01 · Understand the diamond
Learn what lab-grown means and which details to compare before choosing a stone.
THE MAYLAYA GUIDE
Clear answers about diamonds, gold and the details that make a piece yours.
Start with the essentials, understand your budget, then explore the details of the piece you love.
Learn what lab-grown means and which details to compare before choosing a stone.
See how the diamond, gold and setting contribute to a ring’s price.
Compare GIA and IGI report formats and learn which information to check.
Use the ring-size guide as a starting point, then confirm the fit for your chosen design.
Explore our in-depth diamond and jewellery guides.
Explore the collections, or send us the design you like together with your budget and preferred date.
Both are diamonds. Laboratory-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds, but a different origin. Natural diamonds form in the earth; laboratory-grown diamonds are produced using technology such as CVD or HPHT. Ask for clear origin disclosure and the report for the specific stone. Neither should be purchased with a promise of future resale value.
Carat is weight, not face-up size: 1 carat equals 0.2 grams. Colour describes the absence of colour for diamonds on the D–Z scale; fancy colours are assessed differently. Clarity describes internal and surface characteristics. Cut concerns how a diamond is fashioned and how it handles light—not simply its shape. Balance the report with viewing the actual diamond.
Check the laboratory, report date and number, diamond origin, measurements and the grading information actually listed. Report formats differ by laboratory and date; do not assume every report uses identical terminology. A grading report is not a valuation, warranty or guarantee of resale price. Verify its number on the issuing laboratory’s official website and match it to the stone.
Verify a GIA report · Verify an IGI reportRound offers a classic brilliant look. Oval, pear and marquise create an elongated outline. Emerald and Asscher cuts emphasise broad, mirror-like flashes; radiant and cushion offer different combinations of outline and brilliance. Princess has a square outline. Heart is distinctive and romantic. Compare actual videos: diamonds of the same shape and carat can look very different.
Divide length by width using the millimetre measurements on the report. A higher ratio generally looks more elongated. There is no single ideal ratio for every person or every shape. Compare outline, symmetry, light performance and any dark areas in different lighting. Ratios alone do not establish cut quality.
Face-up dimensions depend on shape and proportions as well as carat. Compare length and width in millimetres, then view the piece on a hand or model. For multi-stone jewellery, ask whether the stated carat is the centre stone’s weight or total diamond weight. Images and screen displays are not reliable actual-size measurements.
Polish describes the finish of facets; symmetry assesses their alignment. Fluorescence is a response to ultraviolet light and is not the same as sparkle. Its effect on appearance varies, so assess the actual stone rather than rejecting or choosing it on one report characteristic alone.
9K contains 37.5% gold, 14K approximately 58.5%, and 18K 75%. The remaining alloy affects colour, hardness and skin compatibility. Higher karat means more gold, not automatically greater scratch resistance. Choose by budget, colour preference, wear habits and alloy details. White gold may have rhodium plating that needs periodic renewal; ask what your piece uses.
A solitaire focuses attention on the centre stone. A halo frames it with smaller stones; a hidden halo is mainly visible from the side. Pavé adds small diamonds along the band. Bezel and prong settings hold stones differently. Consider setting height, comfort, snagging, and whether a wedding band can sit beside the ring. Ask about band width and thickness before ordering.
For suitable diamond-and-gold pieces, use lukewarm water, a little mild dish soap and a soft brush, then rinse carefully and dry with a soft cloth. Check with us first for mixed gemstones or special finishes. Remove jewellery before swimming, heavy exercise and household cleaning. Store pieces separately. Avoid home ultrasonic cleaning unless a jeweller confirms it is safe for the stones and setting; arrange an inspection if a stone feels loose.
Confirm the exact stone, metal, size, price and whether the piece is ready stock or made to order. Request the applicable report, dispatch estimate, delivery charges and written terms for resizing, returns and aftercare. Custom-made and ready-stock pieces may have different conditions; the agreed order details and applicable policies matter.
Timing depends on stock, custom work and destination. Request a dispatch estimate for the specific piece and check your order confirmation. Contact us before ordering for proposals, weddings or other fixed dates.
It depends on the design, metal, stone setting and amount of adjustment. Use our guide for an initial estimate, then confirm the fit and resizing terms with us. A professional fitting is best for wide bands and unusual designs.
Read the policy applicable to your order and ask about any exclusions before payment. Contact us with your order number for a return, repair or warranty enquiry. Do not send a piece back until return instructions have been confirmed.
Book an appointment or contact LINE @Maylaya to confirm the piece you want to see, its location and appointment availability.