Spotlight on diamonds

When investing in a capsule wardrobe, it is hard to find something that never goes out of style. Even the most seemingly enduring of items – a little black dress, a classic handbag – are eventually dated by their cut, or their colour fades over time. Not so with diamonds.

By Rachael Taylor

These immutable beacons of brilliance never age, making them ideal for those of us seeking to make more conscious choices when it comes to adornment. As Vivienne Westwood once said, and something to which we should all aspire: “Buy less. Choose well. Make it last.”

Finding a diamond that will last is a given. While it might be their sparkle that keeps us mesmerised, the stones’ durability is what makes diamond jewellery perfect for everyday wear. All natural diamonds were formed millions of years ago, deep beneath the earth’s mantle, when volcanic eruptions put carbon under huge amounts of pressure at a high heat. The result is one of the toughest – and most beautiful – gems on the planet.

As for choosing well, this is a matter of personal taste, but there are some classic items that every well-furnished jewellery box should aspire to. A diamond necklace that can steal the show at any black-tie event is an investment that will deliver returns for life. Within the aptly named Mappin & Webb Luxury collection is one such forever jewel. Set with more than 44cts of diamonds in mixed cuts, including marquise, trillions, pears and ovals, this outstanding white gold necklace will never age. Whether layered over a cashmere knit or radiating from the neckline of a formal gown, it is guaranteed to generate perpetual delight.

Mappin & Webb 18ct white gold necklace with 44.39cts of mixed shape diamonds.

Just as every good night out is better with an amenable plus one, a diamond necklace shines all the brighter with a well-matched pair of earrings. Also within the Luxury collection is just such a pair to complete this contemporary diamond suite. With complementary mixed cuts of diamonds cascading from the ears, these are earrings begging to be taken out dancing.

Tapping into the trend for mixed diamonds cuts, but at a scale that does not require a red carpet to be rolled out for the occasion, is a more delicate necklace within the Luxury collection. Crafted in 18ct white gold, the lariat-style design has 3.07cts of diamonds scattered across its length. Running this tactile piece through your fingers, one can easily imagine it glinting on bare, sun-kissed skin in the summer months. And to dial up the look for evening soirees, team it with a pair of Luxury collection pear- and oval-cut diamond drop earrings.

The most iconic diamond design of all time has to be the engagement ring; it is, after all, the only jewel to have achieved the pinnacle of modern accolades – its own emoji. Diamonds became the go-to gemstone for the betrothed towards the end of the 19th century, and it is a tradition that has held fast. The classic solitaire has changed little over the years, although today’s brides will enjoy a far superior sparkle to the Victorians thanks to modern diamond cutting techniques, as displayed in the hypnotic 1ct stone in Mappin & Webb’s Ena Harkness solitaire ring, which is cradled in a platinum setting inspired by the English rose of the same name.

Mappin & Webb 18ct gold earrings with 16.05cts of mixed-cut diamonds.

For even more brilliance, opt for a trilogy ring, such as the yellow gold and platinum design also in the Ena Harkness collection. These rings have three central diamonds rather than one, with the trio of stones representing a couple’s past, present and future. Or if you prefer a flash of colour with your brilliance, Mappin & Webb has a beautiful range of yellow diamonds. Pear, oval and cushion-cut yellow diamonds – secured with yellow gold claws to enhance their colour – are looped with white diamond halos and set on platinum rings, with even more diamonds studded into the shoulders to create an unsurpassed sparkle.

Of course, you don’t need a proposal to invest in a diamond ring. Long gone are the days when women had to wait for the jewels they coveted – and rightly so. Though it historically has roots in matrimony, an eternity ring makes a perfect stacking ring for any occasion, and indeed gender. The choice, which is entirely yours, is whether to keep it classic with a uniform band of diamonds, or perhaps opt for something with a little flair, such as Mappin & Webb’s platinum eternity band with 6cts of pear-cut diamonds, each set at an angle to create a beautiful flow. Either way, this will be a purchase that will delight now and for decades to come.

This article was written in partnership with Mappin & Webb