Global production of rough diamonds hit 134 billion carats in 2017. Diamonds have many uses but their best-known use is as gemstones.
Since ancient times diamonds were mined and traded. Sought after for their beauty and other qualities, diamonds quickly became popular around the world.
While you probably think of diamonds as being the gemstone used in engagement rings, did you know the diamond is also April's birthstone?
We're going to share some interesting tidbits about diamonds which might surprise you.
What You Didn't Know About April's Birthstone
Here are some facts about diamonds you might not know.
Diamonds Come in a Variety of Colors
While you probably think of diamonds as being clear and sparkly, some diamonds come in different colors.
Available in all colors of the rainbow, the various colors of diamond are given different meanings.
This means colored diamonds not only stand out but can convey a sentimental meaning.
Diamonds Occur in Space Too
Astronomers discovered a white dwarf star believed to be a giant diamond weighing in at 10 billion trillion trillion carats.
The star was given the name Lucy in honor of the Beatles hit song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds." And there are probably many more diamond stars in our universe.
In fact, some astronomers believe our sun may one day become a diamond star.
The Largest Diamond on Earth
Found in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan diamond weighed 3,106 carats. Gifted to King Edward, the diamond was cut into pieces.
The remnants created nine large diamonds and 100 smaller ones. The three largest of these diamonds became part of the crown jewels and are on display in the Tower of London.
More Than Just Beauty
While people have valued the aesthetic qualities of diamonds for centuries, they were also valued for other reasons.
In the Middle Ages, diamonds were thought to have powerful healing properties which could cure diseases and other ailments. Some believed diamonds could ward off evil spirits and wore them as talismans.
Other cultures believed diamonds gave the wearer special courage and strength making the wearer invincible. For this reason, kings wore diamonds on their armor to protect them during battle.
Diamonds Form from a Single Element
Made from 100% carbon, diamonds form under the incredible heat and pressure far beneath the earth's crust. Most diamonds range in age from 1 to 3 billion years old.
The heat and pressure help the carbon atoms to bond into the rare crystalline structure which characterizes a diamond. Formed 100 miles or deeper below the earth's surface, they reach the surface by volcanic eruptions.
Less than 20% of all diamonds found worldwide are suitable for use as gemstones.
What's in a Name?
The word Diamond originates from the Greek word "adameas" which means unconquerable and indestructible.
This is appropriate given diamonds are the hardest natural substance found on earth. Incredibly durable, they have a melting point of 6420 degrees Fahrenheit.
Beauty and History
Diamonds have been cherished for their beauty and other natural qualities for centuries. This makes April's birthstone one of the most popular gemstones.
While diamond jewelry styles change over time, the beauty of a diamond never goes out of style.
Want to know more about why a diamond is a perfect gemstone for you? Contact us today and we'll be happy to help answer your questions and help you find the perfect diamond.