Meet Australia’s most trusted gemmologists, because at DCLA, expertise and transparency define every certification.
Step inside the nation’s only internationally accredited diamond grading laboratory and witness the precision behind every report.
The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) has presented United States President Donald Trump with a bespoke ring featuring 321 natural diamonds to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The presentation took place during the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations in Brussels, where the ring was formally received on behalf of President Trump by the U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White.
Designed by renowned Antwerp diamantaire David Gotlib, the ring showcases 321 natural diamonds and was independently certified by HRD Antwerp, reflecting Antwerp’s long standing reputation for excellence in diamond craftsmanship and grading.
According to the AWDC, the decision to use natural diamonds was intentional. The organisation described them as rare and finite treasures of nature, formed deep within the Earth over billions of years. AWDC emphasised that natural diamonds continue to provide economic opportunities for millions of people employed throughout the global diamond mining, manufacturing and jewellery industries.
AWDC Chairman Isidore Mörsel highlighted the enduring relationship between Antwerp and the United States, noting that America has remained Antwerp’s most important trading partner for generations. A substantial proportion of the natural diamonds traded through Antwerp ultimately find their way into jewellery sold by American retailers, reinforcing the strong commercial ties between the two markets.
For centuries, Antwerp has been recognised as one of the world’s premier diamond trading and manufacturing centres. Its historic diamond district, long associated with the city’s Jewish community, has played a pivotal role in the cutting, polishing and international trade of natural diamonds, helping establish Antwerp as a global hub for the diamond industry.
Has your engagement ring lost its brilliance? Don’t worry—your diamond hasn’t lost its sparkle. It simply needs professional guidance and proper care.
According to Michael Cohen, DCLA’s diamond cutting and polishing expert at the Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia, diamonds can maintain their brilliance for thousands of years. However, everyday wear allows oils, soap residue, dust and environmental grime to accumulate on the surface, temporarily dulling the stone’s fire and scintillation.
“Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale,” explains Michael Cohen. “They don’t lose their sparkle permanently. What happens is a build-up of residue that blocks light from entering and reflecting properly through the facets.”
The good news? A careful home clean can safely restore that brilliance.
Why Diamond Rings Lose Their Sparkle
Michael Cohen explains that daily exposure to skin oils, moisturisers, cosmetics, and dust causes a film to form on both the diamond and its setting. Over time, this build-up reduces light performance — the very element that makes a diamond appear lively and brilliant.
Regular maintenance prevents this dulling effect and keeps your diamond performing as it was originally cut to do.
Can You Clean a Diamond Ring at Home?
Yes — and you should.
“Routine at-home cleaning helps maintain optimal light return between professional inspections,” says Michael Cohen. “However, it must be done correctly to avoid damage to the setting.”
While home cleaning maintains appearance, annual professional inspections remain essential to ensure the security of the stones and integrity of the setting.
Safe DIY Cleaning Methods Recommended by Michael Cohen
1. Warm Water and Mild Dish Soap (Safest Method)
This is the preferred and safest home-cleaning method.
Steps:
Mix warm (not hot) water with a drop of mild dishwashing liquid.
Soak the ring for 15–20 minutes.
Gently brush around the diamond and setting using a soft toothbrush.
Rinse thoroughly in clean water.
Pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
“This method effectively removes oil and debris without compromising the metal or diamond,” says Cohen.
2. Warm Water and Glass Cleaner Solution
A diluted glass-cleaner solution (three parts water to one part ammonia-based glass cleaner) can assist in breaking down heavier residue.
However, Michael Cohen cautions: “Use sparingly and avoid frequent exposure, particularly with white gold or treated metals.”
3. Warm Water and Isopropyl Alcohol
Mix one part rubbing alcohol with three parts warm water and soak the ring for approximately 10 minutes. This helps dissolve oils efficiently.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before wearing.
Jewellery Cleaning Products
There are commercial jewellery cleaners available, but Michael Cohen recommends using simple household solutions unless advised otherwise by a professional jeweller.
“Overly aggressive commercial cleaners can sometimes affect delicate settings, especially pavé work.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Harsh Chemicals
Avoid bleach, chlorine, and strong household cleaners. These can damage metal alloys and weaken prongs.
Scrubbing Aggressively
Hard brushing can loosen claws and dislodge smaller accent stones.
Cleaning Over an Open Sink
Always clean over a bowl or with the sink plug in place to prevent loss.
Using Ultrasonic Cleaners on Pavé or Delicate Settings
Ultrasonic machines can loosen small stones in pavé or micro-set jewellery.
“Ultrasonic cleaners are effective but should be used under professional supervision, especially with intricate designs,” advises Cohen.
Special Care for Mixed Gemstone Rings
If your ring includes pearls, emeralds, opals, or other delicate gemstones, do not use standard cleaning solutions without professional advice.
“Some gemstones are porous or treated. They require specialised care,” says Michael Cohen.
Silver Bands Require Different Treatment
While gold and platinum respond well to soap-and-water cleaning, silver may require polishing solutions or a silver-specific cleaning cloth to restore its shine.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ring?
Michael Cohen recommends cleaning your engagement ring every two to four weeks, depending on wear.
“If you wear your ring daily, regular light cleaning prevents heavy build-up and maintains maximum brilliance.”
When to See a Professional
Even with proper at-home care, professional inspection is critical.
At least once a year, have your ring professionally cleaned and checked for:
Loose stones
Worn prongs
Metal fatigue
Structural integrity
“If you ever hear or feel movement in the stone, seek professional attention immediately,” advises Cohen. “A loose diamond can be lost far more easily than people realise.”
How to Keep Your Diamond Cleaner for Longer
Michael Cohen suggests:
Removing rings during cooking, gym sessions, gardening, or beach visits.
Avoiding contact with sunscreen and heavy moisturisers.
Storing rings safely when not worn.
Using small ring trays at home to encourage proper habits.
“Mindful wear dramatically reduces build-up and preserves the craftsmanship of the setting.”
Final Word
“Your diamond was cut to perform with precision and brilliance,” says Michael Cohen of the Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia. “Proper cleaning allows light to enter and exit the stone as intended, restoring its fire, brilliance and life.”
With correct care and periodic professional inspection, your diamond ring will continue to shine for generations.
A “quiet tech” diamond ring flashes different colors to alert the wearer to smartphone activity.
The 1.5-ct emerald-cut CVD lab grown stone is set in a white gold bezel, and will be available for pre-order in the third quarter of 2025 at around $3,000, with products expected to be delivered in mid-2026.
French startup Spktrl, which developed the Bluetooth-enabled, AI-powered device, says it’s the first of its kind. There are other smart rings on the market, but they function as health and fitness trackers.
The sole function of Light Ring is to discreetly signal priority smartphone notifications, helping reduce digital distractions.
Built-in artificial intelligence learns user habits over time to refine which alerts activate the ring.
Spktrl was founded by Katia de Lasteyrie, a former innovation lead for LVMH’s watches and jewelry division.
“Our technology isn’t designed to replace phones or make you faster but to give you back control,” she said.
“The stone is the interface, and the color is the language. Personalized to each user, our ring communicates important messages in a novel way that is truly mindful of their time and attention,”
A pair of fancy vivid orange-yellow diamond earrings weighing 12.20 and 11.96 carats will be the top lot at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels sale on December 6 in New York. The earrings, which are named “California Sunset Diamonds,” are estimated at $7 million – $12 million.
A ring with a similar fancy vivid yellowish orange diamond weighing 5.16 carats has an estimate of $1.5 million – $2 million.
A 5.16-carat fancy vivid yellowish orange diamond has an estimate of $1.5 million – $2 million CHRISTIE’S
There haven’t been many details released yet for Christie’s final jewelry auction of 2023, but the sale will include several fancy colored diamonds, white diamonds and colored gems. As always, there will be signed jewels from important collections.
Diamonds are among the hardest natural substances on Earth, which means that they are very durable and resistant to damage. However, while diamonds themselves are difficult to damage but not impossible, the metal and setting that hold the diamond in place can be vulnerable to wear and tear.
If a diamond ring is worn regularly, it can be exposed to a range of environmental factors such as dust, dirt, and chemicals, which can dull the metal and damage the setting. Additionally, accidental impacts, knocks, or scratches can potentially cause the diamond to become loose or even dislodge completely from its setting.
Therefore, it’s essential to take good care of your diamond ring, keep it clean and dry, and avoid wearing it during any activities that could expose it to undue stress or impact. Regular professional inspections by a jeweler can also help to detect and prevent any potential issues that could lead to damage.
It is recommended to have your diamond ring checked at least once a year by a professional jeweler. During this checkup, the jeweler will inspect the diamond to ensure it is secure in its setting and that there are no signs of damage or wear and tear. They will also clean the ring to keep it looking its best.
If you wear your diamond ring daily or engage in activities that could potentially damage the ring, such as sports or heavy manual labor, it may be advisable to have it checked more frequently, perhaps every six months or so.
It’s also a good idea to check your ring regularly at home for any signs of damage or loose stones. If you notice anything unusual, take it to a jeweler for a professional inspection right away to prevent further damage or loss of the diamond.
See out list of recommended jewellers in your area.
Unlike other insurers, we only insure certified diamond jewellery. As the diamond experts, we appreciate the worth of your diamonds and guarantee to replace them like for like.
Unlike other insurers, we only insure certified diamond jewellery. As the diamond experts, we appreciate the worth of your diamonds and guarantee to replace them like for like.
De Beers marketing spend this years is more than $140 million, This is the biggest De Beers push in a decade.
The marketing will focus on increasing consumer demand for diamond jewellery in US, China and Indian markets.
The De Beers brands, Forevermark and De Beers Diamond Jewellers. Will
receive the most funding, But Debeers will also increase its
contributions to the Diamond Producers Association and India’s Gem &
Jewellery Export Promotion Council.
Stephen Lussier, De Beers’ executive vice president of marketing and CEO of Forevermark. Said the consumer expenditure for diamond jewellery over the past five years collectively has been the highest on record. and this made the outlook positive.
In Taylor Swift’s new music video for “Look What You Made Me Do.” The pop star is seen sitting in a bathtub full of diamonds.
Well surprise they used real diamonds, no fakes. The Jewellery pieces
were on loan from celebrity jeweller Neil Lane. And have a value of
well over $10 million USD.
The rough-diamond market slowed during last week’s De Beers July sight, with prices on the secondary market decreasing.
De Beers sold $572 million of rough in the sixth sales cycle, an
increase of 6% from the previous sight and 8% from the same period a
year ago, the company said Tuesday. However, rough dealers were
reselling boxes of De Beers goods for no premium, or at a loss, in
contrast to the buoyant activity in the first half of the year,
sightholders said.
While De Beers kept its prices generally steady, prices on the
secondary market were about 4% to 5% lower than they were following the
June sight, dealers reported. “Taking into account the real cost of the
boxes [including tax, broker fees and other costs], the box prices
represented a loss to the sellers,” Dudu Harari of diamond broker
Bluedax said in a report on the sight.
The cooling of the market comes as diamond cutters are finally
realizing that the mismatch between rough and polished prices has made
it difficult for them to make money on goods, one rough broker told
Rapaport News on Tuesday.
Demand for polished diamonds remains weak, resulting in slim profit
margins for manufacturers, sightholders said, as rough prices increased
an estimated 3% in the first half. “This sight, we saw a paradigm
shift,” the rough broker explained.
“There wasn’t much demand for De Beers boxes on the secondary market.
This was a very significant difference from sight five. “The wheels
have come off the bus as far as the rough market is concerned,” the
broker added. “If something doesn’t change at the end of the pipeline,
we could see a drop in rough prices.” De Beers, meanwhile, said demand
for its goods was solid across its product range, as the miner had
reported in previous sights.
“With Diwali being earlier than normal in 2017, we saw some demand
from Indian diamantaires pulled forward from sight seven,” said De Beers
CEO Bruce Cleaver. “This was due to these customers needing to make
rough-diamond purchases in sufficient time to complete their polishing
before the holiday begins.” De Beers continued its recent practice of
not offering any “ex-plan” goods — excess rough that the miner makes
available beyond what it has agreed to supply sightholders — according
to the anonymous broker.
Buyers reported shortages in certain rough categories, in line with earlier sales this year.
The 2.11 carat radiant cut fancy red Argyle Everglow, the top lot of the 2017 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender New York.
Four graded fancy red and another four as purplish red. There were
also two violet diamonds and one blue, with the remaining 41 graded
pink.
Following the preview held this week in New York, the diamonds will
travel to Hong Kong and then come back to New York in September, before
returning to Australia where they were mined.
At DCLA Diamonds we design your ring or dress ring using our new diamond stock. Or if you have sentimental diamond jewellery we can redesign a bespoke ring. Which makes them fashionable and wearable.
DCLA can help you sell or auction your diamond jewellery and get you the correct value:
If you are you considering selling your diamond, but feel as though you have no idea how or where to begin with the process?
This article will give you a few tips to help you along the way. TIP #1 Diamonds are usually given to display love,
making the sentimental value higher to the seller than the actual value
to a buyer. Should you be in the market to sell your diamond, make sure
you are ready to part with the diamond before begining the process. TIP #2 Be sure of the quality and authenticity of
what you are trying to sell. Make sure of the quality and the grade of
the stone. This is most important for the ultimate value of the diamond.
There have been many instances where a seller is committed to selling
their diamond only to find out the quality isn’t as described when
originally purchased.
There are Jewellers or services available, who will give an unbiased
assessment of your stone. But it is far more valuable in the long run to
get a report from a recognised Laboratory.
It is also recommended to verify the report matches the Laser
inscription before placing your diamond on the market, to assure your
diamond is the same stone should it not sell. TIP #3 Now that you have an accurate report of the
quality, make sure you get a realistic selling value. Believing the
diamond holds a higher value than it truly possesses will lead to a
challenging, frustrating experience which can be dragged out.
An appraiser can assist you with determining a fair selling, price so
you can avoid this pitfall. Diamonds are priced in US dollars, so your
diamonds price will be affected when converted to your local currency.
A good way to see current retail values is to visit online stores like dcladiamondexchange.com.au or bluenile.com. TIP #4 There are many ways to sell a preloved
diamond or diamond jewellery. Research your selling options to make an
educated decision that works best for you. Be it an online market or
exploring options through a local jeweller or dealer, be sure you are
using the best option for your needs.
Example, if time is not of the essence, an online market or an
auction house could be the best way forward. If you want a quick sale,
visiting your local dealer may be the best option. DCLA Diamond Laboratory provides an internationally recognised and respected report to any seller or prospective buyer. DCLA will provide you with an experience expert to
advise you and give you the accurate value protecting you when selling.
Our goal is to provide you with as much knowledge as possible.
Visit www.dcla.com.au for information advice or to make an appointment.
Or call us on 1300 413 425 or Sydney 02 92612104
