The Rich Significance Behind the April Birthstone — Diamond
Popularly referred to as a ‘girl’s best friend’, the April birthstone Diamond continues to dazzle us with its astounding beauty. At the liberty of sounding a bit extravagant, we may go as far as to proclaim the stone as not just a best friend but also a woman’s forever love. When it comes to purchasing a jewelry piece, undeniably, high-quality diamonds find favor with most of us. The most scintillating stone ever known to humankind, the shining diamond crystals have a bewitching attribute that lures every heart.
The modern birthstone classification does identify the sparkling stone as the traditional April birthstone, but the love for diamonds dates back in history to around the fourth century BCE. Interestingly, archeologists and miners worldwide believe that the formation of diamonds beneath the Earth’s surface had begun as early as 900 million years ago. And for those born in April, you just have an additional reason to fall full throttle in love with diamonds! A universally acknowledged symbol of love, romance, and an unwavering commitment, diamonds also hold the distinction of being the gifts of choice for the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries. Read on as we unravel all the folklore, historical facts, and symbolic significance associated with this widely sought-after gemstone.
History Behind the April Birthstone, Diamond: Journey Through the Ages
Much true to its strength and resilience, the gemstone diamond derives its name from the Greek word Adamas, which means “Invincible”, something that can never be defeated. Historians concurred the world’s earliest acquaintance with diamonds to India. Glistening stones were found flowing in the streams and rivers of the land. These were traded off to the royalty at exorbitant prices, who developed a fetish for these charming gems at the very first glimpse. Later on, as trade expanded, Indian exporters introduced the exotic gemstone to the niche merchandising markets in Venice. Before anyone could realize it, diamonds had become a hugely valued accessory for the wealthy and affluent in Europe by the 1400s.
The iconic Hope Diamond weighing 45.54 carats, was also originally mined in the Kollur mines in Golconda, India, in the 17th century. The stunning blue diamond that traversed through various renowned owners in history is currently at the Natural Museum of Natural History in Washington DC.
After being discovered in India, as the demand for diamonds grew to frenzied proportions the world over, new mines were identified across other geographies. Over time, Brazil constituted the major contribution of diamonds for almost 150 years during the early 1600s. During the 19th century, high-quality diamonds in huge volumes were mined from the Kimberley area in South Africa, making it a leader in diamond supplies. The world’s largest diamond weighing 3,106 carats was unearthed from South Africa’s Premier Mine in 1905. The huge rock was later cut, creased, and polished into a 530-carat drop-shaped diamond that came to be known as the Cullinan I Diamond and popularized by the name of the ‘Great Star of Africa’. Another diamond, the Cullinan II Diamond, carved from the same rock, is slightly smaller and christened the ‘Lesser Star of Africa’.
History records the first diamond engagement ring given to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximillian of Austria in 1477. With such a noteworthy historical repertoire, no wonder the remarkable diamond stone continues to fascinate us. Thankfully, it is accessible to many more of us and not just confined to the super-rich and elite.
Symbolism — The Meaning and Beliefs behind the Precious Diamond Stones
If you view diamonds as only precious, sparkling crystals in your jewelry, it is time to revise your thoughts about the stone. Diamonds have held a deep meaning through the ages, and the profound symbolism only adds to their value. As the strongest material ever, diamond epitomizes strength, grit, and perseverance. If you are someone with low self-esteem or fleeting notions about your personality, wear a diamond to strengthen your instincts.
During the Middle Ages, fancy diamond crystals were believed to have miraculous healing powers over the human body. Sleeping with a few crystals by your bedside could pull out harmful toxins from the body that hamper a healthy state of being. Carrying a few crystals in a cloth bundle was believed to relieve one of the pituitary ailments and brain dysfunction.
For some good reason, the gorgeous gemstone is unequivocally used in engagement rings, and wedding rings the world over. True to their transparent lustrous appearance, diamonds are believed to ward off the malevolent intents and evil forces that may be crippling one’s life. And finally, a symbol of love, compassion, and commitment, the diamond epitomizes the emotion till death do us apart.
The April Birthstone Collection at Gabriel & Co.
Aiming to provide superlative diamond jewelry to the world, the team at Gabriel & Co. is particular about picking the exacting diamonds that rank high on the holy grail 4 C’s. Precise craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail lend a striking final shape to the beautiful designs. Born in April or fancy gifting a loved one this beautiful April birthstone? We suggest you leaf through the stunning diamond jewelry collection at Gabriel & Co., listing a few of our bestselling pieces that might intrigue your interest.
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