the diamond grading report

Diamond certificates, or certs, as they are known in the diamond industry, are often called the fifth C, in addition to the well-known 4Cs of diamond stones: carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. A diamond certificate is the evaluation by a third-party, not by either the diamond buyer or seller. Unfortunately, an 3rd party certification is necessary, as it would be easy for an unscrupulous jeweller to take advantage of an uninformed buyer and sell a stone, which might be sold with higher qualities and value than it really does. While many of the diamond grader's certifications might be different from the next, the following are a list of the most commonly used diamond graders in North America:

• Hoge Raad voor Diamant (HRD) - Commonly referred to as the "Diamond High Council" is one of the highest standards in diamond grading. HRD's diamond certificates are considered legal documents in the European Union.
• Gemological Institute of America (GIA) - Is a non-profit organization that created the "4 C's" methodology as well as the International Diamond Grading System. Reports from this institute omit certain aspects of diamond cuts that other reports cover (e.g. crown height percentage, pavilion depth percentage, crown angle, pavilion angle). Keep in mind that GIA issues reports - not certificates.
• American Gemological Society (AGS) - Certifies diamonds based on their cut grade on a rating scale from 0 (most desirable) - 4 (least desirable). AGS is now more widely used for gemstone grading rather then diamond grading. 
• European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) - Has the least amount of structure in comparison to the above graders. EGL is an independent network of diamond grading laboratories. Grading standards tent to vary from one labe to another, making EGL less desirable and trusted than HRD, GIA, and AGS grading reports. 




As there are relatively less restrictions in diamond grading than any other retail industry it really is a buyer-beware market. Select a jeweller that will educate you on your stone and allow you to view the diamond loose. By hand selecting your stone and viewing the stones flaws under a microscope you are ensuring yourself that you are making an educated decision. Diamond qualities can vary from grading, report, and certification and it's beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.

a man's band

As a custom design studio, we've learned that there really is endless opportunities. Jewellers tend to focus more on the women's engagement ring whilst there really is more options for men's bands than most people know. Of course style, affordability, and comfort are top of mind in most groom-to-bes but ring metal and material might be a more difficult decision than you might think.  Besides your basic platinum, gold, and sterling silver we've compiled a little bit of information on a few of our most popular up and coming alloys.

TUNGSTEN CARBIDE

This specially engineered, exclusively patented metal formulation is a unique blend of tungsten and carbon that creates a material that's one of the hardest materials used in jewelry. In fact, Tungsten Carbide TC.850TM is ten times harder than gold. As one of the most popular choices for men's wedding bands (second only to Gold), Tungsten Carbide is hypoallergenic and known for being the most scratch-resistant metal choice, ensuring your ring will retain its natural color and alluring luster for as long as you own it. The superior formulation of Tungsten Carbide TC.850TM is only available at licensed jewelers

TITANIUM

Sleek. Timeless. Cool. Titanium is often referred to as the "space age metal" for its low density, strong, lustrous, corrosion-resistant surface, and rich grey coloring. As strong as some steels, but 45% lighter in weight, titanium possesses the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal.

COBALT

Cobalt is a hypoallergenic and tarnish resistant bright white metal that has been used in jewelry for hundreds of years. This strong, solid contemporary metal is durable, dense, and similar in weight to gold. Rich in shine and sophistication, it's a solid material that evokes classic masculinity and strength.

STAINLESS STEEL

Rugged and refined, stainless steel is one of the most popular metals used in jewelry and watch-making today. Its familiar luster and stain resistant properties make it an easy, low maintenance choice that looks great and will last for years. Triton jewelry features the highest quality stainless steel, 316L, which does not rust and has increased resistance to corrosion.

DIAMONDS

Born from coal, diamonds are the hardest known naturally occurring substance on earth, so hard in fact it is the standard that all other materials are measured against. Diamonds are used in a wide variety of industries for its superior abilities in precision cutting and as strong abrasives. Having few weaknesses and many strengths, diamonds have earned their status as the world's most popular gem and are available in many colors, even black.