April Birthstone - Diamond!

History

The earliest diamonds were found in India in 4th century BC, although the youngest of these deposits were formed 900 million years ago. A majority of these early stones were transported along the network of trade routes that connected India and China, commonly known as the Silk Road. At the time of their discovery, diamonds were valued because of their strength and brilliance, and for their ability to refract light and engrave metal. Diamonds were worn as adornments, used as cutting tools, served as a talisman to ward off evil, and were believed to provide protection in battle. In the Dark Ages, diamonds were also used as a medical aid and were thought to cure illness and heal wounds when ingested.

 

Present

The most familiar uses of diamonds today are as gemstones used for adornment, and as industrial abrasives for cutting hard materials.

 

Caring for your Diamonds

To maintain the brilliance of your diamond at home use warm water and a cleaning solution. Gently scrub your diamond with a soft bristle toothbrush to loosen dirt. Be careful not to starch the metal your diamond is set in. There is a myth that soaking your diamond in vodka can also clean it up very well.

It is important to visit a professional Jeweller every six months to a year to have your mounting checked and tightened. They are also able to use an ultrasonic cleaner to clean your diamonds.

 

Origin: South Africa, Australia, Botswana, India, China, USA
Colour: Colourless, Champagne
Myth: In India diamonds are “unlucky”. That you can wear a diamond only and only if it suits you and that if the diamond does not suit you, it can bring you horrendous ruin and harm.