Lab-created diamonds allow you to maximize your budget, as they typically offer more size for the same cost. Natural diamonds are incredible works of nature and the traditional choice. Whether natural or lab-created, all of KAY's diamonds are 100% conflict free.

The old mine cut and the cushion cut diamond are alike in shape. However, the cushion has been modified to increase brilliance. The cushion cut differs from the old mine cut, including a more comprehensive table facet, a lower crown, an absence of culet, and a shallower pavilion.

Kays diamonds are almost exclusively IGI certified; on average an IGI certified diamonds come in around three grades higher than their GIA equivalent.

14k yellow gold contains 58.5% pure gold. 18k yellow gold contains 75% pure gold. 14k gold is the most popular choice for engagement rings in the US (90%) Has a more rich and vibrant color. More affordable and durable than 18k.

Despite the number of setting styles available, the actual diamond quality choice is limited. Kays offers limited choices for color and clarity, while also offering I1/12/13 diamonds which will have very obvious flaws and which I would not recommend you choose.

Kay Jewelers has got a good business model, commanding market share and a beautiful presentation. We do however, believe that Kays Jewelry is very expensive for what you get, and a buyer can find a better price for largely identical diamond jewelry elsewhere.

Cushion cut diamonds are based on the old mine cut, which has been around for hundreds of years. It's got a vintagey, romantic feel to it… in fact, your grandmomma may have even received one from grandpa! Though this may be something you want, you've got to be careful.

Cushion cut diamonds are far less expensive than round cut diamonds of the same carat weight. This is because they are far less popular of a shape, but their similar look to round cut diamonds makes them a great choice if you are on a budget and don't want to sacrifice style or size.

Remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, cleaning, sleeping, doing rough work or handling chemicals -- including hair care products and perfume. Do not expose gemstones to sudden temperature changes, which may cause cracks. Store each piece of jewelry separately to prevent them from scratching each other.

Top Diamond Brands in the World

• Harry Winston. For almost eighty years, American jewellery designer Harry Winston has been one of the most trusted names in the diamond trade.
• Cartier.
• Tiffany & Co.
• De Beers.
• David Yurman.
• Chopard.
• Van Cleef & Arpels.
• Mikimoto.

On the other hand, rings made with 10K, 14K, or 18K gold or that are marked 585, 750, 900, 950, PT, or Plat, are probably holding real diamonds.

You might think that the less gold, the less prestigious the metal. However, 14K gold is actually more commonly recommended for daily wear over 18K gold because of its increased durability. The more that gold is alloyed with another metal, the less it wears over time.

What Are The Top Designer Jewelry Brands?

1. Tiffany & Co. Starting our list of the top 10 designer jewelry brands is of course: Tiffany & Co.
2. Harry Winston. Harry Winston was founded in New York City in 1932 with Harry Winston, himself, as the founder.
3. Cartier.
4. Chopard.
5. Van Cleef & Arpels.
6. Graff.
7. David Yurman.
8. Buccellati.

At KAY we are committed to using ethical, conflict-free and sustainable supply chains to create the jewelry you love.

Choose a ring budget that works for where you are in your life at the time. There's always time to upgrade later! Generally speaking, the average engagement ring costs between 1% – 2% of one's annual income. Many couples choose to spend 5% – 9%, while others opt for even more if they have the means.

Cushion cut diamonds are less expensive than rounds because they waste less rough crystal. Also, because they are less in-demand than round or princess cut diamonds, they tend to cost less, too! This means that choosing a cushion cut diamond offers you not only super sparkle, but great value, too.