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HomeMy WebLinkAboutClinton News-Record, 1984-02-22, Page 45olitaire is practical choice Diamonds are forever, the saying goes, ut only if some care is devoted to their hoice. Before selecting a diamond ring, an engaged couple should take the time to learn as much-as'possible aboutthisinostpopular of- all -symbols:_of.everlastingJloYe,_`sa athe. diamond information centre. The agency suggests that the couple first consider buying a ring with a solitaire set- ting, not only because of the esthetic effect ' of the single gem but because of its practical value. With a solitaire, the price is solely determined by the size of the centre stone. When buying, four factors should be con- sidered onsidered — carat weight, color, clarity and cut. Carat — This is the unit of weight used for diamonds. The word carat is derived from the carob seeds which were used in balance scales in ancient times. There are 100 points in a carat, thus a diamond of 27 points weighs slightly more than a quarter carat. The average rough diamond• weighs less than a carat. Because the larger stones are rare, they have a greater value per carat. Color — A diamond may be any color, but most diamonds are white, with a hint of col- or. Completely colorless diamonds are rare, hence more valuable. Like a prism, a cut and polished diamond breaks light into every color in the spectrum. Clarity Most diamonds contain natural imperfections, spots or bubbles formed when the carbon was crystallized. millions of years ago. 'Where such "inclusions" do not interfere materially with the passage of Travel suits.... light through the stone, they do not affect its beauty; the fewer the inclusions, the more valuable the diamond. Extremely rare is the flawless:, diamond - one that shows no la -power magnification, Gtit 'The-diamond's-beauty-depends-on— the way it reacts to light for brilliance and reflection (or the twinkling effect). The "cut" relates to the way the facets are plac- ed to handle light for maximum beauty. While a diamond is the hardest substance known to man, it may lose some of its lustre from the daily use of lotions, powders and soaps. Here are some cleaning methods recommended by the diamond information centre: o Detergent bath. Prepare a small bowl of warm suds with any of the mild liquid detergents used in the home. Immerse dia- mond ring and brush gem with an eyebrow brush, then transfer it to a wire tea strainer and rinse under warm running water. Pat dry with a soft line -free cloth. • Cold water soak. Make a half-and-half solution of cold water and household am- monia in a cup. ,Soak diamond ring 30 minutes, then remove and tap gently around the back and front of the mounting with an eyebrow brush. Swish ring in the solution once more, then remove and drain on tissue paper. • Quick dip. Buy a brand name jewelry cleaning kit and follow instructions on the label. Once the diamond is clean, try to avoid handling it with. your fingers. •from page 20 blazer with minimal details, replacing year's 'popular ruffles and puffed sleeves. Jacket silhouettes fall straight from the shoulder, with neat notched lapels or slim shawl -collars:Play--up -The-Domantie--mood-w-ith --a linen handerkerchief peeping from a breast pocket. Poconos honeymoon •from page 20 Whatever a couple's expectations may be, whether for a perfect two-week honeymoon that will be remembered for a lifetime or a weekend alone with each other, the Poconos couples resorts provide just the right setting and mood. (We are doing (Wengs again ttf Olchnia11--� HENSALL. ONTARIO (519) 262-2530 BRIDES EDITION '84 PAGE 25 Swiss Dot: Large brim picture hat features pouf and veil trimmed with swiss dot. Hat by Letteau's Bridal Boutique. Photography by Fitzgerald Studios. BAECHLER MUhuta I We have what you're searching dor! Air 150 SHOPPERS SQUARE