David’s gemstone notebook · New Orleans

Explore diamond earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings beyond the proposal. Discover antique details, modern silhouettes and pieces that turn an ordinary day into an occasion.

Choosing a piece is easier when you know what to notice and which questions to ask. Use this guide as a starting point, then ask us about the specific item that catches your eye.

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Diamond, at a glance.

Cut

How light returns.

For a faceted diamond, proportions and craftsmanship influence its appearance. Cut is different from shape.

Color

Know the description.

White diamonds and fancy-color diamonds use different approaches to describing color.

Clarity

Details within.

Clarity considers inclusions and surface characteristics. A report should refer to the specific stone.

Carat

A measure of weight.

Carat weight is not a measurement of visible size. Check whether a listing states center or total weight.

Choose with the whole piece in mind.

Choose the way you’ll wear it.

Consider earrings for everyday light, a bracelet for movement, a necklace close to the heart or a ring with presence.

Confirm the diamond’s identity.

Ask whether it is natural or laboratory-grown, what treatments are known and which reports are available.

Look at the whole design.

Notice cut, setting, condition and proportions together. A number or grade alone cannot describe an entire piece.

Ask about fit and fastenings.

Check bracelet length, clasp security, earring backs and ring size, plus any suitable adjustment options.

Identity, treatment and documentation.

Natural and laboratory-grown diamonds are different origin categories; diamond simulants are different materials. Ask about origin category, detectable treatments and the report for the exact stone. Diamond is 10 on the Mohs scratch scale, but it can still chip and a setting can still wear.

Ask what is known, what remains unconfirmed, and whether the information is supported by documentation. An independent gemological report can help address identification and detectable treatments. It is different from an appraisal and does not promise a resale value.

Bring these questions to the conversation.

  1. What is known about the material, its origin as natural or laboratory-grown where applicable, and any treatments?
  2. What are the exact dimensions, and does any stated weight describe one stone or the total?
  3. What is the metal, and what is known about the age and condition of the piece?
  4. Can I see additional photos or a video in ordinary lighting?
  5. What fit, fastening, stringing or resizing details should I consider?
  6. What documentation is available for this exact item, and which purchase policies apply?

Include the item number when you contact us. Details from one piece should not be assumed to apply to another.

Care for the entire piece.

A mild soap solution and a soft brush may suit an untreated diamond in a sound setting, but companion stones and treatments can change the method. Avoid harsh chemicals and hard blows. Have prongs and clasps checked, and ask before steam or ultrasonic cleaning of vintage or treated pieces.

The most delicate material, treatment or construction detail may determine the right method. A gemstone’s scratch hardness does not mean the setting is safe from damage. Check clasps, stringing and prongs regularly, and stop wearing a piece if a stone is loose or a fastening is unreliable.

Make it part of your own style.

A little light, close to you.

A diamond necklace or pendant can sit simply at the neckline, alone or beside a favorite chain.

Make everyday sparkle easy.

Earrings bring light near the face. Check the size and backs for the way you like to wear them.

Let the wrist do the talking.

A bracelet moves with you, while a vintage ring adds its own character. Keep the surrounding look simple.

April’s birthstone. Everyday reasons to celebrate.

Choose diamond jewelry for an April birthday, an anniversary, a personal achievement or a moment that deserves a little light. For a proposal, explore our dedicated engagement ring page.

The meanings associated with gemstones belong to cultural traditions and personal interpretation. They are not established medical benefits or guarantees of protection, luck or financial results.

Make a plan for the piece you love.

David’s offers layaway with a 20% non-refundable deposit, no interest and up to 12 months to pay. Read the full layaway policy and watch the video for payment, clearance and inactivity conditions before starting.

Your next discovery awaits.

Browse online or visit David’s Antiques & Jewelry at 322 Royal Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter. For a question about a piece, text David’s with its item number.

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General guidance only; identity, condition, treatment history and care needs depend on the individual item.

— David’s Antiques & Jewelry