Diamonds: History and Meaning
Diamonds have the longest endurance of any substance known to man. Carbon dating has established that diamonds, on average, are 3.4 billion years of age, come from deep within the Earth’s crust. They are formed under intense heat and pressure from soft, black carbon. The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word adamas, meaning “unconquerable and indestructible.” Diamonds were worn in ancient times to promote strength, invincibility and courage.
Diamond is also the gemstone of love: when carried or worn, diamond is said to advance positive relations with the opposite sex, to conquer infertility and to ensure fidelity. The earliest record of a man giving a diamond to a woman for her hand in marriage was in 1477, when the Archduke of Austria gave one to Mary of Burgundy. Now, more than 500 years later, diamonds are still the most popular gemstones in engagement rings.
Buying a Diamond: What You Need To Know
Various characteristics of diamonds are graded and categorized by the diamond industry. Learning about diamonds is first learning about the “four Cs” of diamonds which are considered the most important grades and categories
The Four C’s
Carat
Color
