Now diamonds are for everybody
Sujatha Tiwari

The Indian diamond industry cuts and polishes diamonds worth Rs 40,000 crore every year. In short, 11 of the 12 diamonds set in jewellery across the world come from the cutting and polishing units in India. In the jewellery manufacture also India produces about 50 per cent of the finished products. Backed by support from its government and trade organisations, India with an output of $12 billion worth of jewellery will export diamond adornments valued at more than $350 million this year. Best-selling styles are diamond fashion jewellery, retailing for less than $500. But many Indian firms are now expanding into high-fashion diamond jewellery and fancy gemstone collections aimed at sophisticated shoppers in Europe and the USA.

The mystique, magic, beauty and romance shining from a diamond ring says it all. Love, passion, desire and several other heart-felt expressions that are beyond words, could be easily expressed with this small stone. This hardest of all substances with its seductive brilliance epitomises eternal love and is also a fine expression of the inner fire and spirit of women.

Bridal Asia, held at Taj Palace in Delhi in October, marked the beauty of diamonds along with apparel lines of various national and international designers. More than 3,000 designs of jewellery were showcased.

Look into how the jewel-makers define the latest fashion in jewellery. "Today, jewellery is less traditional but customers want exclusivity," states Sapna Singhania of the Royal Orchid Jewellery showroom. "The focus is on diamonds, semi-precious and precious stones, all set in 18-carat yellow or white gold. This ‘ethno-contemporary’ fusion is in vogue. Coloured diamonds in pink, yellow, brown, red, orange, green are also making bold statements. These stunning diamonds suit women of all age groups and go well with both Indian and western wear." The fancy-cut diamonds, in the shape of star, leaf, dewdrops, heart and pearl, are becoming a rage too. "The younger generation prefers trendier and lighter pieces. These small pieces add grace to the personality. An elegant piece can enhance the overall look much more than the heavy piece of jewellery," advises a fashion expert.

Here is a little piece of advice given by designers on how to choose the rings. A person with shorter hands or smaller fingers should choose a variation of round-shaped rings (pearl, oval, marquise) as these shapes give illusion about the length. For those who have bigger fingers, should try out with emeralds and large pieces of stones with rectangular, square shape and various other fancy shapes.

As diamond traders put it, "Diamond is no more only a rich girl’s best friend, it is now also the buddy of the girl next door." So, get out and buy yourself a nice piece of fascinating and shimmering diamond. But words of advice from a stylist: if you are not certain about the authenticity of a certain jeweller, ask around. Don’t be afraid to question the jeweller when you settle on one. It is advisable not to buy diamond on an impulse. Check out the designs and prices. Keep 4 C’s (cut, clarity, colour and carat) of diamond in mind.

It is equally essential to take proper care of diamonds lest it loses its sheen. Lotions, soaps, powders and even natural skin oil reduces their brilliance. So it is necessary to take proper care of them. Here are a few don’ts that one must keep in mind while handling them. First, do not wear them while doing rough work. Second, keep it away from chlorine bleach. Third, don’t keep them in a drawer with other pieces of jewellery. Keep your precious pieces in a fabric-lined jewel case, or a box with compartments or dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece in tissue paper. (MF)

Keep them sparkling

Here are a few tips to clean your precious stones:

The detergent bath: Prepare a small bowl of warm suds with any of the mild liquid detergents used at home. Clean the piece with a brush and later rinse it under warm running water. Pat it dry with a soft towel.

The cold water soak: Make a half-and-half solution of cold water and household ammonia in a cup. Soak the piece for 30 minutes. Lift it out and tap it gently with a brush.

The quick-dip method: Clean it with liquid jewellery cleaning agents. Don’t touch your clean diamonds with your fingers. Handle your jewellery by its edges.

One practical and sure solution to sparkle diamond is to dip the jewellery in little water with half or quarter teaspoon of cooking soda.

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