Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II

The Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II is the international celebration that marks the 60^th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the thrones of seven countries, after the death of her father, King George VI, on February 6, 1952. The 85 year old monarch’s restrained behaviour and devotion to duty have maintained her popularity with the masses. Queen Elizabeth II renewed her vow to serve, as she made a low-key start to five months of diamond jubilee celebrations.

 The Diamond Jubilee celebrations will take place over a ‘four day’ weekend between June 2 and June 5, 2012, to commemorate the Coronation that took place on June 2, 1953

British crown jewels, left to right: the Imperial State Crown, St. Edward's Crown, the Crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, and the Sovereign's Orb.

At her Coronation, Queen Elizabeth II wore the famous Imperial State Crown, which is 31.5cm high, weighs 0.91kg and is set with over 3,000 precious stones, featuring the 317 carat Cullinan II diamond. This crown incorporates many famous gemstones, including the Second Star of Africa diamond, which is the  second largest diamond cut from the celebrated Cullinan Diamond. The crown also includes the Black Prince’s Ruby, the Stuart Sapphire, St Edward’s Sapphire and Queen Elizabeth’s Pearls. It was re-made for the coronation of the Queen’s father, King George VI, using the old Imperial Crown.              The Crown Jewels, are part of the Royal Collection, and are publically displayed to visitors in the Tower of London.

The only other Diamond Jubilee celebrated by a British monarch was in 1897 in the reign of Queen Victoria. During Queen Elizabeth’s sixty year reign there have been 12 British prime ministers, 12 U.S. presidents and six popes.

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds. Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship. View the Say Yes Diamond Guarantee.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

Dream Diamonds: Kardashian engagement rings are doubling in size

Square diamond shapes are gaining  popularity, and doubling in size for the Kardashian sisters.

Photo credit: Allpix/Splash News Online; Inset: Nick Saglimbeni

Recent spotlight has been on Kim Kardashian and what will happen to her diamond engagement ring received from Kris Humphries, featuring a 16.5 carat emerald shaped center stone flanked by two 2-carat trapezoids, which has been rumored to cost somewhere around $2 million.  Everything bigger, seems to be better in Hollywood.

 

 

 

Kim Kardashians’ ring features an emerald shaped diamond, which is a rectangular shape with cut corners.

Emerald shaped diamonds are preferred for their art deco design and luster. The broad flat facets that resemble stair steps make this diamond traditionally known as the step cut. This unique optical appearance will highlight the colour and clarity of the diamond. Emerald shaped diamonds will compliment a woman with longer fingers.

Photo credit: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images North America

But before Kim’s diamond that covered most of her finger, Lamar Odom proposed to Khloe Kardashian with a 9 carat, radiant solitaire diamond, set on a platinum pave band engagement ring, totaling a reported 12.5 carats at a value of $850,000.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Khloe Kardashians’ radiant diamond shape is a contemporary mixed cut that offers fire and brilliance of the modern round cut with the elegant lines of the emerald. Radiant diamonds can vary in their degree of rectangularity giving you the option of a more square or rectangular stone. Trimmed corners make this cut a popular and versatile choice for fine jewelry.  This shape is a nice alternative to a princess or a cushion shaped diamond. A radiant shaped diamond is commonly set with a baguette or round diamonds on the side.

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds. Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship. View the Say Yes Diamond Guarantee.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

 

Dream Diamonds: Catherine Zeta-Jones’ 10 carat marquise diamond

Photo credit: WireImage

Michael Douglas gave Catherine Zeta-Jones this antique marquis cut diamond engagement ring. 

The ring features a 10 carat diamond center stone, which is surrounded by 28 additional diamonds around the main stone and around the band. Catherine Zeta-Jones’ ring was estimated to be valued at $2 million.

The marquise diamond is known for its elongated shape and narrow cut, which can give the marquise diamond the illusion of a larger looking diamond, while making fingers appear long and slender.

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds. Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship. View the Say Yes Diamond Guarantee.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

Dream Diamonds: Halle Berry’s diamond and emerald engagement ring

Halle Berry was first pictured with a ring on her wedding finger at the end of December, leading to speculation of a proposal by Olivier Martinez.

She has been careful to keep the ring turned around to look like a plain band in recent weeks; however a rep for jewelry designer Gurhan has confirmed to People magazine that Martinez has given her a diamond and emerald engagement ring.

Engaged or not, Halle Berry’s ring confirms that coloured stones are here to stay. Used to complement diamonds in engagement rings, or as main features of fashion jewellery, gem stones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires make a unique statement of individuality.

 

 

 

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds.

Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship. View the Say Yes Diamond Guarantee.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

Top 7 Jewellery Trends for Valentines Day 2012

Every season runways and red carpets around the world develop trends. Showcasing jewellery glamour, diamonds to dream of, and captivating colour combinations.

Trends shift, but expressing individuality by accessorizing, never goes out of style. In diamonds or pearls, silver or gold, this Valentines day, the hottest trend is choosing a statement jewellery piece that reflects your loved one. View the 2012 Valentines Day Jewellery Gift Guide for Women & Men.

Top Jewellery Trends for 2012:

1. Geometric Shapes:    Angular pieces like square rings and bangles will work well against simple clothing and jewellery  pieces. Architecturally inspired jewellery is versatile for men and women and is an affordable way to maximize any wardrobe. For men, geometric rings, like the Mens Couture Faceted Band by Say Yes ($135), can be worn on the finger or added to a leather  cord for a fashionable, urban spin. 

 2. Colour Blocking:       The Pantone Colour of the year for 2012 is Tangerine Tango, driving jewellery trends into a range of offerings such as citrine and fire opal.  Colour Blocking can be achieved by coordinating other bright colours with tangerine tango in the form of blue shades of turquoise, navy, blue, aqua, dark blue, green and purple. This Say Yes Blue Sapphire Eternity Band in 14K White Gold ($790) is a brilliant way to add sparkle to your colour block.

This colourful trend marks birthstone jewellery as the ideal sentimental and trendy gift this year.

3. Yellow Gold and Stones: The rich gold color was a familiar sight on spring runways. Decadently embellished items are adding drama and generating a main statement that will be the showstoppers everyone is hunting this year. This three gold tone rolling ring by Say Yes ($595) combines Yellow, Rose, and White 14K Gold in one bold statement piece that suited for daily accessorizing.

 

4. Pearls: Pearls are a staple, having adorned many icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Pearls never go out of style and are versatile in any wardrobe in the form of earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces.   They are an instant touch of classic for day or night. Pearls can also be worn with edgy metals and other ornaments to have that feel of “warrior princess” but still exuding glamour. 

Pearls have been increasingly popular with men, adorning cufflinks and making pearls a staple for the classic man. These Say Yes cufflinks ($99.99) feature mother of pearl and are an affordable way to make a classic statement.

5. Bold Bracelets: The embellished cuff design has remained a significant jewellery statement. Metal cuffs in multiple styles are bold when worn together, but can individually be pieced out for a versatile look.

6. Rings Taking Over Hands: This eye catching style embellishes the individual cocktail ring by clustering multiple rings with various materials such as diamonds, pearls and gemstones for the most glamorous effect that stretches your budget.

7. Earrings for all: A hit on the red carpet this year and a must have in any wardrobe are button-style and stud earrings. Available from the modest silver ball earrings, Say Yes Sterling Silver Ball Earrings 3mm- 10 mm (starting at $28) to a luxurious diamond encrusted showstopper like the Say Yes Diamond Pave Ball Earrings in 18K White Gold ($2,180), this trend is accessible at all price points and will accessorize any outfit for day and night wear.

Hoops and Chandelier earrings have remained a staple from 2011 and will continue to be seen as a must have item in  2012. Hoop earrings are a versatile palette for classic or embellished designs.  Hoops vary in size, making the earrings suited for every taste. For an elegant evening look,  chandelier earrings will glimmer and dazzle with diamonds or extreme rhinestone palettes like scorching pinks, reds, greens and yellows to produce a striking contrast that will give any vogue search a touch of glamour.

Valentines Day is a wonderful opportunity to give your love a memorable piece of timeless and fashionable jewellery for your loved one.  Don’t forget the most personalized part of the gift is the engraving of initials, your song lyrics, or a sentimental phrase.

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds. Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship. View the Say Yes Guarantee.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

Diamond quality makeover

Say Yes Diamonds has been so busy pleasing clients and as a result, we have taken very little “me” time. We have undergone a much needed refreshed makeover on our Say Yes Diamonds website, which features fine high-end jewellery at exclusive prices and our blog. And now we’re sparkling brighter than ever!

Say Yes jewellery sources only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship, creating exquisite, timeless jewellery.

Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity.

Say Yes men’s and women’s fashion and bridal jewellery collections and personalized, custom diamond jewellery are designed by Alan Delides. 

The Toronto jewellery designer and diamond specialist fuses classic elegance with modern inspiration; creating exquisite, timeless jewellery.

Alan Delides is a diamond specialist, designer and owner of Say Yes Diamonds. Alan brings his passion for design and understanding of client needs to realize your vision and budget. Say Yes jewellery is created locally, ethically and with integrity, using only the finest materials with uncompromising passion for design and craftsmanship.

Alan Delides holds an Accredited Diamond Specialist-‘Graduate Diamonds’ certification from the Gemological Institute of America and has been working with diamonds with 400+ of Canada’s and international jewellery brands.

For inquiries or to book your free consultation at a Say Yes studio, contact Alan Delides G. D. at 416-566-9133 or alan@sayyesdiamonds.com, or connect with Say Yes Diamonds on Facebook.

First Diamond found in South Africa mistaken for a toy

South Africa is one of the top producers of diamonds, providing us with some of the largest diamonds worldwide. Long before the Cullinan, also known as the Star of Africa weighting in at 530.20 carats and adorning the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom got credited for jump starting the diamond industry, the Eureka was the first authentic diamond discovered in South Africa. “Eureka” in Greek translates to “I found it!” a fitting name to a diamond discovered by chance in child’s play.

In 1866, a young 15 year old farmers son, Erasmus Jacobs was playing outside when a stone caught his eye. Unaware of the value and rarity of the gem, he gave the pretty pebble to his sister.

During a fellow farmers’ visit with the Jacobs, the mysterious sparkle caught Schalk Van Niekerks eye as well. Offering to purchase the gem, he was instead given the stone in good faith. Van Niekerk made several attempts to discover the pebbles’ true identity. Unsuccessful, he finally passed the gem on in trust to a local hunter and trader John O’Reilly.

It was in O’Reilly’s hands that the suspected the “pebble” was given the long overdue praise of a diamond by a physician of minerals who deemed the stone a Diamond weighing in at 21.25cts with a projected value of £500.

The Eureka made its way to London, where to detract thieves; a crystal replica was proudly displayed at the Paris Exposition 1867. Soon after its showcase, the rough piece was passed on to a diamond specialist where it was professionally planed and cut into a 10.73ct oval brilliant cut, then valued at £800.

Rising in value over time, in 1947, The Eureka came into Christies Auction House set in a bracelet and sold for £5,700. A hundred years after its discovery, in 1966, DeBeers purchased The Eureka and took it back to its home, where the diamond is displayed at the Open Mine Museum in Kimberley, South Africa, also going by the name of O’Reilly, after the man who gave a pebble the true claim to fame a diamond deserved.

Say Yes offers high end style at exclusive prices.
Specializing in engagement rings, wedding bands and custom diamond jewellery with Accredited Certification.
Realizing your vision and budget!

Inquiries or to book your free consultation
Phone:416 566 9133
E-mail: alan@sayyesdiamonds.com

Bedazzle your Blackberry – world most expensive smart phone encrusted in diamonds

Expect five star treatment and some diamond envy from your boss when you pull out this diamond encrusted Blackberry in your board meeting.

Alexander Amosu is renowned for his work on high end gadgets and opulent luxury objects. Following suit, his latest creation, a diamond encrusted version of the Blackberry is the world’s most expensive smart phone, retailing at $ 240, 000 for high end glamour.

The device took 350 hours to custom build. It is finely crafted in solid 18 carat yellow gold and encrusted with an astounding 4,459 brilliant cut diamonds, totaling 28.43 carats. This designer Blackberry handset can be personalized with the owners name and features a 24 hour global concierge service to accommodate your every search in real time.

Petra Diamonds recovers one of World’s Largest Diamonds

One of the world’s 20 largest high-quality white diamonds was recovered by Petra Diamonds on September 24 at the Cullinan mine in South Africa.

The diamond is predicted to be worth about $ 20 Million totals 507.55 carats. The diamond is the size of a chicken egg and upon initial examination is indicated to be of exceptional colour and clarity according to Petra Diamonds. It was mined alongside other significantly sized diamonds, including 168 carats, 58.50 carats and 53.30 carats diamonds.

Naked Hope – The Diamond Bares All

The Hope Diamond is displayed without a jeweled setting. (By Pablo Martinez Monsivais -- Associated Press)

Mystery and enigma surrounds the Hope Diamond, from the royal courts of France to owners who met unfortunate ends, to the hands of Harry Winston who gave the diamond a pedestal on which to be admired at the Smithsonian.

To celebrate 50th anniversary at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C, the Hope Diamond went bare yesterday. For the first time the diamond will be displayed as a standalone gem with no setting until April.