How To Choose The Perfect Diamond Pendant: Style, Setting, And Sparkle
Jewellery Tips | Jewellery Buying Guides
This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.
Congratulations! Your order qualifies for free shipping Free Worldwide Delivery on All Orders
×
An Ethical And Cost-Effective Choice +
An Lab diamonds are a sustainable option for consumers concerned about the ecological implications of diamond production. They are produced without the damaging environmental impact associated with traditional diamond mining practices. Not only are lab grown diamonds a cost-effective alternative to mined diamonds, but they are also a more environmentally responsible and ethical choice.
Your Responsible Jewellery Choice+
At After Diamonds, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality, beautiful diamond jewellery that aligns with their values. All our lab grown diamond pieces are set in metals that have been responsibly sourced. We are dedicated to using environmentally friendly production methods throughout our supply chain. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, a pair of earrings, or another special piece of jewellery, we have a range of options to suit your style and budget. So why not choose a lab grown diamond today, and enjoy all the benefits of this innovative and sustainable choice.
Shape Alters The Visual Size of the Diamond+
It is important to note that the weight of a diamond is not the only factor affecting its apparent size. The shape of the diamond also plays a significant role in how we perceive its size. For example, a pear shape diamond of one-carat weight will appear larger than a round diamond of the same weight. This is because the round diamond has a smaller surface area. In contrast, the pear-shaped diamond has a more elongated shape and greater surface area when viewed in its setting.
Therefore, when selecting a diamond, you should consider its weight and shape. By choosing a diamond with the right combination of weight and shape, you can ensure that your diamond will look beautiful and sparkling for years to come.
The diamond shapes with the largest visual size are pear, marquise and ovals.
Check our interactive diamond size app to see the effect of diamond shape and carat weight on the size of a diamond as you see it in a piece of jewellery.
Diamond shape +
Diamonds come in various shapes. Each with its unique character and appeal. Sometimes, jewellers use the term diamond cut rather than diamond shape. Here are the most popular diamond shapes used in diamond jewellery, ranked by popularity:
Round +
The round diamond is the most popular diamond shape, and it's easy to see why. It has a classic, timeless look and is very bright, with excellent brilliance and lots of sparkle. The round diamond is a perfect choice for an engagement ring or other special piece of jewellery.
Princess +
The princess-cut diamond is popular for its modern, angular shape and excellent fire and sparkle. The princess cut is square in shape, sometimes extending to a rectangle. Princess-cut diamonds are often used in engagement rings and other jewellery pieces for their elegant, sophisticated look.
Oval +
The oval diamond is similar to the round diamond but with a more elongated modern and classic shape. Oval diamonds are chosen for their unique appearance and ability to create the illusion of a larger diamond.
Pear +
The pear-shaped diamond is a beautiful, versatile diamond shape popular for its unique silhouette and attractive, flowing lines. Pear-shaped diamonds are often used in pendants, earrings, and other jewellery for their distinctive appearance.
Emerald +
The emerald-cut diamond is a classic, elegant shape with clean lines and excellent clarity. Emerald-cut diamonds are often used in engagement rings and other jewellery for their sophisticated and timeless look.
Marquise +
The marquise-cut diamond is an elongated, pointed diamond shape often used to create the illusion of a larger diamond. Many people choose marquise-shaped diamonds for rings because they tend to accentuate the length of the wearer's fingers. Marquise-cut diamonds are liked for their unique appearance. They are often used in engagement rings and other special pieces of jewellery. Selecting a well-cut diamond that will provide maximum brilliance and sparkle is essential, no matter what diamond shape you choose. Choosing a high-quality diamond ensures that your diamond jewellery will look beautiful and last a lifetime.
What Does A Diamond Grading Report Tell You? +
The IGI grading report is a detailed document that gives information about the diamond's weight, shape, colour, clarity, and cut. The report also includes a diagram of the diamond showing any flaws or inclusions. There is also a close-up picture of the diamond.
In addition to providing valuable information about the diamond, the IGI grading report can also help to ensure that the diamond is being sold at a fair price. By comparing the information in the report to the diamond's market value, consumers can decide if it is a good value for its price.
IGI are the world's leading lab created diamond grading specialists.
Make Sure You Get A Good Deal+
Ultimately, IGI diamond grading certificates or reports are a handy tool for people who want to buy a diamond. These certificates tell you important things about the diamond, like how good it is and what it looks like. They also help ensure that the diamond is sold at a fair price.
By investing in a diamond with an IGI grading report, you can be confident in your purchase and enjoy your diamond for many years to come.
At After Diamond, we provide an IGI diamond grading report for most of our diamond jewellery with a central diamond weighing half a carat or more.
Pros And Cons Of Each Precious Metal+
Each metal has its own advantages and disadvantages in jewellery making. Gold is durable and resistant to tarnishing but is also more expensive. Silver is affordable and easy to work with but may tarnish over time. Platinum is hypoallergenic and does not tarnish, but it is also the most expensive of the three metals.
Silver is a relatively soft metal. When choosing silver for jewellery, try to use it for pieces that will not be subjected to hard knocks or pressure, such as earrings or necklaces. It is not an ideal choice for rings and bangles.
Which Colour Of Precious Metal Is Best?+
White gold and platinum are the most popular choices for engagement rings.
When choosing jewellery, the metal colour can be matched to the wearer's skin tone for a more flattering look. A general rule of thumb is that warm-toned metals such as yellow and rose gold complement warm skin tones, while cool-toned metals such as white gold and platinum complement cool skin tones.
However, the final decision is a matter of personal preference and style. Ultimately, the most important factor is choosing a metal that the wearer is comfortable wearing that complements their unique style.
Ultimately, the choice of metal for your jewellery depends on personal preference and the intended use of the jewellery.
Cut +
The Cut of a diamond refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond. It affects its brightness, fire and overall beauty. A well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully and maximise its sparkle.
Carat +
The Carat weight of a diamond refers to its size and is measured in metric carats. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams.
Colour +
The Colour grade of a diamond refers to the absence of colour in a diamond, with the highest quality diamonds being completely colourless. The G colour grade is a good value choice for diamond jewellery as it is nearly colourless and balances affordability and quality. A diamond will look colourless at this grade except under professional examination under specialised lighting conditions.
Clarity +
The Clarity of a diamond refers to the presence of inclusions and blemishes that can affect the transparency and brilliance of the diamond. A high clarity grade indicates that the diamond has few inclusions and blemishes. In contrast, a low clarity grade suggests the opposite.
The Clarity grade of a diamond also plays a role in its quality and value. The VS (Very Slightly Included) and VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) clarity grades are good value choices for diamond jewellery. At this grade, a diamond will have inclusions that are only noticeable under close inspection and high magnification. Any inclusions will not affect the diamond's overall appearance.
A Value And Quality Sweet Spot+
Most of our diamond jewellery is graded G/VS or D/VVS. These grades are less expensive than even higher grades of diamonds. Still, most people cannot tell the difference between these and higher graded diamonds. Most jewellery lovers see no good reason to pay for something they cannot see. Suppose you wish to have higher graded diamonds in your jewellery. In that case, we can arrange that for you – please get in touch with us, and we will meet your requirements.
In conclusion, when choosing diamond jewellery, it is important to consider the 4 Cs. Choose a combination of cut, carat weight, clarity and colour that best fits the wearer's personal preference, budget and intended use.
Prong or claw setting+
This is the most popular setting type, where the gemstone is held in place by metal prongs bent over the stone to secure it. Prong settings are an excellent choice to maximise the sparkle and brilliance of a piece of jewellery as they allow light to pass the the diamond from all angles. Prong settings offer maximum exposure for the gemstone and provide excellent security.
Bezel or rub over setting+
In this setting type, the metal surrounds the gemstone, holding it in place. Bezel settings provide a high level of protection for the diamond as it is fully enclosed. It also limits its exposure, meaning that this setting will not allow the diamond to sparkle as brightly as a prong or claw setting. In addition to security, a bezel setting often has a sleek and elegant look that many jewellery lovers enjoy.
Channel Setting +
A channel setting features a row of gemstones set into a metal channel, with metal walls on either side to hold the stones in place. Channel settings are durable and provide good security for the gemstones, but the metal walls can limit their visibility. As with the bezel setting, the channel setting style has an elegant and sleek appearance and is often seen on vintage-style jewellery.
Tension setting +
In a tension setting, the metal band applies pressure to the gemstone to hold it in place. Tension settings provide an intriguing floating illusion for the diamond but require precise metalwork and may not be as secure as other setting types. This is a modern type of setting that suits many modern designs. A tension setting is also a great way to show the brilliance and sparkle of the diamonds it holds.
Pavé setting+
In a pavé setting, small gemstones are set closely together and held in place by tiny metal beads or prongs. Pavé settings offer maximum sparkle and a continuous surface of gems, but the small size of the stones may make them more prone to damage or loss.
Pavé set diamonds look great when used around a larger centre gemstone.
In a well-designed piece of jewellery, they can give the appearance of a larger central stone at a relatively low cost while adding extra sparkle.
Each setting type has pros and cons, and the final choice depends on personal preference and the intended use of the jewellery. Our designers take great care in their choice of settings so that each diamond in each jewellery item looks its best.
UK Legal Requirements For Hallmarking+
In the UK, hallmarking is a legal requirement for precious metal articles that meet a certain weight threshold, such as gold, silver, and platinum.
The minimum weight requirement for hallmarking precious metal articles in the UK depends on the type of metal.
For gold, the minimum weight is 1 gram.
For silver, the minimum weight is 7.78 grams.
For platinum, the minimum weight is 0.5 grams.
After testing, an assay office applies the hallmark, which contains information about the metal's purity and origin. The hallmark must include the sponsor's mark, a fineness mark, an assay office mark, and an optional date letter. Failure to hallmark precious metal articles that require it can result in fines and legal consequences.
All of our jewellery is hallmarked in the UK in compliance with UK legislation.
What Do UK Hallmarking Symbols Mean? +
In the UK, hallmark symbols are used to provide information about the precious metal content and origin of articles made of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. There are four compulsory hallmark symbols that must be present on all hallmarkable articles:
The sponsor's mark, identifies the manufacturer or importer of the article.
The fineness mark, indicates the purity of the metal in parts per thousand. For example, a gold article with a fineness of 750 is 75% pure gold.
The assay office mark, identifies the office that tested and hallmarked the article.
The date letter mark, indicates the year in which the article was hallmarked.
In addition to these compulsory marks, optional marks may also be present on an article's hallmark, such as a traditional fineness mark (e.g. a lion passant for silver), a commemorative mark (e.g. to mark a special event), or a duty mark (e.g. to indicate that tax has been paid on the article). Understanding these hallmark symbols can help buyers and sellers to identify and authenticate precious metal articles in the UK.
Expert Craftsmanship+
The UK is home to a long-standing tradition of expert jewellery making and a legacy of skilled craftsmanship. Our fine jewellery is handcrafted in the UK by experienced and knowledgeable artisans who take great pride in their work.
Attention to Detail+
Handcrafted jewellery is made with a high level of attention to detail and precision, ensuring that every piece is unique and of the highest quality.
Personalized Service+
By working with a handcrafted jewellery maker in the UK, our customers can have their jewellery customised to their exact specifications, including the choice of diamonds, metal, and setting style.
Support of Local Business+
By choosing handcrafted diamond jewellery made in the UK, customers support local businesses and keep traditional jewellery-making skills alive.
Choosing diamond jewellery, handcrafted in the UK, allows you to have unique, high-quality jewellery made to your specifications while supporting local businesses and their ethical sourcing practices.
Nickel-Free Metals +
Some people are allergic to nickel, a metal often used in jewellery alloys, especially in costume or low-cost jewellery. We offer nickel-free metals such as platinum to accommodate these individuals. These metals are an excellent option for those with nickel allergies who still want to wear fine jewellery.
Hypoallergenic Metals+
In addition to nickel-free metals, there are also hypoallergenic metals that are designed to be less likely to cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Examples of these metals include 14k or 18k gold and 925 sterling silver.
It's important to note that even nickel-free and hypoallergenic metals may still cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. The best way to determine if a metal is suitable for sensitive skin is to perform a patch test on a small skin area.
Nickel-free and hypoallergenic precious metals are an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin who want to wear fine jewellery. These metals offer peace of mind and the ability to enjoy wearing jewellery without worrying about skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Check the guidance on our jewellery product specifications. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about skin sensitivity in our precious metals. We will be happy to provide additional guidance.
What is an Insurance Valuation+
When you purchase an item of jewellery from After Diamonds, you will receive an individually signed document stating the full retail price. This will usually indicate a higher price value than the discounted price that you paid.
This document is called an insurance valuation and can be used to indicate the real value of the jewellery for insurance purposes.
If you need to make an insurance claim, this certificate will enable you to make a claim that will cover the full cost of buying a replacement piece.
Please remember that as the value of jewellery increases with time, you may need to obtain an updated insurance valuation certificate after a few years to avoid the risk of being underinsured
Assetsure Insurance+
With Assetsure, you can choose a comprehensive form of cover known as "All-Risks", which includes protection against accidental damage and loss. Whether you need insurance for a single piece of jewellery or an entire collection, Assetsure has you covered.
The insurer will clearly outline the full scope of cover and any exclusions.For complete peace of mind and more information, visit the Assetsure website and request a quote after you have finished your jewellery purchase. Remember, your new jewellery is fully insured until you accept delivery from our trusted carriers.
Ethical Diamonds+
The lab grown diamonds we use in our diamond jewellery are a responsible and ethical choice for those seeking beautiful and sustainable jewellery. Unlike mined diamonds, lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment.
The producers use cutting-edge technology that replicates similar conditions in which natural diamonds are formed. This process produces visually and chemically identical diamonds to mined diamonds but with significantly less environmental impact and social harm.
When you choose lab grown diamonds, you can feel confident that your jewellery purchases align with your values of sustainability and ethical responsibility. Lab grown diamonds do not contribute to the negative impacts of diamond mining, such as deforestation, water pollution, and displacement of indigenous communities. Additionally, lab grown diamonds offer you the same quality and beauty as mined diamonds at a more affordable price.
×
Extended Returns
Enjoy peace of mind with your holiday shopping this season! We’re extending our returns and exchange policy for all jewellery purchased from November 1st, 2025 through to January 25th, 2026.
This means you can shop early and still have time after the holidays to return or exchange your item if it’s not the perfect fit. Simply follow our standard return procedures to complete your return or exchange anytime up until January 25th, 2026.
Happy shopping, and enjoy the festive season with confidence!
×
Guaranteed Christmas Delivery
Thank you for choosing to shop with us!
To ensure your order arrives in time for Christmas, we kindly recommend placing your order by the specified date.
This will allow us to process and deliver your items promptly, helping you enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
