Pictures Of Diamonds

Tips for Capturing Diamond Brilliance in Pictures

Diamonds, one of the most valued and sought-after gemstones, have long been a subject of fascination and allure. The light and brilliance that diamonds exude is unmistakable, showing off a fire that is matched by no other gemstone in existence. Is it possible to capture this brilliance by taking pictures of a diamond? It is if you follow certain guidelines that will show off this desirable gem in the most favorable light.

A contrasting background in a deep, rich color such as midnight blue, majestic purple or black, preferably in velvet material, can help accent the brilliance of diamonds when you take pictures. By comparison, diamonds photographed against a white or pastel background don't sparkle as much and tend to look washed out.

Be sure that the diamonds you are photographing are extremely clean and free from any film or dirt before beginning. Whether unset stones or in jewelry settings, diamonds can be cleaned with jewelry cleaning solution or soaked briefly in warm water with a little mild dish detergent prior to wiping completely dry. If there is dirt that does not easily come off, try using a very soft brush such as a toothbrush to complete the cleaning phase prior to photographing.

Position your dark material by taping or tacking down, making sure that the material is stretched taut with no wrinkles or creases showing. If showcasing just one spectacular unset diamond stone or a diamond ring, pendant or brooch, you may want to create a nest using the material by softly gathering it to cradle the diamond. If you are photographing several diamonds or pieces of diamond jewelry, you will want to position them against the backdrop so that the way they are angled makes the most use of the available lighting in order to accentuate their brilliance, cut and clarity. To make any stone or diamond jewelry piece stand upright, use a small bead of wax positioned on the bottom in order to anchor the piece stationery during the photography session.

Direct, focused, hard light coming from overhead is the best type of lighting to showcase diamonds for photographic purposes. Special LED light bulbs have been developed specifically for diamond photography, so ask your photography supply source about obtaining light bulbs that will accent the diamond's natural brilliance and fire without creating unwanted glare. Take several test shots as necessary, positioning the stones in various directions until you discover the position