For those who were lucky enough to be born in April, your birthstone is the diamond. Each birthstone is special in its own right, but the diamond is interesting because it’s the rarest and also the most popular gemstone in modern culture. One of the things that is unique to April’s birthstone is that diamonds come in all colors. While many people envision a colorless diamond, there are many other colors that diamonds can be! Diamonds can range from yellow to brown to pink and every color in between. So, let’s dive into the history and more about the diamond.
The History of Diamonds Diamonds have been traded since fourth century and were coveted by royalty. By the 1400s diamonds had quickly become the fashion accessory of choice for the European elite. The first diamond engagement ring on record was given by Archduke Maximillian of Austria in 1477. In the 1700s, Brazil emerged as a source of diamonds when miners sifted through gravel. By the late 1800s, diamonds had been discovered in South Africa, which marked the beginning of the modern diamond market. Today diamonds are mined in over 25 countries, including India, South Africa, Russia, and Australia.
The Meaning of a Diamond The word diamond comes from the Greek word, adamas, meaning unbreakable or invincible. A diamond is very hard and durable, making it a great gemstone for everyday jewelry. It is the only gem that is rated a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
The diamond symbolizes everlasting love and marriage. This is one of the many reasons that diamond engagement rings and wedding rings are given to their recipients. In addition to being the April birthstone, it is also the gift of choice for celebrating the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries.
More information about Diamonds Unlike other gemstones, there are many things to consider when picking out a diamond. When choosing the perfect diamond, it’s important to consider the 4Cs – color, clarity, cut, and carat. The 4Cs impact the value and quality of the diamond, even when the differences feel subtle.
At Shreve & Co. we offer a wide range of diamonds for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for loose diamonds, engagement rings, diamond studs, or a beautiful pendant, we have a wonderful selection to choose from. Visit us online or at our San Francisco or Palo Alto locations to see more!
