Diamond is a world's most popular gemstones and the world's hardest materials create brilliant, sparkling, and timeless jewelry.
April Birthstone: Diamond
Diamond Meaning & History
The word diamond is derived from the Greek word for "impossible to tame". The earliest mention of diamonds comes from Indian texts circa 296 BC. Prized as a decoration, amulet and industrial tool, diamonds became popular as a gemstone starting in the 1300's and by the 1400's were being used in wedding rings. Diamonds are a tightly controlled, complicated and mysterious industry which in some ways has added to their allure.
Where is diamond found?
The diamond is a crystalline form of carbon which is formed under intense heat and pressure at least 90 miles below the surface of the Earth.
It's hardness and high dispersion of light make it particularly well suited to being a gemstone. While clear white varieties have been most popular over the years, rare colored varieties exist and are increasing in popularity. Jewelry Diamonds are graded and priced based on a system that includes the Carat, Clarity, Color and Cut.
Diamonds are mined primarily in Africa, but active mines exist in Canada, Siberia, Brazil and Australia.
Read Also: March Birthstone