Happy birthday to our April readers and customers! Do you want to learn more about your specific birthstone? Let us share some interesting facts with you about April’s much coveted birthstone: the diamond. If you are new to birthstones and you want to learn all about their history and meaning, read “Do you know your birthstone and its meaning?”
Birthstones are very popular to wear as jewelry and most date back to ancient times when civilizations believed that gemstones had incredible powers such as health, luck and prosperity. And the fun of birthstones is you can enjoy them whether it’s your birthstone month or not!
Our customers often bring in gemstone jewelry to our four Albert’s Pawn stores. We also sell jewelry on our online store. Make sure you visit us regularly because our inventory changes daily in all of our stores. You don’t want to miss finding a bargain favorite gemstone that is just waiting for you!
APRIL BIRTHSTONE: DIAMOND
As long as people have been finding and polishing natural gemstones, we have been attracted to the beauty and variety of minerals and precious stones. One in particular captures a lot of attention: the natural diamond. First traded in India in the 4th century BC, the gems made their way to Venice, Italy via the Silk Road. When artisans began cutting diamonds back in the 1300s, the magical way a good quality diamond catches and reflects the light also captured the attention of those who could afford them.
Long ago some believed diamonds had special power to heal or ward off evil. But even without those qualities, discerning customers are influenced by the “wow factor” of well-cut diamonds set in jewelry that enhanced its showy attributes. Even today, the price you pay for a diamond is widely tied to the 4 Cs: Color, Cut, Clarity and Karat (I know that’s not a C but it sounds like one so they just go with it!). To learn more about the 4 Cs, read our blog 4 Cs of Diamond Quality.
Another factor to consider when purchasing a quality diamond is the symmetry or geometric angles of the cut. Some believe this is the most important thing, and you can read more about that in our blog When Purchasing a Diamond, Should I Consider Symmetry?
A diamond can be a big investment and it’s important to trust your source. At Albert’s Pawn we have A Certified Diamond Gemologist on Staff to help you choose the perfect diamond for you.
WHEN TO GIVE A DIAMOND
Giving a diamond has become common for couples when they get engaged. Also the pre-engaged “Promise” ring is most often a diamond. Yet there are many varieties of diamond jewelry in earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings that say I Love You without committing a lifetime! Nothing makes a special event like a graduation, holiday or anniversary more special than surprising your loved one with a stunning piece of diamond jewelry that will thrill forever.
And there’s nothing to stop any successful person from purchasing their own exquisite piece of diamond jewelry! If you want to treat yourself, Albert’s Pawn will help you find the right piece at the right price for you.
DURABILITY & CARE
The nature of a diamond is created from incredible pressure of carbon over millions of years. The result is a gem that is a 10 out of 10 on the Moh’s Hardness Test which means it is very resistance to scratching. While is it hard, it is also brittle and can chip if struck so it’s important to properly care for your diamond.
You can clean your diamond in a commercial cleaner but simply using a lint free cloth, warm water and a mild soap work wonders as well. If the sparkle looks diminished, it’s just dirty from oils and what not that have come in contact with your jewelry. A very soft toothbrush can restore the beauty in no time. For more information about cleaning jewelry, read our blog How To Clean Your Jewelry Like A Pro.
When storing you diamond jewelry, it is best to put it away snuggled in a clean soft cloth to protect it and your other gems from chipping or scratching less hard gems.
OTHER BIRTHSTONES
If you want to read about other birthstones, click on the month here: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December.
Stop by one of Albert’s four locations to find the perfect birthstone that you are looking for! Albert’s has been family owned and operated since 1927. No matter what part of the Tri-Cities you’re in, we have a location to serve you. With four Albert’s Pawn locations (Downtown Johnson City, North Johnson City, Bristol, and Kingsport) and online, getting top dollar for your items for pawn loans and finding that item you’ve been looking for at an unbeatable price has never been easier. Stop by and see why Albert’s Pawn is the premier pawnshop in the area.
