Are Six prongs safer than four?

Prongs are the most important structural part of a ring. But prongs can easily get snagged on everyday objects (car door handles, waste bin lids and even sweaters) that can pull them away from the diamond they’re securing. So the logic holds that the more prongs you have, the more likely they will get caught on something. I’m not suggesting this is a reason to avoid six prongs, because they do add a stunning detail to many engagement rings. Just be aware that you should be a bit more cautious when enjoying your ring.

What’s the largest diamond you have ever held in you hand?

In 1988, Francois Curiel, Head Jewelry Auctioneer at Christie’s auction house, placed the stone known as The Incomparable — a shield step-cut flawless, Fancy Deep Brownish-Yellow diamond, weighing in at 407.78 carats — in my hand. Unbelievably, it was cut from an original rough diamond weight of 890 carats! Though the bidding went up to $12 million, the diamond did not sell at that time. It is currently set within The Mouawad L'Incomparable Diamond Necklace, the most valuable necklace in the world.

Are diamonds the hardest substance on this planet?

Yes, they absolutely are. Hardness is described scientifically as resistance to scratching. You cannot scratch a diamond unless it’s with another diamond. Toughness is another story however. You can chip or even break a diamond. Keep your ring safe in its original box if you are going rock climbing or working out at the gym!

Is glass cleaner the best way to clean my engagement ring?

It makes perfect sense to consider cleaning your ring with glass cleaner, since it contains ammonia, which does a good job. However, once you realize that diamonds have an affinity for grease, you’ll find there’s a better solution. Diamonds get dirty in the normal course of a day from things like hand lotion, natural body oils, and common hand soap. Liquid dish detergent is the most effective way to cut through grease. Add a few drops of your favorite detergent to a small amount of very warm water and soak your ring for 20 minutes. Then use a soft-bristled toothbrush and really get up and under the bottom and sides of your diamond. That’s where the grime will accumulate. The top cleans very easily. Rinse under warm water and watch your diamond shine!

when is a good time to begin thinking about a wedding band?

Perhaps surprisingly, the perfect time to begin thinking about a wedding band is when we are designing the engagement ring. If they will be worn together on the same finger, I will design them accordingly so that they will sit flush with one another.