For thousands of years diamonds have captivated the hearts and minds of people from across the world. The word "diamond" itself evokes a wide range of images and emotions: exceptional, rare, precious, desirable, sparkling, mysterious, magical, eternal, unbreakable, gifts of love.

If you are planning on buying a diamond you are about to enter an enchanted world of romance, beauty, legend and history. At Mondial Neuman we believe it wise, not to let it become merely a commercial transaction. It is entirely appropriate that diamonds have become the ultimate gift of love, if for no other reason than their ancient and seemingly everlasting beauty. We think it is likewise entirely appropriate, that you should consider Mondial Neuman to help provide you with your special diamond, or guidance in creating that perfect piece of jewellery.

A BRIEF HISTORY;
Diamonds are the most mythical of all precious gemstones. Created by a combination of extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth's core, and brought to the surface by ancient volcanic activity. The diamonds you wear and treasure, are probably the oldest things you will ever physically come into contact with. Most are much more than 200 million years old, and pink diamonds are thought to be particularly ancient - between 300 to 500 million years.

CHOOSING A DIAMOND;
Whilst two diamonds may at first glance look alike, the truth is that they are likely to be quite different. And although they may be of equal size (or weight), they may in fact have  very unequal value. There are several characteristics such as weight, colour, clarity and shape, which determine the value of a diamond. It is the combination of these characteristics and how they relate to the value of a diamond, which we can discuss with you and together, help determine the combination that will best suit your needs.

CARING FOR YOUR DIAMOND;
Diamonds may be the hardest substance known to man, but they can still be damaged or dulled. Fortunately, caring for your diamond is quite simple.

• Don’t jumble your jewellery together, or store it with other pieces, because diamonds can scratch other jewellery and each other.
• Keep your diamond jewellery in a fabric lined jewellery case or box with compartments or dividers.
• Diamond jewellery should never be worn when doing heavy work.
• Points are vulnerable to chipping and even everyday activity can loosen a setting.
• A clean diamond reflects light better than one that has been dulled by household products: hairspray, soap, cosmetics, or even perspiration.
• Try to clean your diamond at least once a month, preferably using warm to hot sudsy water made with a mild liquid detergent. Soak the jewellery in the solution, then scrub gently with a soft brush or tooth brush. Making sure the plug is in the sink, rinse well, then dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
• Don’t let your jewellery come into contact with chlorine, bleach or other chemicals because they can pit or discolour the mounting (although the diamond will not be affected).
• See your jeweller at least once a year to have your jewellery professionally cleaned and checked for loose prongs and wear.
• If you have a piece of diamond jewellery that you no longer wear, or a piece you inherited and have never worn, we would delighted to talk to you about renovating or redesigning the piece so that it takes on a whole new lease of life, and can provide you with ongoing pleasure.