Diamonds are a Girls’ Best Friend: Atelier Bijoux on the 4Cs of Diamonds

Other than designer clothes, shoes, and bags, diamonds are a great choice of investments because of their ability to stand the test of time. 

As we grow older, we realize the importance of being smart with our purchases. Invest in good quality items that will last you a lifetime; ones that you can pass on to your children. Trends come and go, and instead of blowing all your cash on stuff that changes every season, why not get your hands on well-crafted and exceptionally designed diamond jewellery that stands the test of time. Ladies, there’s no need to wait for a man to get you your first.

These shards of what dreams are made of hold a lot of value for something that fits on the tip of your finger -- and like many other physical assets, have proven a price that appreciates over time. Although seemingly similar, at least outwardly, diamonds are like fingerprints. But to find out how to determine their value, one needs a knowledgeable and trustworthy partner

Atelier Bijoux was founded by Bea Lam and Michelle Roxas, who launched their flagship brand last April, 2021, after completing a course with the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA).

Being part of a traditional Chinese family, their god parents and other relatives would gift them jewellery to mark important milestones. This allowed them to develop a passion for collecting gems and stones as well as developing an eye to know which ones are worth investing in. More than designers, they believe that jewelleries and diamonds are far more valuable as since diamonds are hard, they keep their shape and brilliance for decades.   

So what are things one should look for when buying diamonds?

For diamonds, it’s the “4 C’s” of: Carat, Cut, Colour, and Clarity:

Carat

 Carat refers to the unit of the diamond’s weight. The larger stones are, the rarer and more desirable they are. However, not all diamonds with equal carat weights will cost the same. As the cost of a diamond will depend on all the 4 C’s as well as a collective whole. 

Cut

 Cut refers to the proportion, quality of polish and finish, and symmetry of its dimensions. The beauty of a diamond is associated with its cut. The amount of brightness, “fire,” and scintillation are dependent (or an effect of) the diamond’s cut. A person’s choice of cut is usually a reflection of one's personality. 

The beauty of diamonds lies in their rarity and sentimental value. Diamond jewellery enthusiasts understand that these precious stones are simply more than just an accessory. Whether gifted or personally chosen by you, a diamond represents your uniqueness and brilliance as a person. 

Are you more of a heart-shaped diamond? A marquise, or princess? Or do you prefer classic round ones or cushion-shaped diamonds?

Color

         It is difficult to differentiate traditional colors. However, the color (or lack of!) can have an impact on the overall value and quality of the diamond. Less is more when it comes to traditional white diamonds. Colorless pinks, blues, and yellows, are available depending on the kind you are eyeing on. Fancy colored diamonds in a range of pink, blue, yellow, green hues are also available. 

         The traditional color range of diamonds fall within the D to Z grading scale; D representing colorless diamonds that cascades down to Z as presence of light yellow and brown become more visible.

On the other hand, there are also what you call “fancy colored diamonds” that fall beyond the Z range. These are considered rare instances that come in every color of the spectrum – blues, greens, pinks, and reds. Because these colors are considered rare, expect that these diamonds may cost more. 

Clarity

This refers to the internal characteristics of a diamond. Naturally, they have inclusions that set them apart from other two diamonds, so essentially, no two diamonds are exactly the same. All of these factors affect the brightness, fire and scintillation that exudes from a stone. A smaller diamond with better color and clarity can cost significantly higher than a larger diamond with a lower color and clarity grade.

“At Atelier Bijoux PH, we only use the best quality diamonds for custom orders most especially. However, we also cater to people on a budget looking for high quality jewellery that will last a lifetime.”

Atelier Bijoux offers a wide range of ready made Jewellery to choose from. Sourced internationally, each piece of jewellery is carefully designed, crafted, and guaranteed to last generations. Custom-made or Bespoke Jewellery, designed by in-house designers and handcrafted by our very own Filipino artisans, are also available upon request. If you are interested in investing your diamonds, you can check their page at Atelier Bijoux. 

—alike.com.ph


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