April showers bring May flowers, but this month also brings another natural beauty we’d be remiss to dismiss. It’s time to celebrate April's birthstone, the diamond, the most desired birthstone of them all. The diamond is known for its brilliance, durability, and rarity, making it a highly sought-after gemstone. In this blog, we will explore the history, where they're found, and other properties of the diamond birthstone.
April's birthstone: The diamond
Diamond history and beliefs
The history of diamonds dates back thousands of years, with the earliest evidence of diamond mining and trading found in India around the 4th century BC. Diamonds were highly valued for their hardness and brilliance, making them ideal for use in tools, engraving, and jewelry.
In ancient times, diamonds were believed to possess mystical powers and were used for healing, protection, and as symbols of strength and courage. The diamond’s uniqueness has inspired legends. It’s been said that the Greeks saw diamonds as teardrops from the gods. Romans thought diamonds came from the falling stars that tipped the arrow of Eros, the god of love. For Hindus, diamonds were the lightning that armed the hand of the god Indra.
The popularity of diamonds continued to rise throughout the centuries, and by the Middle Ages, they were highly coveted by European royalty and aristocracy. It was said that diamonds could hold healing powers. People thought that the diamond would draw out harmful toxins from the body once they heated the diamond and took it to bed.
The discovery of diamonds in Brazil in the 18th century and later in South Africa in the 19th century led to an increase in supply, making diamonds more accessible to the general public. Today, diamonds are one of the most popular and valuable gemstones in the world and continue to hold a special place in history and culture.
Where are diamonds found?
The diamond is the oldest of all gemstones, as well as the hardest substance known to man – made of carbon that is crystallized deep within the earth. Diamonds are mined all over the world, but most notably South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Botswana, and Russia.
Russia opened its first major mine in 1960 (then known as the Soviet Union) and is now considered to be one of the top diamond producing countries.
Are there different colored diamonds?
Yes! Year after year, the allure of natural color diamonds continues to escalate, and are found in every shade imaginable. Celebrities like Katy Perry and Princess Kate have proudly shown off their fancy colored diamond engagement rings.
Geology.com states that "Colored diamonds are diamonds that have a noticeable bodycolor when viewed in the face-up position. Brown and yellow are the most common colors in natural colored diamonds. Diamonds with natural pink, blue, orange, green, red, and violet body colors are extremely rare."
The Natural Color Diamond Association does a great job providing information on each color variety, and the science behind why those diamonds are certain colors.
To many of us, diamonds symbolize true love, the start of new beginnings, and life’s special moments. To others, diamonds are simply the perfect accessory for everything from the little black dress to a T-shirt and blue jeans.
Want to learn about the other birthstones? Check out our Birthstone Guide or download the PDF version!
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