When it comes to buying jewellery as a gift, it is natural to ask your jeweller of the latest products and styles available. After all, it is the jeweller’s profession and they will be able to offer their opinions and guides to help you purchase the perfect gift.
Below you will find the most frequently asked questions in relation to jewellery, which include important references and guides.
How do you define the term Jewellery?
According to the Latin and French derivation of the word, it means joy or gladness. Historians say that even back in prehistoric times, jewellery was known and regarded as a symbol of happiness.
What does ‘Carat’ mean?
The word ‘Carat’ is the Greek word for ‘seed’. It was first used in ancient times to measure weight.
How much does a Carat weigh?
A carat weighs approximately seven thousandths of an ounce. Therefore around 142 carats are required to make an ounce. A carat is divided into 100 points. A quarter of a diamond is therefore 25 points.
Where is my gold jewellery made?
It may be possible to find out where your gold jewellery comes from. This can be seen by the hallmark on the item. However, not all pieces of gold jewellery have this mark as it is only a legal requirement in certain countries. The UK for example legally must hallmark its gold jewellery. Other countries may not do it at all as they are not required to do so, some may do it voluntarily.
What is the difference between red, yellow and white gold?
Even though gold is yellow in colour, when alloyed/mixed with other metals, different colours can be produced. These other metals can be a mixture of silver, copper, and zinc. White and red gold can be made dependent upon the amount of metal it is alloyed with.
What is a diamond made from?
A diamond is made purely of carbon.
What is a diamond certificate?
A diamond certificate (otherwise known as grading report) is a document that provides specific information about the quality of a diamond.
Can a diamond be damaged?
Yes, even though they appear very hard. They can scratch each other and also because they are so strong, can damage other stones by scratching them also.
Does silver tarnish?
Yes, in time. However, silver is quite simple to look after and so is easy to keep looking shiny and new. Liquid silver cleaners are a popular cleaning solution and area available from your local jeweller.
Why are rings worn on the ‘Ring Finger’?
In terms of practicality, the third finger is the most convenient in terms of offering protection. This is because the first two fingers of a hand are usually more active. This is also the reason why it is on the left hand as opposed to the right.
What does ‘enhancing a gemstone’ mean?
To enhance something means to make it better. In terms of a gemstone the simplest and most basic way is done by cutting or fashioning. However, there are other methods of enhancement such as heating, oiling, irradiation and also dyeing. Theses are methods, which are used to enhance colour, and clarity. In most cases, any enhancements made to a gemstone are permanent.
What is recycled jewellery?
Recycled gold is otherwise known as ‘scrap’ and is mainly used in industrial items, which are melted and then re-formed. Coins are a good example of recycled gold. Approximately one quarter of jewellery production worldwide is made from recycled gold jewellery.
Where does the word ‘Watch’ come from?
During earlier days, small, portable clocks were carried around by town watchmen. Initially, they were called ‘watchman's clocks’. This was then changed to ‘watch clocks", which has since become ‘watch’ in today’s day and age.
