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What’s the Deal with Portrait Cut Diamonds?
If you’re a fan of diamonds, you’ve probably heard about the most popular cuts: oval, emerald, round, princess, pear, and more. However, have you ever heard of the portrait cut diamond? This less-common diamond cut is making a comeback in the world of jewelry and fashion.
In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about portrait-cut diamonds to help you decide whether it’s the best diamond cut for you.
What Is a Portrait Cut Diamond?
A portrait-cut diamond has a flat, elongated shape, and typically sits on a large table. It’s a shallow and step-cut design that has a low profile. A diamond with a portrait cut is thin and delicate, resembling a flat piece of glass.
It’s believed that the portrait cut originated in ancient India. Throughout history, the portrait cut was used to protect miniature paintings and portraits and enhance their visual appeal, which is how it got its name. This unique diamond cut is a combination of the traditional and the modern.
Portrait-cut diamonds are rare compared to other, more popular cuts. The fragile nature of the cut is what makes it so rare, as well as the fact that it’s incredibly difficult to faceting.
Be careful not to confuse the portrait cut with the baguette cut. Even though both of these diamond cuts have elongated, rectangular shapes, the baguette cut has sharp edges. The portrait cut, on the other hand, features polished corners, like the emerald cut. This makes the portrait cut a combination of the baguette cut and the emerald cut.
Portrait Cut Diamond vs. Rose Cut Diamond
The rose cut is another rare diamond cut. Imitating the shape of a rosebud, it features triangular facets. This cut was especially popular during the Victorian and Georgian eras when they were measured and cut by hand. What makes the rose cut special is its faceted top and flat base.
The main difference between the rose cut and the portrait cut is their surface. Portrait-cut diamonds are flat, while rose-cut diamonds have a domed shape. Rose-cut diamonds also have more facets. In fact, they can have up to 24 facets, as opposed to portrait-cut diamonds, which usually have less than 10. Finally, rose-cut diamonds come in various shapes and sizes, while portrait-cut diamonds are usually rectangular.
What these two diamond cuts have in common is their lack of sparkle. Unlike the brilliant cut, which is the ultimate embodiment of the phrase “shine bright like a diamond,” these two cuts produce a soft glow rather than an eye-catching sparkle.
10 Tips for Portrait Cut Diamond Rings
If you’re thinking about buying a portrait-cut diamond, here are 10 tips to help you.
1. Learn How to Style the Diamond
The portrait cut is elegant, unassuming, and minimalistic. If you’re someone who prefers a cluster of shiny diamonds, the portrait cut might not be for you. If you want to add shine to the ring, you can always choose a portrait-cut diamond with stone steps or accent diamonds on each side.
2. Clarity Is Important
When buying a portrait-cut diamond, clarity is one of the most significant factors to take into consideration. Diamonds with a portrait cut are transparent, so any inclusions will be noticeable. The trick is to find a portrait-cut diamond with no visible inclusions.
3. Portrait Cuts Aren’t Sparkly
Diamonds are considered so attractive and desirable because of their ability to sparkle. But what most people don’t know is that a diamond’s sparkle is determined by its cut. Simply put, a diamond can be cut to reflect light or absorb it. The precision of the cut, combined with the number of facets, determines how much a diamond can sparkle.
Portrait cuts aren’t as sparkly as other cuts. Instead, they generate a soft luster and a gentle glow that may not appeal to everyone. Before buying a portrait-cut diamond, ask yourself if you want a diamond that’s not sparkly.
4. Don’t Pay Too Much
Since portrait-cut diamonds are extremely thin, they usually come in a lower-carat weight. Even though they might appear larger than round brilliant-cut or princess-cut diamonds, they actually weigh less. That’s why it’s possible to find portrait-cut diamonds for a budget-friendly price. However, some jewelers will try to sell you a portrait-cut diamond for the same price as an oval or radiant cut, so do exercise caution.
5. Vintage Appeal
Portrait-cut diamonds are unique, and they have a vintage appeal. Even though they have a geometrical shape, they go wonderfully with vintage-style engagement rings. Rectangular jewelry was especially popular in the 1920s.
6. Consider the Shape of Your Hand
Since the portrait cut has an elongated shape, it gives off the illusion of length. That’s why portrait-cut diamond engagement rings are ideal for those who have short fingers. However, if your hands are small, a large portrait-cut diamond might be too much. If you have large hands or long fingers, a portrait-cut diamond engagement ring will also suit you.
7. Silver vs. Gold Ring
Diamonds complement both silver and gold rings, so deciding between the two is all about personal preference. Gold comes in various colors, from traditional yellow gold to more fashionable rose gold, but it’s more expensive. Diamond and silver are a beautiful and elegant combination. Platinum is another great choice for diamond engagement rings.
8. Think About the Color
A diamond’s color is graded based on GIA’s color-grading scale, and the most valuable diamonds exhibit no color at all. They’re called flawless diamonds. Colorless diamonds are also more expensive than diamonds with a yellow tint.
9. Three-Stone Settings
If a portrait-cut diamond is too plain for you, but you like its geometrical shape, you can always choose a three-stone setting.
10. Take Care of Your Portrait-Cut Diamond
Lastly, just like all wide, flat diamonds, portrait-cut diamonds are more exposed, which makes them more fragile. While diamonds are extremely hard and durable, they can still be scratched and damaged. If you decide to get a portrait cut, make sure to take proper care of it.
Talk to an Expert
Portrait-cut diamonds are coming back into style. More and more brides-to-be are choosing minimalistic, elegant diamond cuts instead of over-the-top, extravagant shapes. If you want to know more about portrait-cut diamonds, feel free to fill out the form below. I’d be happy to answer all your questions about this stunning diamond cut.

July 5, 2022
Complete Guide to Blue Moissanite
Many people buy blue moissanite as an alternative to sapphires and blue diamonds. Genuine, naturally-occurring moissanite is exceptionally rare. In fact, it’s so rare, that until the 1950s, it was only found in meteorites. Therefore, the majority of moissanite jewelry you’ll find today is man-made.
If you’re considering buying a blue moissanite engagement ring, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll tell you everything you need to know about blue moissanite, how much it costs, and if it’s worth the money.
What Is Blue Moissanite?
Discovered by Henri Moissan in 1893, moissanite is a type of naturally-occurring precious stone that’s made from silicon carbide. It’s nearly colorless, which is why it’s so easy to mistake it for a diamond. However, not all moissanite gemstones are colorless. In fact, most of them have a yellow or green tint.
Although moissanite and diamonds may have the same optical properties, they vary in physical structures and chemical compositions. The main difference between diamonds and moissanite is that diamonds are carbon composites, while moissanite is made of pure silicon carbide. Diamonds are also harder than moissanite, scoring 10 on the Mohs scale for hardness. Moissanite, on the other hand, has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale.
Since there is no official color grading scheme for moissanite, most gemologists use GIA’s diamond color grading scale. D, E, and F grades indicate colorless diamonds, which are the most valuable. If you stumble upon blue moissanite, it’s most likely lab-grown. Man-made moissanite comes in almost every color, including yellow, green, purple, pink, orange, gold, brown, and blue.
How Much Does Blue Moissanite Cost?
Not only does blue moissanite cost less than diamonds, but it’s also more affordable than other precious and semi-precious gemstones. A moissanite stone that’s the same size and quality as a diamond can cost up to 10 times less, but that depends on many factors.
For example, the price for a one-carat diamond can cost between $2,000 to $16,000. The “four Cs”– color, clarity, cut, and carat weight – play the most important role in a diamond’s overall value. Colorless, clear diamonds cost much more than diamonds with a yellow tint or eye-visible inclusions. A one-carat moissanite stone that’s equally colorless and clear can cost from $200 to $800.
Colorless moissanite costs more than their colored counterparts. Carat weight also determines value. For instance, two-carat and three-carat moissanite stones can cost from $1,200 to $3,000.
It might be hard to compare the price of same-sized diamonds and blue moissanite because they don’t have the same density. Moissanite gemstones weigh 15% less than diamonds. Make sure to take this into consideration when you’re buying moissanite and want to compare prices.
Shop for Blue Moissanite Rings
There are lots of places where you can buy blue moissanite rings online.
A great place to start looking is Etsy, where you can find a wide variety of blue moissanite rings for competitive prices. You can also find different shades of blue, from dark-blue and navy-blue to gray-blue and greenish-blue. It’s also possible to find various cuts, like the round cut, the emerald cut, the cushion cut, the baguette cut, and more.
If you would rather buy your blue moissanite ring from an independent jewelry store, you can shop at Aadvark Jewelry or Diamondrensu. Although these engagement rings are pricier compared to Etsy, these shops are more reputable and trustworthy. Moreover, you can find plenty of information about the rings, including their carat weight, clarity, color, and other important details.
Of course, viewing the ring in person is always a good idea. If you prefer to buy jewelry this way, try visiting a local jewelry store that offers blue moissanite engagement rings.
Blue Grey Moissanite Engagement Rings
Blue and gray moissanite engagement rings are exceptionally beautiful. To make sure you’ve selected the right model, ask about the ring’s “four Cs.”
Like I said before, lab-grown blue moissanite comes in various undertones, so you can find a hue that looks best on your (or your fiancée’s) hand. Blue moissanite is a budget-friendly alternative to blue diamonds and sapphires. What’s more, they go beautifully with any skin color.
Lab-grown moissanite can be found in a wide variety of cuts because it’s so durable. You can usually choose between round brilliant, cushion, baguette, emerald, pear, princess, Marquise, and even antique cuts.
What you really need to look for is clarity, however. The goal is to find blue moissanite that has no inclusions visible to the naked eye. But since most blue moissanite gems are man-made, they rarely come with inclusions. Gem labs use various forms of treatment and enhancement to get rid of all the tiny imperfections.
Is Moissanite a Scam?
Before we talk about whether buying moissanite is worthwhile, it’s important to make a distinction between natural moissanite and lab-grown moissanite.
If you can get your hands on natural moissanite, lucky you! The sad fact is that most naturally occurring moissanite gems are exceptionally rare. For that reason, it’s almost impossible to find natural moissanite that hasn’t been treated in any way. Not to mention that natural moissanite can’t be made into jewelry because they are found in very small sizes. In fact, a naturally occurring moissanite usually can’t be cut into a one-carat gemstone.
Since moissanite and diamonds look similar, many jewelers try to sell moissanite as diamonds. In this sense, buying moissanite for more than $1,000 (if it’s a one-carat stone) is a scam. Real diamonds can cost up to $16,000 for just one carat. Moissanite shouldn’t cost more than $2,000 to $3,000.
Whether lab-grown or natural, moissanite isn’t the same as a diamond. But this doesn’t mean they’re fake gemstones. For example, moissanite is different to cubic zirconia, which is usually used to mimic diamonds and has no real value. Naturally-occurring moissanite is a precious stone, just like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires.
Talk to an Expert
If you can’t afford a blue diamond or a sapphire, lab-grown blue moissanite can be the perfect replacement. Just be careful not to get scammed and pay the price of real moissanite, or worse, a diamond.
If you have any questions about blue moissanite and how to shop for it, fill out the form below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

July 5, 2022
What Is the Density of a Diamond?
There are several ways to differentiate two diamonds that appear identical. For example, we can look at the optical properties, hardness, specific gravity, refractive index, and density of a diamond.
If you’re new to the world of gemstones, all these scientific terms might seem confusing. I know how much I struggled when I first started learning about the chemical compositions of diamonds. Today, we’ll talk about measuring a diamond’s density.
What Is Density?
Density is used to measure the mass of a substance per unit of volume. Simply put, density refers to the relationship between the volume of an object (how much space it takes up) and the mass itself. While density is usually used for substances, this parameter can also tell us a lot about various materials, like minerals and rocks.
We use density for many scientific purposes. For instance, measuring the density of objects can tell us whether they will float in water or sink. Another great example of different densities is vinegar and vegetable oil. You guessed it – vinegar is denser than vegetable oil, which is why oil floats on top of vinegar in your salad.
Be careful not to confuse density with specific gravity, however. Even though some use these two terms interchangeably, they’re not the same. While density estimates the “compactness” of a substance or item, specific gravity measures the ratio between density and water at 4 degrees Celsius.
How to Measure a Diamond’s Density?
Now that I’ve explained what density is, let’s discuss what it has to do with diamonds. Is density even important when it comes to estimating a diamond’s weight? The answer is yes.
No two diamonds are the same. Every naturally-occurring diamond comes with inclusions, which are microscopic bubbles, cracks, and other tiny imperfections that appear in their crystalline structure. These inclusions are the reason two diamonds with identical optical properties may have completely different densities.
A diamond’s density can vary between 3.5 to 3.53 grams per cubic centimeter or 3,500 to 3,530 kilograms per cubic meter, which is over three times denser than water. What makes diamonds so high in density is their rigid crystalline structure. Did you know that diamonds are the hardest naturally occurring substances in the world? That’s because they’re a solid form of pure carbon.
Measuring the density of other objects is done with water. However, with diamonds, heavier liquids are required. Diamonds are usually placed in a mixture of toluene and bromoform. Their density is determined after seeing whether they will float, sink, or stay suspended in the solution.
There are other ways you can estimate a diamond’s density. Most of these tests are conducted in gemological laboratories and geological institutions. Measuring diamond density is also important because it allows gemologists to differentiate authentic diamonds from fake stones.
Do Colored Diamonds Have Different Densities?
Diamond densities can differ in colored diamonds. This brings us to carbonado – a type of black diamond found in Brazil and the Central African Republic. Carbonado diamonds are the toughest forms of natural diamonds in the world. Mysterious and interesting to gemologists, their exact origin isn’t 100% certain. Some scientists even believe they come from stars. Carbonado diamonds are high-density minerals, slightly denser and tougher than monocrystalline diamonds.
There are other types of diamonds that are denser than colorless diamonds. For example, yellow diamonds mined in Africa can have a density of 3.524 grams per cubic centimeter. Other high-density diamonds include brown diamonds that were found in Brazil, which have a density of up to 3.60 grams per cubic centimeter.
Regardless of the diamond’s color, their density can be difficult to measure if they contain a lot of inclusions. Traces of imperfections can make the diamond’s density no more than useless. That’s why clean diamonds with Vvs1 and Vvs2 clarity (nearly perfect) are much more valuable. Diamonds with an IF clarity (flawless diamonds) are extremely rare and expensive.
The Densities of Other Gemstones
Gemstones have different densities. Some are low-density while others are high-density. Most gemstone densities are estimated by first measuring the weight of the gemstone in air and then placing it in water.
For example, emeralds have a density of 2.67 to 2.78 grams per cubic centimeter, while rubies have an average density of 3.97 to 4.05 grams per cubic centimeter. Similarly, the density of sapphires varies from 3.95 to 4.03 grams per cubic centimeter.
Gemstones that have the heist densities include cinnabar, with a density of 8.0 to 8.2 grams per cubic centimeter, cassiterite, which has 6.7 to 7.1 grams per cubic centimeter, and cerussite with a density of 6.46 to 6.57 grams per cubic centimeter.
Do Graphite and Diamond Have the Same Density?
Diamonds have a higher density than graphite, even though these two minerals have identical chemical compositions. But how can they have different densities? Let me explain.
Diamonds and graphite both consist of carbon, and they’re both polymorphous crystalline forms. Even though they are identical chemically, they are worlds apart when it comes to optical properties. What makes them different is their hardness. Previously, I stated that diamonds are the hardest naturally-occurring substances in the world. That’s why diamonds score 10 on the Mohs Scale, which is used to measure the hardness and scratch resistance of gemstones and minerals.
Graphite, on the other hand, has a hardness of 1 or 2 on the Mohs Scale. This makes it much softer than diamonds. To understand why graphite is less dense than diamonds, we would have to look at its chemical structure. Diamond atoms are tightly bonded, which makes them denser. As opposed to diamonds, graphite consists of carbon atoms that have a much looser, open structure.
For this reason, graphite has an average density of 2.2 grams per cubic centimeter.
Talk to an Expert
If you’re planning on buying a diamond, it’s important to do your research first. Although color, cut, clarity, and carat weight are the most important quality-determining factors, there are other properties you need to look at. A diamond’s density can determine how hard and tough it is, which is something you definitely want.
If you have any questions about the density of diamonds and other gemstones, feel free to fill out the form below. I would be happy to answer any of your questions about diamond density.

July 5, 2022
Understanding Green Sardonyx
If you’re passionate about crystals, then you’ve probably heard about green sardonyx. It isn’t rare like some other gemstones and has been used in jewelry for centuries. It’s a stone of good fortune, positive thinking, and a peaceful mind.
Here, I’ll tell you everything there is to know about this magical crystal, and I’ll also show you some beautiful stones you can buy on Etsy.
What Is Green Sardonyx?
Green sardonyx is a variety of agate; it is microcrystalline quartz formed within metamorphic and volcanic rocks. It’s a semi-precious stone that comes in a variety of colors. Some of the most well-known varieties of agate include lace agate, moss agate, iris agate, Brazilian agate, and sardonyx.
Sardonyx gemstones are usually orange, red, and dark brown, and commonly found with white or black stripes. The crystal got its name by combining the words “sand” and “onyx.” The reason is, that it’s created with alternating layers of sand and onyx. These gemstones are less common than red and orange sardonyx. You can find them in different shades, from light green to dark green, and they usually come with white parallel bands.
Most sardonyx crystals come from India, but they can be found all over the world. What makes them truly special is that no two sardonyx stones are the same. Their intricate patterns are formed naturally, without any lab treatments.
Green sardonyx can be used to make various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, brooches, pendants, bracelets, and similar. Its green color goes beautifully with both silver and gold. It’s also good for cameos and intaglios. This type of sardonyx is often sold as tumbled stones, ideal for crystal collectors.
In terms of meaning, these crystals instill confidence, willpower, and stamina. Some believe that this stone attracts positivity and good fortune. It’s a powerful grounding stone for protection and strength. It’s also the gemstone for the month of August, along with peridot.
Shop for Green Sardonyx
Here are some jewelry and tumbled stones you might like:
1. Palm Stone
If you’re looking for tumbled stones, then these gemstones come in a variety of intricate patterns. They measure 2.1 to 2.2 inches and are infused with Reiki.
2. Handmade 14k Gold and Green Sardonyx
If you’re not on a budget, then this stunning green sardonyx ring will take your breath away. The crystal is sitting in a massive claw cabochon that’s handmade using 14k gold. It measures 1 1/8 x 7/8 inches and comes with a lifetime warranty. This ring is one of a kind.
3. Tumbled Crystal
More green sardonyx crystal tumble stones! For only $6.36, you can choose the one that captures your attention.
4. Crystal Hearts
These green sardonyx hearts sell for $9 each and would make a wonderful addition to your crystal collection. They were made by combining layers of sand and onyx.
5. Green Sardonyx Tumbled Stone
This is another interesting green sardonyx tumbled stone selection. Whether or not you believe it will improve your courage and optimism, it will certainly please the eye.
6. Copper Wire Pendant
If you want a green sardonyx piece for everyday wear, then take a look at this pendant. The crystal is beautiful and has a unique solid look. Copper wire holds the crystal in place and the piece is handmade.
7. Crystal Tower
If you’re looking for a crystal tower, then this green sardonyx is a stunning piece. It measures 3.5 x 7.5 inches and costs $9.75.
8. Handmade Adjustable Sardonyx Crystal Macrame Necklace
If you like wearing necklaces, then check out these handmade adjustable crystals. You can choose between four different models with adjustable lengths. They’re wrapped in a waxed gray or black cord.
9. Crystal Sphere
For those who like to collect crystal spheres, take a look at this beautiful green sardonyx sphere. It has white and brown stripes and is completely unique.
10. Silver Boho Ring
This is another stunning green sardonyx ring. The stone is surrounded by silver. It has a boho style that would look great on any hand.
Price of Green Sardonyx
As you can see from these Etsy pages, the crystal itself isn’t expensive. If you want to buy tumbled stones, then it will only cost you a few dollars. The jewelry, on the other hand, is going to be slightly more expensive, especially if it’s made with gold and silver.
The reason it is generally inexpensive is that it’s readily available. There are sardonyx deposits all over the world, the largest ones being in India. Other sources of sardonyx are found in Madagascar, Germany, Uruguay, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and more. If you have a crystal shop in your town, then you would probably be able to find them there.
Green Sardonyx vs. Emerald
Green sardonyx and emerald are on two completely different sides of the price scale. Unlike green sardonyx, emeralds are always in high demand. While the price for green sardonyx is only a few dollars, a one-carat emerald can cost from $200 to $18,000. There have even been emeralds sold for millions of dollars.
Aside from their color, these stones have a few things in common. In fact, they differ in chemical composition and physical properties. Most importantly, emeralds are far more valuable than any type of agate. They are among the four most valuable precious gemstones, along with rubies, sapphires, and diamonds.
Talk To An Expert
The green sardonyx is a beautiful gemstone that any crystal lover should have in their collection. They’re inexpensive and readily available. Whether you buy a tumbled stone or a piece of jewelry, it will bring good fortune and positive energy into your life.
If you have any questions about this lovely crystal, then feel free to fill out the form below. I have been passionate about crystals and jewelry for a long time, so I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.

July 1, 2022