To most any person, diamonds are a representation of love that is to last a lifetime. This is partly due to the fact that diamonds are virtually indestructible, just as love is, because the diamond is the hardest natural material in the world. The tradition is to offer a diamond engagement ring to represent your commitment, which is believed to have begun more than 450 years ago when Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring. They married the very next day. Back then, in the 1400's, diamonds were only from India and, unless one was very wealthy, the diamonds were unobtainable.

A common man could only dream of showing his true love by means of a diamond. Why is it that so many people think that the diamond must be brand new when it is indestructible? People should realize the bargains available when they purchase pre-owned diamonds instead of brand new ones. There is an extremely high markup in retail stores, so go elsewhere and find some unbelievably great deals. Not only are diamonds more expensive in retail stores, but also your fiancé will end up wearing one of hundreds or thousands of the same copy of the same ring. That is not unique to her in any way. When purchasing a diamond, you should examine the 4 C's, which are cut, color, clarity, and carat.

Cheap is not one of the 4 Cs. Pawnbrokers often have bargains, so check out all pawn shops in the area. Many pawnbrokers are established businesses that are honorable with the law. Usually the pawnbroker has the jewelry because a person with poor credit needed fast money and pawned their jewelry. People are often in a pinch for an unexpected bill or for the groceries and find more use in pawning grandma's broach than holding it in a box at home. There are ways of knowing that your diamond is of the quality in which the seller is insisting.

No matter what type of store you are at, request a certificate of authenticity and quality from a respectable source. GIA (the Gemological Institute of America) was established in 1931 and has since become a very reputable institution, as well as created the popular diamond grading system of the 4 C's. Another excellent source is the American Gem Society (AGS). Diamonds are as good as new once they are separated from the metal ring. Many people pawn rings, broaches, twisted necklaces, etcetera since the gold in them is worth more than $1,000 per ounce.

Your rejuvenated pre-owned diamond can be matched with the gold of your choice so that your girl can wear her own original engagement ring that will be like no other ring on the market. If you avoid retail stores, then you will be able to provide her with a larger better quality diamond for less money. That will make her eyes sparkle!.

Archibald Rockwealth is a business man from Portland, Oregon. When he got engaged 5 years ago, he wanted his girl wearing something unique, something that made a statement. So, he went to a few Portland Oregon pawn shops until he found HB Loan. There, he found a large diamond, almost twice as big as he could afford in a Portland loose diamonds. Now that made a statement.