1) There are slogans that say "A Diamond is Forever". Does it mean that diamonds are indestructible?
Diamonds are very hard, the hardest of all substances. This means they can scratch other substances and can resist scratching. They are tough and can stand up to a lot of daily wear. But nothing has perfect toughness, and even diamonds can be broken. Hence, they are not indestructible.


2) Why is cut so important when selecting a diamond?
Cut refers to the proportions of a diamond. Only when the angles are correct will the diamond reflect light to its best ability, ensuring maximum brilliance, fire and sparkle. A good cutter has to understand the principle path of light and how to control it through angles and proportions to bring about the best qualities in each diamond, maximising light return and achieving balance between brilliance and fire.


3) HPHT Diamonds, CVD Diamonds and Synthetic Moissanite. What are they?
They are new names in the diamond market. HPHT (High Pressure/High Temperature) Diamonds and CVC (Chemical Vapour Deposition) Diamonds are laboratory-created. Synthetic Moissanite is the latest laboratory created diamond simulant that will fool a thermal diamond tester by giving a false positive reading.


4) What is the difference between platinum, 18K white gold and 18K yellow gold?
Platinum is a soft, heavy, light grey precious metal that costs more than gold. It occurs in association with other rare metals known collectively as the platinum group of metals. They include platinum, ruthenium, osmium, iridium, palladium and rhodium. Jewellery platinum is 90-95% platinum with iridium or ruthenium as hardener. It does not tarnish or yellow and maintains its white appearance with little maintenance.

18k white gold is 75% pure gold and 25% alloy (usually nickel, zine, copper, tin, platinum or manganese). White gold is rhodium plated to give it the same white look as platinum but the rhodium would wear off eventually and the white gold takes on yellow cast.
18K Yellow Gold it 75% pure gold and 25% alloy (Silver and Copper). The more copper, the darker the yellow. t:


5) What is used to change the colour of gold?
Besides hardening metal, the addition of alloying metals is used to change the colour of gold.

Typical alloying metals and their colouring effect:

Copper: Reddening. It is the rich red copper combine with the pure yellow gold that gives a rosy tone
Silver: Greening
Zine: Bleaching
Nickel: Whitening
Palladium: Whitening


6) What is the difference between natural gemstones, lab-created gemstones, and heat-treated gemstones?
Natural gemstones, as the name imply, are found in nature.

Laboratory created gemstones and synthetics are created in a laboratory. They do not have the rarity of naturally coloured stones and are generally less expensive. Unlike imitations that look like natural stones in appearance only (examples glass, plastic or less costly substances), synthetic gemstones have the same chemical, physical and optical properties as natural gemstones.

A large proportion of gemstones have been treated in one way or another, with untreated gemstones being the exception rather than the rule. Sapphires and Rubies are routinely heated to improve their colour or clarity. There are various types of heat treatment. The basic treatment where the Sapphires and Rubies are just heated is recognised by the gemstone industry.

Treated gemstones is widely available in the market. However, a premium is usually charged for a fine quality untreated gemstone that comes with a lab report that stated that there is no evidence of heat treatment.

Failure to fully disclose treatment processes can cause unnecessary confusion to gemstones buyers. At Richard Hung Jewellers, there is nothing more important than your confidence in a purchase, satisfaction, and long-term peace of mind. Please refer to our Store Policy on Gems Treatment Disclosure.


7) What are A-Jade, B-Jade and c-Jade
A-Jade: Untreated natural jadeite jade. No detection of polymer filling but slight wax coating is acceptable due to final polishing process when jadeite soaked in hot wax. Colour is natural.

B-Jade: Natural jadeite jade that has been bleached and filled with colourless polymer. The treatment involves strong acid to bleach out all dark mineral substances mainly iron oxide. Polymer is then introduced to fill in the void left after the bleaching process.

C-Jade: Dyed jadeite jade. As green being the most desirable colour, green dye are commonly used. The dye that colour the jade artificially will not be able to withstand the wear and tear for long period. Hence, dye induced colour of C-Jade is not stable.

8) What is the difference between Natural pearls, Cultured pearls and Imitation pearls?
Natural pearls are formed by oysters and other mollusks.

Cultured pearls are made by oysters or mollusk but with human aid. A nucleus (in a form of mother-of-pearl bead) that acts as an irritant is introduced into the shell to cause the pearl to grow.

Imitation pearls are man-made with glass, plastic or other organic matter.


9) How do I care for my jewellery and pearls?
Jewellery, like anything that are worn get dirty. They are soon covered with oil or cream from your hands and start to pick up dust and dirt. The effect on the overall appearance can be drastic. You can help your jewellery look their best by cleaning them regularly with a soft toothbrush in mild detergent or soap water. Commercial jewellery cleaning solution is also recommended.

Pearls whether cultured or natural are organic substances consist mainly of calcium carbonate and must be treated with utmost care. They are most sensitive to acids, perspiration, cosmetic and hair spray. If treated thoughtfully, like wiping them with a soft cloth after use and keeping them away from other jewels, you can be assured that your pearls will maintain its beauty and longevity.