However, it wasn't always this way. In fact, diamonds didn't gain popularity until the nineteenth century, when it became easier to find and use them.

 

The right choice of diamond can make or break a piece of jewellery, so it is important that you really understand diamonds before your next purchase. Here are some information that will help you make a great decision, as well as a mini-history of the most famous gemstone of them all, April’s birthstone!

 

The Origin of Diamonds: Where Do They Come From?

 

Diamonds form in the earth between eighty-seven and one hundred and eighteen miles below the surface of the Earth where carbon-bearing materials are exposed to high pressure while maintaining low temperatures.

 

Once diamonds are formed, they come up to the surface of the earth with the help of volcanos! Magma is made at the same level of the earth, as the diamonds, so they bring them to the surface with them!

 

Once they reach the earth, they are carried all over the world. There are two ways to find diamonds: alluvial diamond mining or diamond pipe mining.

 

Diamonds also come from space. Carbonados, diamonds found in South America and Africa, are thought to have come to earth during an asteroid impact that happened around three billion years ago.

 

Because they are so rare, scientists have also found a way to make them. Since the fifties, laboratories have forced carbon atoms to make diamonds by using heat and pressure. Some even reduce methane gas as a way for diamonds to form.

 

"Man-made diamonds" can take weeks to form. Because the conditions in a lab can be hard to maintain, these diamonds can be just as flawed and unique as naturally made ones.

 

Early Use of Diamonds

 

The first diamonds were found in India, though, once they were discovered, they were found all over the world.

 

They had many uses including:

 

  • Tools. Diamonds were first discovered with other tools dating back to 2500 BC in China. They appeared to be used as tools to help them cut stones and other materials so they could be more useful and workable. Diamonds are still used today in tools, though these are referred to as industrial diamonds.
  • Protection. Many wore them to help ward off evil because they were able to refract light. They were also commonly used in battle as a form of protection.
  • Adornments. Even in the early days in Ancient India, diamonds were used for jewellery and adornments. Not only did people wear them, but they also decorated their statues with diamonds.

 

  • As a status symbol. Rulers often wore diamond rings to show their power. Hindus used diamonds as eyes in the statues of their deities.  In fact, most of the well-known diamonds today (Hope Diamond, Regent Diamond, etc.) were from early India culture.

 

  • Medicinally. In the early Middle Ages, many believed that diamonds had special medicinal powers. Many sick people held a diamond while they prayed or made the sign of a cross in order to be healed. Others ate diamonds to help with different ailments.

 

Even today, diamonds are being used for more than just jewellery.

 

What the Ancient Greeks and Romans Believed About Diamonds

 

Before diamonds became associated with jewellery, early cultures weren't too sure what to think of them.

 

In fact, the Ancient Greeks and Romans were convinced that they were from falling stars. They actually thought that they were tears from the gods. Some people thought that Cupid's arrow was dipped with diamonds and he left them behind as he helped people find love. Others thought that diamonds were formed after a lightning storm.

 

The Romans wore "betrothal" or "truth" rings to show their commitment to their partner (or even a friend). These rings were not always a sign of marriage, though they were worn on the third finger of your left hand because that finger has a vein that goes straight to your heart! These rings were made with twisted copper or hair.

 

In 1215, Pope Innocent III decided that a couple needed to wait before they got married. After they became engaged, they wore rings to signify their commitment until their wedding day.

 

The first diamond engagement ring was worn by Mary of Burgundy when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed in 1477. Diamonds were still rare and only the wealthiest of people were able to afford them.

 

Different Types of Diamonds (and Their Characteristics)

 

There are several different types of diamonds.

  • Natural diamonds. These diamonds are white and colourless, probably what you imagine when you think about diamonds.
  • Treated diamonds. These diamonds are artificially enhanced or manipulated so that they look better. Most of the time, filling is added to hide any imperfections that the diamond may have. These diamonds are usually much cheaper than other diamonds.
  • Man-made diamonds. These diamonds are made in a laboratory. As they become easier and cheaper to make, they are becoming more popular.
  • Coloured diamonds. These rarities, there is usually about one coloured diamond to every ten thousand white ones, are becoming more popular. Though many think about pink and canary yellow ones, diamonds can come in all colours. Here is a guide to diamond colours.

 

Different Cuts and Shapes

 

The cut of a diamond refers to proportions, finish, symmetry, and polish of the diamonds. The better the cut, the more brilliantly the diamond shines.

 

The cut is also applied to the style or shape of diamond. There are many that are available today that are popular. These include:

  • Round brilliant
  • Ascher
  • Pear
  • Emerald
  • Heart
  • Radiant
  • Baguette
  • Cushion
  • Trillion
  • Oval
  • Cushion
  • Princess
  • Marquise

 

What Makes Different Colours in Diamonds?

 

In order to make a flawless diamond, conditions must be perfect. In fact, any imperfect conditions can change the way that a diamond looks.

 

This is one of the reasons why diamonds are coloured. Though many people like them, they are actually considered imperfect diamonds.

 

To get coloured diamonds, scientists believe the following conditions are met:

  • Blue is made by any boron that it comes in contact with.
  • Yellow has extra nitrogen.
  • Radiation causes green diamonds.
  • When diamonds are red or pink, scientists believe it is due to changes during their voyage to the surface of the earth.

 

Tips to Choose the Right Diamond for Perfect Jewellery

 

It can be overwhelming when it comes to finding the right diamond for the jewellery. These tips should help you decide which diamond you want.

 

Figure out what shape you want. If you are unsure about the shape, you may want to stick with a round or princess cut, since they are the most popular. Indeed in our experience, round brilliants are best sellers not only because they sparkle the most but also because there are so many great examples to follow!

 

Consider what carat you want. The carat is the weight of the diamond. Many already know what carat they prefer, or a rough idea.

 

Then, get the highest quality diamond that you can afford in the shape and carat you want. When looking at this, you will need to look at the following:

 

  • Clarity. If you are obsessed with perfection, you are going to need a diamond that is in the category VVS2 or better. However, the most common range is the VS1-VS2. These diamonds are almost flawless to the naked eye. A more affordable option is SI1 because the flaws are still not noticeable to most people who will be looking at your diamond.
  • Cut. The better the diamond is cut, the better that it shines. A well-cut diamond looks symmetrical and well-proportioned. The shape is also important when determining the cut.
  • Shape. Round, princess, cushion, oval, pear, and marquise are better at hiding any imperfections in your diamond. Emerald and Asscher aren't able to hide them as well. If you can afford a better diamond, you might select an emerald or Asscher cut. If not, stick to a round or princess cut.
  • Colour. Most people want a colourless white diamond. However, that can be very expensive. In fact, most diamonds which look that way, have some yellow or brown in them. Diamonds are graded from D (colourless) to Z (heavily coloured). The difference between most of these are very subtle, and most people can't see the difference between one or two grades on the scale.
  • Look at different clarity, shapes, and colours until you find the perfect combination. Certain cuts are more forgiving than others so you might be able to get a lower colour grade diamond without a noticeable difference. By looking at multiple options, you can make a good decision.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your jewellery expert can help you find the perfect diamond for the jewellery that you want. They know and understand everything there is about diamonds and will work with you and your budget so that you are happy with what you buy.

 

The key takeaway from this short guide is that considering all the variables to find your ideal diamond is essential. Diamonds vary enormously (much like their owners!) and understanding the subtleties within will help you make the most informed decision possible.

Looking for your next piece of jewellery?

 

Don't hesitate to contact us to help you find the perfect piece of jewellery. We can help you find something that is perfect for you and your budget!