So, to wrap up our Tiffany Week here on Jewelsnob, I thought it appropriate to highlight what makes a Tiffany diamond so special. Prior to my visit with Frank Everett at the Tiffany boutique in Beverly Hills, I wasn't really aware of what differentiates a Tiffany diamond from others. I am now 'schooled' and have a greater appreciation for Tiffany in general.
Evidently, for Tiffany & Co., it all has to do with cut and clarity. (Two of the well known 4 C's). The most famous Tiffany cut is represented by one of the largest naturally colored yellow diamonds ever found, weighing 287.42 carats and featuring 90 facets, which is on display at the New York City boutique. Tiffany's diamonds are cut for brilliance, not size. In addition, Tiffany's standards of grading are significantly stricter than those of their competitors. While certain occlusions are acceptable for the VS and VVS categories, Tiffany holds its diamonds to a higher standard, allowing for less occlusions and prettier stones overall.
Makes sense to me.
Pictured here are three of Tiffany & Co.'s Statement Diamonds Rings in platinum settings. From left: round diamond ring, 8.25 carats, D color, internally flawless, $2,300,000; pear-shaped diamond ring, 6.03 carats, D color, VS1, $575,000; cushion-shaped diamond ring, 8.52 carats, E color, VS1, $800,000.
Talk about making a statement. You might need a bodyguard to sport one of these babies.
I used to be fascinated by the little blue box . . . when I was in high school. And then my MIL who worked at Christie's informed me that about 15 years back, Tiffany's was caught doctoring their diamonds. Kerplunk!
And a close friend who works for Tiffany's actually told me that if she were to buy a diamond, she would only buy from blue nile (online) or costco. If you've done your research, and know what you are looking for, you get much more value elsewhere.
I was always told to go by the papers at a reputable site, not by your own eyes. Costco does have surprisingly good values when it comes to gemstones.
Tiffany doesn't thrill me as it did in the past.
Very interesting site. Hope it will always be alive!,