through our custom jewelry design service.

STILL HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

  +1 (651) 457-4407

  •  contactus@vandrakejewelers.com