Larsen Jewellery - Diamond Rings

Why are Hearts & Arrow diamonds so desirable?

Lars — Mon, 14 May 2012 07:20:00 +1000

Heart & Arrow Diamonds are one of the rarest and most sort after types of diamonds on the market. The name Heart & Arrow refers to exactly what the name suggests – it is this pattern that is displayed as a result of extremely precise symmetry and proportions.

Heart and Arrow diamonds were discovered and introduced onto the world market in the 1980's in Japan. Following the discovery of the first Heart & Arrow diamond in Japan a piece of equipment called the Heart & Arrow viewer became available. Using this tool it is possible to see the difference between a true Heart & Arrow diamond and a non Heart & Arrow diamond. As technology advanced so did the cutting skills. What sets a heart and arrow diamond apart is the perfect proportions and symmetry. When looking into a Heart & Arrow diamond it is like looking at a perfectly symmetrical kaleidoscope pattern. The way that the facets overlap each other is what creates this precise pattern. The perfect symmetry and proportion allows the light to reflect such brilliance making these diamonds so highly desirable. When viewing a heart & arrow diamond from the crown (top) eight perfectly symmetrical arrows should be visible and from the pavilion (bottom) eight perfectly symmetrical hearts should be visible.

At Larsen Jewellery we work with the industry's most reputable diamond suppliers to bring you a beautiful selection of diamonds to view. Schedule an appointment with us today to view a selection of heart and arrow diamonds for you own engagement ring.

Art Deco Engagement Rings

Lars — Mon, 07 May 2012 10:12:00 +1000

Art Deco style engagement rings are still a very popular choice for women who are after something that is a unique statement piece and typically more unconventional compared to the classic solitaire engagement rings.

The Art Deco period of design started in France in the 1920s and 1930s, following on from the Art Nouveau period. It was a time of extravagance, class, high society and radical design. The Art Deco style reflected this with the use of grand and elegant geometry, long curved lines, motifs and bold use of colour.
Antique Art Deco engagement rings are extremely rare to come by; especially from the renowned French designers of that time Sandoz, Templier, Fouquet and Brandt. However, many women draw inspiration from these famous styles to come up with their own modern take on an Art Deco ring.

Art Deco inspired rings are typically formed of lots of metal, geometric shapes and patterns that reflect the architecture of this period. They are usually beautiful elegant pieces, far from being understated in appearance! One typical style of an Art Deco Engagement ring will consist of a square cut centre stone and then surrounded by rectangular baguettes or triangular stones all set into a bold geometric pattern. It is not uncommon for coloured gemstones to be used in Art Deco designs, especially rubies, blue sapphires and emeralds as these colours very much represent the style of this period.

At Larsen Jewellery we can help you come up with your own Art Deco inspired engagement ring. One of our popular Art Deco inspired engagement rings the 'Deco' can be viewed on our website. At Larsen Jewellery we can source a range of exquisite diamonds and coloured gemstones for you to choose from to work with you to create your own heirloom piece.

Engagement Rings made from Platinum

Lars — Thu, 03 May 2012 06:37:00 +1000

Both more rare and less traditional than gold, platinum is a superb option for engagement rings. Platinum differs from gold in several ways. Like gold, it is known for being visually appealing, malleable, and fairly resistant to acids and other corrosive elements. It is heavier than gold, and has a higher melting point. While platinum does not feature the permanent glitter found in gold, its rarity and resistance to tarnishing give it a unique allure.

Though platinum jewellery has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, platinum rings are not a modern idea. This precious metal has a long history of being used in symbolic jewellery, and has been made into rings since the 19th century. It was first called platina del Pinto by the Spaniards, for its resemblance to silver, and has since become known for its silvery-white, radiant colouring and its status as a symbol of prestige and rarity.

For example, the majority of Queen Elizabeth’s crown, made for her coronation as royal wife to King George VI, was crafted from pure platinum. The choice of platinum to commemorate a royal union was a sensible one, since this precious metal symbolises elemental love and enduring connection. Unlike baser elements, it won’t change color, fade, or tarnish over time.

At Larsen Jewellery, our jewellers have a wealth of experience crafting beautiful rings with platinum. We can design and create a breathtaking engagement ring for your fiancée, which will allow her to express her individuality with class and timeless elegance. Contact us in Sydney on (02) 9223 2006 or Melbourne on (03) 9662 3005 to arrange a private appointment.

Argyle Pink Diamonds

Lars — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 23:53:00 +1000

Argyle Pink Diamonds are widely argued to be the most sort after and expensive diamonds on the world market. The rarity and their characteristically beautiful deep pink hue is what sets these beautiful diamonds apart from other coloured diamonds on the market.

The Argyle mine is located in the Kimberley Region in northern Western Australia. Exploration of the Argyle region started in the 1970s and it wasn't until the 1980s that the Argyle mine was up and running. Since then the Argyle mine has continued to grow as the world's leading producer of intense pink diamonds. Every year Pink Argyle diamonds are sold on the world market for astoundingly high prices. Differing from white diamonds, pink diamonds are graded on their colour and saturation. The more intense the pink the higher the value - 1P being the darkest and 8P being the lightest.

It is estimated that the Argyle mines supplies 90 per cent of the worlds pink diamonds. However, this number is diminishing. It has been said that there is only 10 years supply of pink diamonds remaining, making now the perfect time to invest.

At Larsen Jewellery we work along with the industry's most reputable suppliers to source some of the world's most beautiful pink diamonds. One of our talented jewellers can work with you to come up with a stunning piece of jewellery to include one of the world's most beautiful natural treasures!

Trapezoid Diamond Engagement Rings

Lars — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 02:11:00 +1000

A trapezoid diamond has four sides and is similar to a triangle with one point missing. Trapezoids are available in both brilliant and step cuts; each giving a unique look so it is recommended to view both options during your diamond appointment.

Trapezoids are most often used to frame a centre diamond on the left and right sides, creating an angular three stone effect. It works best when the centre stone is of emerald, princess or asscher shape as each of these has flat sides for the trapezoids to sit against.

In terms of proportion, the trapezoids should be smaller than the centre diamond, even if just slightly.

Trapezoids are becoming an increasingly popular option in diamond engagement rings, and offer a great alternative to baguette and trillion cuts, which are often used for the same purpose.

For those wanting diamonds to frame their oval or cushion cut centre diamond, crescent trapezoids are the answer.

The longest edge of a crescent trapezoid is curved inwards, which allows the stone to sit comfortably against rounded diamonds.

To view a selection of beautiful trapezoid diamonds, or to try on a range of diamond engagement rings, please contact Larsen Jewellery in Sydney 02 9223 2006 or Melbourne 03 9662 3005.

Three Stone Trio Diamond Rings

Lars — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:37:00 +1000

Rings featuring three gemstones, usually diamonds are known as three stone or trio diamond rings. This kind of design is commonly used for engagement rings and can be created using any shape of diamond or coloured gemstone by the expert Jewellers at Larsen Jewellery in Sydney and Melbourne. Your design options are endless and upon appointment we can show you a beautiful selection of diamond to choose from to create your own unique ‘trio’ design.

A vital element to consider is that the two gemstones placed on the outer-sides match each other perfectly in terms of colour, cut and overall look; otherwise one stone will clearly stand out from the other which is not ideal. The centre gemstone, however, can completely differ from the side gemstones without taking away from the design.

Another recommendation is to keep the side gemstones proportionately smaller than the centre stone, even if the difference is only slight, as this will keep the attention on the centre stone which should always be the main focus.

The wonderful thing about choosing a three stone ring is that you have the opportunity to incorporate colour into your design, without sacrificing a diamond. For example, you could use a diamond for the centre stone and then add your favourite coloured gemstones such as sapphires or coloured diamonds on either side.

If coloured gemstones aren’t for you, keep the design elegant and classic by selecting all white diamonds. You can then play around with the many different combinations of diamond cuts that we have available for you.

If you appreciate antique design, or are passionate about the art deco movement then a few simple additions such as mill grain detailing and diamond placement added by our jewellers will turn your trio diamond ring into a work of art.

To view our large range of three stone diamond ring designs, or to arrange an appointment to view a selection of diamonds and coloured gemstones, please give us a call on 02 9223 2006.

Diamond Prices

Lars — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 03:29:00 +1000

Asking the price of a diamond is akin to asking the price of a car, it depends on many factors.

The price of a diamond is largely determined by the carat size, colour, clarity and cut of the individual stone and whether or not it has been certified. There are also certain stones that are significantly more expensive than others due to their rarity, such as pink and blue diamonds.
Every individual diamond is unique and will be priced accordingly, based on its overall quality, grading and characteristics.

A recommended way to receive more information on pricing is to contact a reputable Jeweller that specialises in the sale of loose diamonds.

Once you have viewed a selection of diamonds, you will find some elements to be more important to you than others. For example, you may prefer to have a larger diamond and step down one grade in colour, whereas others may prefer a smaller stone of higher colour grade.

It is also recommended that you choose the diamond, within your price range that catches your eye the most during a viewing. When comparing a $1,500 diamond with a $10,000 diamond, you may well find that you prefer the overall look of less-expensive stone. In other words, sometimes it’s best to choose your stone visually than to worry about what its particular specifications are.

Another strong influence on diamond pricing is the cut grade. The cut grade represents how well the stone has been cut to reflect light and create sparkle, which is the most important contributing factor of them all. Even the highest grade of diamond will look dull if cut poorly. The highest cut grade is ‘Excellent’.

Larsen Jewellery’s talented team of diamond experts can assist you in making an educated decision when purchasing a diamond. Upon a no-obligation appointment they will show you a selection of loose diamonds to choose from, all within your price range and at competitive workshop prices.

To make an appointment please call Larsen Jewellery in Sydney on 02 9223 2006.

Bezel Set Diamond Engagement Ring

Lars — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 03:19:00 +1000

A Bezel-set diamond is one that is completely surrounded by a border of metal, framing the stone along the outside edge. Bezel settings are classic and neat in design and are favoured by those who want to branch out from the traditional claw settings.

Not only does this setting look great, it is also the most secure way to set a diamond. Claws can require re-tipping over time, whereas Bezel settings are incredibly hard-wearing and contrary to popular belief, will not subtract light flow or brilliance from a well-cut diamond.

Another benefit is that this type of setting will not catch on delicate garments or long hair.

Larsen Jewellery in Sydney and Melbourne specialise in custom made engagement ring design. You have the benefit of choosing your own diamond personally, then the exciting task of designing your ideal ring design with the help of your very own expert Jeweller.

If you are after a Bezel setting for your engagement ring design, you also have the liberty of deciding on the width of your bezel ‘frame’ and how much metal you wish to border your diamond.

Another fantastic option for those who like the bezel-set look is a semi-bezel setting. A semi-bezel is when your diamond is only partially bordered by metal, for example the top and bottom of the stone are bordered, whilst the top and bottom side are left open.

To see some examples of a semi-bezel setting, please view the following Larsen Jewellery designs:

Angel
Waterlilly
Orion
Azure Trilogy
Venus

To see some examples of a bezel setting, please view the following Larsen Jewellery designs:

Bliss
Royale
Champagne
Sunburst
Sunburst II
Aqua Sunburst

Princess Cut Diamond Ring

Lars — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 05:35:00 +1000

Larsen Jewellery in Sydney and Melbourne are the experts in custom made engagement ring design. With an extensive range of Princess cut diamond ring variations to choose from, you are sure to find your dream ring to be cherished for a lifetime.

Princess cut diamonds are one of the most popular diamond cuts available today. When cut correctly, their Brilliance will demand attention and awe.

Princess cut diamond rings are also unique in the fact that they fit in both the ‘modern’ and ‘classical’ categories.

When it comes to the setting, there are many options available. It is strongly recommended to take the wearer’s personal style into consideration when making this decision. Here are some examples of the looks that can be achieved:

Understated elegance:
A four claw open ‘V’ solitaire setting, tapering inwards towards the diamond.
Inspiration: The ‘Eclipse‘ design, by Larsen Jewellery.

Vintage belle:
A four claw solitaire design, tapering gently at base and featuring delicate hand-engraving on all visible surfaces.
Inspiration: The ‘Bella’ design, by Larsen Jewellery.

Sophisticated glamour:
A four claw setting, featuring dazzling Brilliant cut diamonds, bead set half way around the band.
Inspiration: The ‘Amore Princess’ design, by Larsen Jewellery.

Modern chic:
A wider band of flat-profile, featuring a bezel setting to surround the entire diamond.
Inspiration: The ‘Bliss’ design, by Larsen Jewellery.

To view these designs and more, please call Larsen Jewellery in Sydney: 02 9223 2006.

Pear Cut Diamond Ring

Lars — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:15:00 +1000

The Pear cut diamond, also known as the tear-drop cut was created using the best elements of both the Marquise and Oval shaped diamond cuts.

The Pear cut diamond ring is not as common as a Round or Princess cut diamond ring and is therefore a perfect option for those wanting something unique and different.

The team of expert Jewellers at Larsen Jewellery in Sydney and Melbourne can show you a selection of beautiful Pear cut diamonds to choose from, which you can then have set into your personally customised ring design.

It’s important to select Pear shaped diamonds based on the highest cut and symmetry grades to ensure the stone is as symmetrical as possible and demonstrates fire or ‘sparkle’. Lower cut grades tend to show darkness in the centre of the stone which will in turn negatively affect even the most brilliant diamonds of the highest colour and clarity.

Another element to consider when choosing a Pear cut diamond is the width to length ratio. There is no ‘correct’ ratio but rather it is a matter of personal taste. The longer, narrower cuts can look fantastic in earrings and pendants; whereas the shorter and wider cuts are a wonderful choice for a Pear cut diamond ring or engagement ring.