Diamond - April's Birthstone
Diamond,
the birthstone of April
“Divine splendor on Earth…”
- Middle Age text about diamonds
.
Adamas.
The Greek word ἀδάμας meaning “invincible”, “unconquerable” and “unbreakable”. It was the ancient name for the gemstone we call diamond.
Diamonds are indeed the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth, comprised of only one element; carbon.
They are also the birthstone for the month of April.
~ Assorted diamond shapes and cuts, photo curtesy of Stuller
Diamonds hardly need an introduction, as humans have been obsessed with this sparkling jewel since at least the 3rd century BC. The oldest known written mention of diamonds was a Sanskrit text dated to roughly 3,800 years ago.
These stunning gemstones have unusual and unique chemical and optical properties that hold them apart from others. These same traits cause diamonds to be brilliant and fiery when cut and polished.
There is nothing quite like a diamond!
~ Diamond solitaire ring by Hearts On Fire and diamond earrings by Roberto Coin
Formation of these minerals is dated to sometime between 3 and 3.5 billion years, with most estimates concluding that they formed at least 100 miles underground.
Diamonds aren’t just the birthstone for April, they are also associated with Aries the Ram in the Zodiac.
Prized throughout the years as a go-to for engagement stones, this gemstone is the celebrity (or royalty) of the jewelry world. The symbolism of an unbreakable bond can’t be ignored either, perfect for marriage.
Diamonds can be cut into many shapes with many different faceting patterns, although the modern “round brilliant” is praised for unlocking the full potential of this shining stone. With precise angles and sharp facets, a well-cut diamond acts as a series of mirrors and prisms, bouncing light around inside to split the white light into spectral colors.
In return, it gives us a dazzling display of rainbow fireworks delivered right to our eyes.
~ Pendant and earrings by Kwiat
In India, where diamond trading began, this gemstone was highly prized and held many myths. Some said each diamond had a unique ‘flavor’, and India had the first ever diamond grading scale based upon color and clarity.
In Hinduism, there is a legendary tale of where gemstones came from, involving the demon god Vala, and a mighty clash of demi-gods. It’s said that Vala’s bones became diamonds, falling to Earth and shattering into smaller pieces.
In the Middle Ages, diamonds were used more for spells than jewelry. It was said they could protect homes and chase away specters and phantoms.
~ Diamond rings by Simon G. and Sethi Couture
While colorless diamonds remain the most popular and are synonyms with the name, this gemstone actually comes in any and every color.
From delicate pinks, to a range of browns, blue, striking red and greens, yellows and purples. Each color is bold, but the fire and brilliance of a diamond shines through, creating a truly remarkable effect.
~ Fancy colored diamond rings, created by Panowicz Jewelers
There is no denying that there is something mystical about a diamond; whether the brilliance, the hardest, the age and volatile conditions they come from, something about this gemstone draws us to it.
The allure of a diamond is strong, powerful. It heralds back to its original name; Adamas.
~ Blog by Isabelle Corvin, Staff Gemologist and Merchandising Manager