Tag Archive for 'Sam Kritsotakis'

The 4C’s in Diamond Characteristics: Carat Weight

Published on August 23, 2010 in Diamond Certification, Diamond Education, Diamonds and White Diamonds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , , .

The 4C’s in Diamond Characteristics: Carat Weight

In this series of blog posts, I have been examining the brilliance and beauty of the natural diamond. I have touched on the colour, clarity and cut of the diamond. These three, along with carat weight make up the 4C’s. The 4C’s is a method by which the GIA – the benchmark in diamond grading throughout the world – compares the quality of diamonds.

In this post, let’s take a look at carat weight and how that plays into the value and desire of the diamond. The word carat is the term used to express the weight of the diamond and one carat is equal to 200 milligrams of actual weight and five carats is equal to 1 gram. Interestingly, while carat weight is used to measure other gemstones, different stones of the same weight are not necessarily the same sizes as the density of the stone plays a role in total carat weight.

When considering two equal carat diamonds, for instance, one may be cut too shallow and will appear to have a larger diameter but a smaller depth. The other diamond may be cut too deep – what is considered to be bottom heavy – and will have a smaller diameter, but will appear smaller when it is viewed from the top. In this case, both diamonds are equal in carat weight, yet look very different when viewed with the naked eye.

It is important to remember that as the diamond carat size increases, so does the diameter and depth of the diamond. As a result, a 1.00 carat diamond will not look twice as wide as a 0.50 carat diamond. At the same time, you must consider the size of the finger that will wear the diamond as a 1 carat solitaire looks much larger on a smaller finger than it will on a larger finger.

Smaller diamonds are weighed in points instead of carats. The carat weight is still the base of measurement, but the points communicate to the consumer and the jeweller how much of a whole carat is represented in the stone. In other words, there are 100 points in 1 carat and if a diamond is rated a 0.05, this means it is five one-hundredths. A 0.05 carat diamond is equal to five points.

The carat weight of the diamond will impact its value, simply because larger diamonds that are both brilliant and beautiful are much rarer. At the same time, the larger diamond is in more demand than smaller diamonds of the same quality. As a result, a larger carat diamond solitaire has more value that a diamond setting made up of multiple diamonds that total the same carat weight, but are individually smaller. Likewise, the diamond that is just less than one full carat will be less expensive than the diamond that surpasses the full-carat benchmark.

No matter what the carat weight of the diamond, its value will also take into account the cut, clarity and colour as all four combine into the 4C’s when determining the true quality and investment potential of the diamond.

I have enjoyed this series and I do hope that you have been able to learn some new and important information that will help you make the best decision when you are purchasing your next diamond – whether it be for an engagement ring or anniversary or just because…

If you are in need of expert advice, please contact me via my website, Eskae Jeweller and I will be happy to sit with you to go through the various options available in your next diamond purchase.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Gold – Pure gold Ferrari 599 GTB

Published on August 14, 2010 in Fun Stuff and Gold. 0 Comments Tags: , , , .

These pictures were sent to me by a friend of mine as a joke – he knows I like the finer things in life and my preference in cars is for the ones that either cost way too much money in the first place, go way to fast for a human to be driving them or both…

So he figured that if I could get a car that was made of gold, I would be happy!

I am sure you will agree that this would do VERY nicely….

Gold Ferrari

Gold Ferrari

What a way to splash out on some cash, getting your Ferrari 599 GTB done in gold!

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Eskae Jewellers Studio Development Stage 3

Published on August 11, 2010 in Eskae Jeweller Studio. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , .

Here it is!

After much designing, working the candle at both ends, very early starts to accommodate various tradesmen we have the Jewellery Studio on the home stretch!

Once the plaster boards went up, the Studio took on a whole new persona, instead of having only a skeleton to look at through the day, we now had a studio with some flesh on it and we could really start to appreciate the spaces that we would be working in.

The studio definitely does not have the biggest square meterage, so how we used each and every single bit of space was of prime importance, as you can see I was pretty happy with the way the spaces have worked out!

Getting the studio cleaned up for the painters to come in and do there work was such a rewarding thing to do as much as it was a pain! Looking back at the first workbench that went in – it felt like such a long journey to get even that far, I am actually shaking my head here thinking “my god, what a journey that was…”

Now I know why people get stressed when they do home renovations!

What a difference a coat of paint make to the place too! When I walked in on the monday morning, it felt so good to have it all looking clean and fresh and crisp with the coat of paint, We still had a fair bit of work to do but it was a nother major step in getting the Eskae Jewellery Studio up and running.

When the lights were installed, the difference that having them on all the time made to how we worked, was huge. We were relying on spotlights that were actually called “day-makers” these were more floodlights than not and the amount of heat that they gave off was unbelievable…

All I will say is this – Let there be light!

I would like to say thank you to Luke Miles from LME Electrical Contracting for their great service and experience in getting all my electrical parts sorted out for me, as you can see they did a stellar job of it.

When the jewellers benches started to go in, it was like the icing on the cake was being prepared. I have selected solid oak timber benches, which have all been finger jointed, and are all made out of recycled timbers. These benches will take a bit of a beating over time so they need to be up for the challenge of the day to day use that being in a jewellers studio will give them. As you can see they are starting to come together well and the all important underside of the benches with the workings of how a jeweller gets his jewellery made is still a little bit early on, but the benches are coming together that is the main thing and a HUGE step towards getting started in the studio.

There will be 1 more video log of the development of the Studio and I hope that you enjoy the stages of the development.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private jeweller

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How to Clean your Jewellery at Home!

Published on July 31, 2010 in Bridal Jewellery, Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Gemstones, Jewellery, Tips for Home, Wedding Jewellery and YouTube. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , .

Here is a great video for you that will demonstrate to you easily – how you can clean your diamond set, gemstone set or plain gold jewellery at home!

I take you through the steps of how you can get a semi professional clean right in the comfort of your own home. Your jewellery will not be polished, but the best advantage of this technique is that all of the grime and layered on dirt will be removed. What this means for you is that the “stuff” that is caked onto your precious diamonds and gens actually gets in the way of light coming through and into the diamond or gemstone. So when this layer of grime is removed, we open the diamond or gemstone up to the full amount of light again, which will significantly enhance the sparkle and brightness of the jewellery you are wearing.

This is best done a little while before you go out to that special party, or event, it will only take you a couple of minutes to do so it really is quick and easy!

Please note CAREFULLY the instructions contained within the video as they must be adhered to for the best result.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Designing your own Custom Engagement Ring

Published on July 27, 2010 in Bridal Jewellery, Coloured Diamonds, Designer Jewellery, Diamonds, Emeralds, Engagement Rings, Jewellery, Pearls, Rubies, Sapphires, Wedding Jewellery and White Diamonds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , .

Designing your own Engagement Ring

A marriage proposal is one of the most important and personal events of a lifetime.  A very special engagement ring will reflect the significance of this event.  When you become engaged, you and your partner can create a lasting symbol of your unique love for each other with a custom engagement ring design. With the help of an experienced jeweller, the process of designing a custom engagement ring will bring you and your loved one closer and help you create a ring that both of you will treasure forever.

The Design Process

Once you’ve decided to create an engagement ring that will reflect you and your partner’s personalities and taste, the next step is to consult a jeweller who specializes in custom engagement ring design.  An experienced jeweller has the technical expertise required to guide you through the design process.  Your jeweller will explain the process to you in simple terms and make sure you have input at every step.  You will gain an understanding and appreciation of how much is involved in custom designing and creation of your engagement ring.

Your jeweller will help you make a series of important design decisions related to ring design, including:

  • Diamonds – Which one is Right for you? – Your jeweller will help run you through what makes a diamond sparkle with “Fire and Brilliance” and how the different characteristics affect the value of the diamond. Diamonds are a traditional choice for engagement rings, but a truly unique design can be created using other types of stones.  Emeralds, rubies and pearls can be striking alternatives to diamonds.
  • The Size and Shape of the Diamond or Gemstone – Once the type of stone is chosen, your jeweller can recommend suitable sizes and shapes.  When recommending a diamond or gemstone, your jeweller will take into account your personalities, what you want to communicate through your engagement ring and a host of other considerations.
  • The Style of the Setting – The design details of the setting will have a major impact on the overall style and look of the ring.  The setting can be traditional, with a clean and crisp look that will allow your diamond or gemstone to sparkle with its own “fire and brilliance” or it may be embellished with side stones, engraving or filigrees, adding more detail and intrigue to the design.
  • Platinum or Gold? – Which one is Best for your Setting? – The setting design, the diamond and gemstones used and the ring budget will determine the best metal for the engagement ring.

After you have expressed your design preferences, your jeweller will create a custom design for your approval.  Many couples have seen another ring that they want to copy, or they may want to combine 2 or 3 design elements from other rings.  If this is the case with your ring design, feel free to bring in drawings or photos to give your jeweller an idea of what you have in mind.  A talented jeweller will incorporate these suggestions into a single cohesive ring design, adding any details that may be needed to complete the design and convey what you would like to have represented in your ring.

The Surprise Engagement Ring

A marriage proposal and engagement ring are often planned as a surprise.  In this case, the design decisions will be made solely by the man.  His fiancée’s lifestyle, looks, body size and shape, personality and taste in jewellery should be taken into account when designing a custom engagement ring.  Family members or close friends can be a great help in creating a design that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Wedding Band Considerations

The design for your wedding bands should be considered when designing your engagement ring, especially if a bridal set consisting of the two rings is desired.  Using similar stones, metals and design motifs is the best way to tie together the engagement and wedding rings.

Generally speaking, if you use a similar design in both engagement ring and wedding bands, you will gain the benefit of having them look they were designed together at the same time.  When the engagement and wedding ring are worn together they will truly look like a matched set and not two unmatched rings that were bought at different times and places and thrown together.

Custom Engagement Ring Budget

You and your partner need to be aware that a custom designed engagement ring may cost a bit more than purchasing a mass market existing design due to the exclusivity of having an engagement ring designed specifically for you.  It’s important to establish a budget and to work with your jeweller to stick with your budget.  Your jeweller will be prepared to offer many suggestions on how to stick with your budget.  Be prepared to listen to your jeweller’s suggestions and work with the options that are presented to you.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller -Your Private Jeweller

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Pink Diamond Investment

Published on July 21, 2010 in Coloured Diamonds, Diamonds, Pink Diamond Investment, Pink Diamonds and YouTube. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , .

This short video sums it all up!

If you are looking for the kind of investment that is what the ultra wealthy make without the vast majority of people knowing – then this is one of them.

Pink diamonds have averaged a 15% increases in value, year on year, for the past 20 years – that is 15% each and every year… for 20 years…

Don’t just take my word for it, watch the video below and then if this is something that is right for you and you want to start making an investment in Pink Diamonds – you will want to contact me through my website http://www.EskaeJeweller.com.au

Your discretion is my focus, and making an investment in Pink Diamonds does have an entry level of $50,000. I have very well established contacts here in Sydney, which means for you, that I am able to supply you with the best available selection given the fact that we are looking at a product with dwindling supply levels.

I have several other bog posts about Pink Diamonds of which the one that sums the situation the most can be found here – http://www.eskaejeweller.com.au/blog/pink-diamonds-set-to-sizzle

Throughout this blog you will also find many posts that point to record breaking sales of pink diamonds throughout the world. The demand is there and these posts prove that fact.

The Argyle Dimaond mine at the moment has put production on hold and has started the next phase of its mining operation – called “piping” where they are drilling verticle holes into the ground so they can access the remaining diamond deposits there. Once they have finished with the piping phase, they will start to drill across the pipes which is called “caverning”

There is a finite amount of Pink Diamond left in the ground in the Argyle mine, which accounts for 90-95% of the worlds pink and coloured diamonds. The investment worth of these rare and magnificent diamonds will esclate in line with the decline in supply.

When would NOW be a good time to start looking at an investment in one of the earths most wonderful creations?

Get in touch with me via my website or  the contact form on the right, so that I can help you make an investment in Pink Diamonds.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Diamonds: Socially Significant

Published on July 20, 2010 in Coloured Diamonds, Diamonds, Wedding Jewellery and White Diamonds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , .

Rumor has it diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but have they always held such status in the eye of the beholder? While it’s true the durability, beauty, rarity and strength of the diamond make it appealing, it also stands as the ultimate symbol of love passion, elegance and glamour.

For centuries, only the wealthiest were able to own diamonds, increasing their status symbol among the rich. In today’s society, diamonds are much more accessible, broadening their appeal for the masses. Even today, however diamonds have saturated the global market, they are viewed as status symbols; the cut and quality of the diamond demonstrating investment made.

This widespread appeal was sparked by the innovative marketing strategy launched by De Beers in the 1930s. This campaign elevated the diamond from the focal point on engagement and wedding rings to the gem of status among those in the public eye. This campaign included the presentation of diamonds to Hollywood starlets, photo shoots and movie productions, asking that the jewels be included in photo opportunities, cover layouts and movie scenes.

In 1947, the same company launched the “A Diamond is Forever” campaign that is still well and alive today, demonstrating the eternal status of love and social placement the diamond represents. While these marketing campaigns launched a whole new home for diamonds among jewelry lovers everywhere – married or not – they also unwittingly created another social platform for establishing status for years to come.

In today’s materialistic society, the classes are not as clearly defined as they once were in previous generations. When De Beers launched their first campaign, cars were not owned by nearly every citizen in an urban area; clothing was not piling up at second hand stores; and flat screen televisions weren’t even a figment of anyone’s imagination.

Today, the possessions of the middle class easily emulate those of the rich, making it more difficult to clearly identify social status. When diamonds enter the picture, however, they are able to take the similarities and separate the two. Diamonds remain today one of the most distinguishable status symbols available, found in mother-baby diamond tennis bracelet sets, 4 carat emerald cut right-hand rings and even the man’s diamond stud earrings.

Each of these items can be considered a symbol of the individual’s status in society, business and life. Many will view their diamond purchase and ownership as a demonstration of success, proof they have arrived into a status that most only dream of and never achieve. Diamonds represent a brilliant beauty that can have no bounds when money is no object.

No matter what the intention is for the purchase of the diamond, the selection of shape, cut and colour depends greatly upon the status it is meant to project. Diamonds truly are a girl’s best friend and a status symbol of love, wealth and happiness. The beauty is that the wearer of the piece gets to decide just what he or she wishing to communicate.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Onyx – A Gemstone of History and Magic

Published on July 14, 2010 in Art Deco Jewellery and Gemstones. 1 Comment Tags: , , , , .

Onyx:  A Gemstone Steeped in History and Magic

There’s something undeniably fascinating about Onyx.

Is it the richness of its colour (typically black, but also sometimes available under the name “sardOnyx” in striped or solid dark/reddish brown, sparkling white or deep red)?  Or could it be the bold statement made by this powerful gemstone?  Whatever the reason, Onyx has enjoyed popularity for millennia and its status shows no signs of waning any time soon!

If you want more information about this semiprecious type of chalcedony, you’ve come to the right place.  Below is all you need to know about Onyx, a terrific way to highlight any necklace, set of earrings, ring, bracelet or other hand-crafted jewelry.

History and Info

The term “Onyx” has Greek origins (meaning “fingernail”, “claw” or “hoof” depending upon the translation), while the term “chalcedony” hails from older Asia Minor roots.  As for the gemstone itself, Onyx’s popularity seemed to grow during the height of the Roman Empire.  During that time, Onyx was often used to create seals and cameos because of its innate carvability.

Today, deposits of Onyx can be found worldwide, including India, the United States, Australia and South America.  Although Onyx is considered a semi-precious stone, those who love it agree that there’s nothing “semi” about it!

Folklore and Legend

From a “mystical” perspective, Onyx is deemed to be the birthstone for December babies.  (In contrast, the “traditional” birthstones for that month are blue topaz and turquoise.)  Onyx is also the Zodiac birthstone for Leos (those born between July 23 and August 22.)

Many people throughout history have believed (and still believe) that Onyx has regenerative powers, increasing happiness and mastery of one’s fate.  In India, it has even been used as a talisman to “cool” passion between lovers who would be better off apart!

Some individuals seeking alternative remedies for their afflictions turn to Onyx to help with bone, heart, kidney, liver, hair, eye, foot, hand and nail conditions by wearing the Onyx close to the intended body part.  However, please be aware that we do not recommend using jewelry to take the place of proper medical care.

Caring for Onyx

If you’ve invested in rich-looking (but ultimately affordable!) Onyx jewelry, it’s important to understand how to take care of it.  Even though it has a Moh’s scale of hardness rating of 6.5-7, it is still quite delicate in some ways.

Onyx can chip or scratch; consequently, it’s important to treat it with care.  Take off any Onyx jewelry when doing physical labour or in the evening.  Additionally, be certain that Onyx jewelry isn’t rubbing against other jewelry in your jewelry box or storage unit.

Is Onyx Right for You?

So… is Onyx the right choice for your next jewelry purchase?

Black Onyx in particular has a strong prominence and history in the Art Deco period, a period where contrast and geometrical shapes were the norm, this beautifully glossy gemstone provided exactly those qualities. Onyx lends itself to being cut into straight lined geometrical shapes as well as being polished to a glossy finish which contrasts perfectly with the pave or bead setting most commonly used in the period.

If you are looking for an Art Deco styled piece of jewellery then it is hard to go past Onyx as something to bring the sophistication and contrast that epitomises the period.

If you like necklaces, rings or earrings that make a bold, elegant statement and command attention, you just may find that Onyx is a perfect addition to your jewelry collection!

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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The History of the Engagement Ring: What It Means to Love

Published on July 10, 2010 in Bridal Jewellery, Designer Jewellery, Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Jewellery and White Diamonds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , .

Whether or not a woman is totally enamored with the size of her diamond engagement ring makes little difference to the story of its existence. Ask any female wearing one on the appropriate finger how she received the precious piece and she won’t have to dig deep to recall the moment of proposal.

While the giving of an engagement ring – complete with diamond or other stone of choice – has been a tradition now for centuries, it has not always been in practice. Like every good tradition or cultural phenomenon, this one too has its beginnings rooted in history. The story of the first engagement ring is one of love and longing and begins in 1477.

Tradition at that time required the woman (of appropriate financial means) to present her betrothed with a diamond ring. This practice was said to demonstrate trust and faith that the woman now belonged to the man and he could take her as his wife. The Archduke Maximilian of Hamburg changed tradition when he presented a diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy.

The love between Mary and the Archduke was said to be so intense, they could not stand to be apart. Just before the two were set to be married, the Archduke was called to war. As an expression of his love and devotion to Mary, he created an engagement ring for her so she could keep something of him close to her while he was away.

While it is likely their love could have withstood the distance between them, the Archduke took no chances and as a result, a new tradition was born. And, even though it took roughly 100 years for the trend to truly emerge, the resulting variety of engagement rings would charm even the most fickle of brides-to-be today.

During the Renaissance period, engagement rings were often set with a single diamond still in its natural crystalline form. Other varieties included multiple diamonds cushioned in settings of rosettes, letters or fleur-de-lys. Inscriptions inside the rings were common and included love notes or posies.

The arrival of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries brought along the popularity of the gimmel ring. This unique set was made of two hoops that would slide together into one ring when it was closed. The fede (Italian for faith) ring was also popular as it was made of two clasped hands. A common centerpiece between the hands was often a rose-cut diamond heart.

During this time, it was only the very wealthy and the noble or royal couples who could afford such luxuries. Diamonds had only been discovered in India and therefore were in short supply and hard to acquire without the necessary means. As a result, many of those betrothed relied on other gems instead of the diamond, while still maintaining the traditional of the engagement ring.

This trend began to change in the eighteenth century, however, as diamonds were discovered in Brazil. Diamond jewelry entered the fashion scene and engagement rings took on a whole new look. Many engagement rings from this period of time included diamond set bows, sprays of flowers and crowned hearts.

Diamond solitaire engagement ring

The importance of the diamond engagement ring took on new meaning in the nineteenth century. The Industrial Revolution created much wealth and newly discovered African diamond mines made the gems available to more people. Popular themes throughout the century surrounded sentiment until Tiffany introduced the six-prong solitaire in 1886.

Over the last 100+ years, engagement rings have taken on many shapes, forms and even stones. An engagement ring is considered a true reflection of the personal taste and style of the woman who wears it, while demonstrating the love and promise between her and the man who presented it.

The engagement ring was traditionally worn on the right hand as the fourth finger was believed to contain a vein that traveled all the way from the heart. This practice – which started in the Greek culture – truly joined the man and the woman at heart. In other cultures, the fourth finger on the left hand is considered to be the proper placement to join the two.

As a society today, we still view the engagement ring as the promise of the intention to marry. It is an important step in the ownership of your own life and seldom has a woman walked down the isle who has not dreamed of her ideal engagement ring. As this emblem was once believed to unite the man and the woman at the heart, it is still a symbol of a love that cannot be broken.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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Elephant Emerald Found!

Published on July 10, 2010 in Emeralds and Gemstones. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , .

WOW!

Emerald - The 6225 carat Elephant Emerald

This is all I can say when I see news of a find like this… I mean 6225 carats of emerald…

Gemfields, one of the world’s leading coloured gemstone producers, has announced the discovery of a 6225 carat rough emerald at its Kagem mine in Zambia.

The emerald was recovered during normal mining operations last month and is now being examined by Gemfields’ experts to “establish a clearer understanding of its value and significance”.

Emerald - Elephant Emerald

For the full story click on the link above and enjoy the read!

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller – Your Private Jeweller

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