Human beings have had a long and tempestuous relationship with diamonds. From the highly regimented hierarchy the ancient Indians imposed on the gemstone (reflecting both the caste system and a sophisticated comprehension of gemology), and the early Medieval categorization of the diamond as one of the lesser precious gemstones, to Marilyn Monroe’s famous line “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” and the outrage spawned by the sale of “blood diamonds,” this gemstone has some serious history.
Antique-Style Rose Cut Diamond Earrings
Considered to be the king of gemstones, the diamond is exceptional for both its beauty and durability. Its strength has long been recognized but it has only been a few centuries – with advancements in cutting techniques – since the diamond’s true allure has become widespread. Lapidarian Bruce Knuth comments that the name is derived from the Greek “adamas,” which roughly translates to “invincible,” or, “of extreme hardness.” It is from this Greek term that we also derive the words “adamantine” and “adamant” — the first referring to a mythical substance (typically a metal) which was thought to be the hardest substance in the world and thus unable to be cut, and the latter functioning as an adjective to describe inflexibility, and unyielding determination. It is no wonder, then, that the diamond is also the birthstone for the month of April — which features the strong-willed Aries as the predominant Zodiacal sign.
Hammerman Brothers Diamond Bracelet in Platinum
Aries is the first sign in the Zodiac and as such represents the beginning of things as well as the origin state from which things begin. Symbolized as a ram, this sign is well-known for its leadership qualities, marked intelligence, and adventurousness. Conversely, the sign is also known for its ego, short-temper and stubborn insistence on its consistent righteousness. Like a diamond, the Aries personality is incredibly strong and often flashing with brilliance which makes both those born under this sign and the gemstone irresistibly attractive.
Mid-Century Diamond Brooch in Platinum
Even though the diamond is the April birthstone, there is no season when it is out of fashion. On earrings, classic engagement rings, necklaces or bracelets — the diamond is our favorite go-to gemstone for adding that special sparkle.
