Diamonds, with their distinctive inner brilliance, are among the most desirable and cherished gemstones worldwide.
Those born in April have the privilege of having this mesmerizing gemstone as their birthstone, which represents clarity and fortitude.
The name Diamond originates from the Greek word Adamas, meaning “invincible”. Natural Diamonds are thought to be one of the hardest substances and date back billions of years.
What colour are diamonds?
It is a rarity to come across a diamond that exhibits no colouration whatsoever. Most diamonds possess some degree of colouration that is a result of natural processes that occurred during the formation of the gemstone.
Diamonds are found naturally in nearly every hue, ranging from Gray, Blue, Yellow, Green, Pink, and Brown. As more diamond deposits have been uncovered, some of the more vibrant stones have gained popularity. These are known as fancy coloured diamonds, such as canary diamonds, and are highly sought after for their distinct colours.
The specific colour of a diamond is dependent upon the type of impurities that are present within the stone. For instance, yellow diamonds contain trace amounts of nitrogen, while blue diamonds contain boron.
What do diamonds symbolise?
The Diamond birthstone has been associated with healing powers and was believed to act as an antidote to poison and to safeguard against the plague.
In ancient times, some claimed that diamonds can bestow longevity, strength, beauty, and happiness.
Today, the diamond engagement ring is widely recognised as a universal symbol of love and eternal love.
Where do diamonds come from?
Diamonds were first found in India, where they were gathered in rivers and streams. Later, when the supply in India started to dry up, Brazil became an essential source of diamonds.
Diamonds were discovered when miners sifted through the gravel in the Jequitinhonha River in Minas Gerais. Brazil then went on to dominate the diamond market for more than 150 years.
In the late 1860s, the discovery of Diamonds in Kimberley, South Africa formed the beginning of the modern Diamond market. In 1905 the largest diamond ever found was discovered in South Africa’s Premier mine weighing in at 3,106 ct (621 grams).
It was cut into pear-shaped 530 ct Cullinan I diamond which is also known as the Great Star of Africa. This special stone is set in the Royal Sceptre with Cross and housed with the other Crown Jewels in the Tower of London.
3 things you should know about diamonds
- Diamonds are traditionally given for the 10th and 60th wedding anniversaries.
- The Pink Star diamond, 59.60 carats, became the most expensive gem ever auctioned in April 2017.
- Diamonds are truly a girl's best friend.
If you’ve got a best friend who deserves a diamond or would like to ‘ice’ yourself, shop our Diamond Darling Huggies.
Or, enquire about custom diamond jewellery and engagement rings here.