Price match guarantee
For orders up to $2,000 you can use Afterpay’s payment option. Through AfterPay, your purchase will be split into 4 payments, payable every 2 weeks with absolutely no interest or extra fees
STEP 1:
At check-out, select the Afterpay payment option. You will be directed to AfterPay’s website to confirm the option. Afterpay will confirm your eligibility through a soft credit check which does not affect your credit score. There is no need for card details to complete the order.
STEP 2:
The agreed payment period starts once we ship your order. This means you have 30 days after shipment to complete your payment.
STEP 3:
Once you’re ready, proceed to extra-secure payment on ClearPay’s app or website, and use either credit or debit card.
If you’re not entirely happy with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund or exchange within 30 days of receipt. Once we receive your purchase, we shall cancel your flexible payment option with ClearPay, and you will be refunded any amount that you have already paid.
For any queries about Afterpay, including payments, declined orders, or queries about your Afterpay account, please visit the contact us section on the Afterpay website.
14th December 2023 | by Admin
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It is law within the UK that every item of precious metal sold such as Platinum, Gold, Silver is stamped labelling the item with the type of metal it is. Platinum pieces which weigh less than 0.5 grams, 18ct Gold and Palladium pieces weighing less than 1.0 gram and Silver pieces weighing less than 7.78 grams are except from hallmark.
At Diamonds Factory all our products are hallmarked as per UK hallmarking law from London Assay Office (The GoldSmith Company)
The Goldsmiths' Company Assay Office is the oldest assay office in the United Kingdom. It has provided hallmarking services since The Goldsmiths' Company was founded in the 1300s. The company received its royal charter in 1327 and ranks 5th in order of precedence of the 12 Great Livery Companies of the City of London.
Hallmarking dates back to the 1300s when Edward I of England passed a law requiring any item made of silver, which was offered for sale, to be at least of equal quality as that of the coin of the realm (silver currency). The wardens of The Goldsmiths' Company were tasked with visiting workshops in the City of London to assay (test) silver articles. If these articles were found to be below standard they were originally destroyed and the metal forfeited to the King. If they passed, each article received the King's mark of authentication - the mark of a leopard's head. By 1478, there were several hundred workshops and merchants manufacturing silver articles in the City of London. It was not possible for the wardens to visit them all so the merchants were ordered to bring their items to Goldsmiths' Hall for testing and marking and a permanent Assay Office was established in the building. This is the origin of the term hallmark - struck with the King's mark at Goldsmiths' Hall.
In 1544 the Goldsmith's Company adopted the King's mark as their town mark and the mark of the leopard's head is now internationally recognised as the mark of this assay office.
The Goldsmiths's Company Assay Office is still based at Goldsmiths's Hall and remains the oldest company in Britain to be continually trading from the same site. However, it also has two satellite offices; at Greville Street in Hatton Garden in the heart of the London jewellery quarter and within a high security complex near London's Heathrow airport. It now has a new off-site facility within the Dalston-based jewellery manufacturer, Allied Gold. This is the first time in the Assay Office's 700 year history that it has opened permanent hallmarking services on a customer's premises.
In addition to hallmarking, the office has now expanded its range of services to support the jewellery trade and enforcement authorities. It offers a variety of specialist analytical services including nickel, lead & cadmium testing, antique silver dating, non-destructive compositional analysis, plating thickness measurement and a melt and assay service for scrap precious metal carried out in their fully independent on-site laboratory. Other services offered are a jewellery valuation service, laser marking, trading standards assistance, high quality photography and a comprehensive range of training and educational seminars, lectures and specialist events.
Guide to choosing the best metal for your engagement ring
Selecting the ideal engagement ring is a momentous decision. While the gemstone and design play pivotal roles, the choice of metal for your engagement ring is equally significant. The metal not only sets the tone for the entire piece but also reflects your/ your partner’s personal style and aesthetic preferences.
So, what metal is best for your engagement ring?
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common metals used in engagement rings and help you understand the nuances of each option so you can choose the best metal for your engagement ring.
Firstly, what style?
When it comes to selecting the best metal for your engagement ring, the first consideration should be the style that best represents your/ your partner’s personal taste and complements the overall design. Different metals suit various styles, so take some time to assess your preferences and what matches your/ your partner’s lifestyle and aesthetic.
If you're choosing an engagement ring for your partner, it's important to consider the jewellery colour they already wear. If they predominantly wear yellow gold, they likely have a strong preference for this warm and classic metal. Similarly, if they mostly wear white gold or silver, it's a sign that they lean towards cooler-toned metals.
Of course, some people enjoy mixing different metal colours in their jewellery. They may wear a combination of yellow and white gold or silver and rose gold. In such cases, it might indicate that they appreciate variety and could be open to different metal choices for their engagement ring.
The most common options for your ring
Yellow gold
Yellow gold has been a classic choice for engagement rings for centuries. It exudes warmth and timeless elegance. Its rich, warm colour compliments a wide range of gemstones and settings, making it a versatile choice. Yellow gold engagement rings often have a vintage or traditional appeal, making them perfect for those who appreciate a sense of history and a touch of nostalgia.
Rose gold
Rose gold, with its subtle, romantic pink hue, has gained immense popularity in recent years. This metal offers a unique and modern twist on the traditional engagement ring. Its feminine and delicate appearance suits those with a romantic, artistic, or bohemian style. Rose gold beautifully complements various gemstones, especially diamonds, and adds a touch of individuality to your ring.
White gold
White gold is a contemporary and versatile choice, known for its elegant and sophisticated appearance. It pairs well with a variety of gemstones and is often used in modern and minimalist designs.
Its cool, silvery colour creates a beautiful backdrop for diamonds, making it an excellent choice if you want your gemstone to shine brightly.
Platinum
Platinum is a luxurious and durable metal that boasts a brilliant white colour. It is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to wear and tear, making it a practical option for everyday wear.
Platinum engagement rings are a symbol of enduring love and commitment, making them perfect for couples who want a ring that will stand the test of time.
Silver
Silver is an affordable choice for engagement rings. It offers a bright and shiny appearance, but it is important to note that silver is more susceptible to tarnishing than other metals. Silver engagement rings are often chosen by those with a tighter budget or who appreciate the simple and understated beauty of silver.
Diamond considerations
When choosing the metal for your engagement ring, consider how it will complement the diamond or gemstone you select. Each metal can enhance or detract from the stone's colour and brilliance.
For example, white metals like platinum and white gold accentuate the sparkle of diamonds, while warm metals like yellow and rose gold may complement coloured gemstones beautifully.
Also, consider the setting style and the overall design of the ring. Some metals are better suited to specific setting types, and the choice of metal can influence the aesthetics of the ring significantly.
Choosing the metal that shines brightest
Selecting the right metal for your engagement ring is a significant decision, as it sets the tone for the entire piece. Take your time to explore the options and, if you need a second opinion, consult with a friend or family member to ensure your engagement ring is a perfect representation of your unique bond.
Already decided on the perfect colour metal? Explore our wide range of engagement rings that come in a variety of exquisite designs and styles. Find the ring that resonates with your unique story and captures the essence of your commitment. Your journey to finding the perfect engagement ring starts here.