Some buyers may find jewelry terminology quite intimidating, while others seek advice on choosing the right style to accentuate their best features. Whether it's a stunning pair of chandelier earrings, a heartfelt pendant, or a breath-taking diamond necklace, we hope this diamond jewelry guide helps you choose a piece that is as unique and beautiful as the one you are buying it for.

Earrings

Earrings are an important accessory to any woman's jewelry drawer. They've become a staple in the wardrobes of many men as well. If it's your first diamond jewelry gift purchase and you truly want to play it safe, then earrings might be your best bet since they are always the right "fit".

Earring Types

Studs: The smallest of all earrings, diamond stud earrings lie close against the earlobes. These are best suited for a woman with a long, slender face. Diamond stud earrings are also a favorite among many men looking to add a little extra style to their overall look.

Hoops: Just what the name implies, a woman with a round or square face will find that this style will compliment her features nicely. Smaller hoops that "hug" the earlobe closely are sometimes referred to as "huggies".

Dangle: Also referred to as "drops" or "chandelier", these type of earrings dangle along the side of the face. They work best for women with heart shaped faces.

Cluster: More elaborate than diamond studs, cluster earrings usually consist of multiple precious stones and/or pearls creating a distinct and intricate multi-faceted design. Cluster earrings work well for slender faces.

Earring Clasps

Posts and Push Backs: This refers to a bar that is fitted with a small backing, in order to keep the stud earrings in place.

Hinged Hoop Backs: Commonly found on hoop earrings, this refers to a standard pierced bar that goes through the lobe, but uses a flip fastening for the back.

Hooks: An elongated pierced bar that curves down, to allow it to hang in the ear without a backing.

Posts and Omega: This refers to a lever that is hooped, and wraps around the bar, holding it tightly against the lobe. It's also commonly known as the 'French clip'.

Leverback: A curved post that ends around the back of the lobe which is fastened with a lever dipping in on either side to hold the post tightly.

Necklaces

A necklace is a great addition to any outfit and it accentuates a woman's natural beauty by enhancing the contours, shapes and prominent features of her body and face. The trick to choosing the perfect necklace, is finding a combination of type, style, and length that is right for you.

Necklace Types

Chains: Whether it's gold or platinum, a simple chain can be as creative and beautiful as any pendant. A chain is perfect for the woman who likes to keep things trendy.

Solitaire Pendants: Whether they feature a pearl or precious stone, diamond pendant necklaces are an elegant accessory for the simple, yet sophisticated woman.

Pearl Strands: A strand of pearls is a timeless style that has been passed down through the ages. This style is perfect for the woman who enjoys a classic look.

Diamond Necklace: Fit for the most special of occasions, every woman needs at least one signature diamond necklace for a spectacular evening glow.

Necklace Lengths

16 inches ? This is the standard starting length for most ladies' necklaces. This style will wrap loosely around the throat resting comfortably against the neckline and is best suited for a woman with a long and slender neck.

18 inches ? The "princess length" is what you will find being used for most pendants as well as well as any necklace featuring a precious metal chain. It rests just under the collarbone and beautifully accentuates the shoulders. 18 inches is also the standard length that most men's chains begin at.

24 inches + - The "opera length" refers to a chain that is over 24 inches. This dramatic length creates a slimming effect to the neck and shoulders and also accentuates an outfit. It's an especially good size for a string of pearls or for a woman with a thicker neck.

Bracelets

The steps to buying a bracelet are similar to that of a necklace. In fact, the two will often be created and purchased in sets. Approach a bracelet in much the same manner, but be aware that sometimes all you need is just one bold and stunning piece to complete a fabulous signature look.

Bracelet Types

Chain: Chain bracelets tend to come in the same styles as chain necklaces making them perfect to purchase in a set. Do pay close attention to the size and the width of the recipient's wrist. Wider chains accommodate a larger wrist, and thin ones go well with a narrow, more delicate wrist.

Pearl: Another bracelet type that goes well in a set with a necklace, you cannot go wrong with a classic pearl bracelet. The same rules should apply as far as size, only this time, pay attention to the width of the pearls themselves. Larger pearls should be used for a larger wrist, smaller pearls for a narrow wrist.

Diamond: Much like its necklace counterpart, a diamond bracelet exudes an unmatched aura of glamour and sophistication. A woman looking to keep things simple yet elegant should opt for an inline string of individually set diamonds most commonly referred to as a diamond tennis bracelet.

Bangle: A bold bangle bracelet makes a great statement accessory piece for the fashionable and trendy woman. When opting for bangle bracelets, many women like to pair one up with a matching right hand ring.

Right-Hand Rings

Not advertised as often as traditional left-hand engagement rings, right hand rings are no less cherished. A right hand ring is a sign of independence, accomplishment and pride. Whether this is a gift for a friend or yourself, always remember the most important part of buying a right hand ring is that it fits the style and personality of the wearer.

Things to Look For

Style: Right hand diamond ring styles will vary greatly from ring to ring. While they are usually more distinct than the average left hand ring, some right hand rings can pass for an engagement ring as well. Right hand rings will most commonly contain multiple precious stones and an elaborate design. The purpose of a right-hand ring is to create a unique piece that will incorporate your style and showcase your personality.

Width: While any width for right hand diamond rings is generally ok, the width you choose should aim to accentuate the size and shape, of your hands and fingers. Thinner rings are better suited for women who have shorter fingers. It's also a good look for those with a squarer palm. A wider ring width is perfect for a woman with longer fingers, especially a long palm shape. It will help accentuate your hands, which are likely much more delicate.

Type: This doesn't matter nearly as much as with engagement rings. Certain rings may conflict with the message of individuality, and independence that a right-hand ring portrays, so try to stay away from three stone or eternity diamond rings, both of which symbolize lifelong commitments to another person.

Firenze Jewels staff includes talented designers as well as graduate gemologist from the renowned GIA (Gemological Institute of America). We collectively bring decades of knowledge and expertise to ensure every shopping experience is a positive one. If you have any questions, please contact one of our Diamond Jewelry Specialists or visit our showroom in the heart of the New York Diamond District.