April Birthstone: Diamond

People fortunate enough to have been born in the month of April have one of the most coveted gemstones in the world designated as their birthstone, the beloved diamond. Diamonds are known for their durability and incredible sparkle, and they are thought of as a symbol of clarity and strength. This icy treasure was mined and traded as early as the fourth century BCE and quickly became a favorite of royalty and commoners alike.

The name diamond comes from the Greek word ‘adamas’, which means invincible or unbreakable. With a hardness rating of 10 (out of 10) on the Mohs scale, diamonds are the stone all others are compared to in terms of strength and durability. Diamonds are one of the few stones durable enough to be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner. However, if a diamond has been treated or has a substantial amount of inclusions, it is best to clean with warm, soapy water and polish with a lint-free cloth. Due to its value, it is recommended that diamond jewelry be cleaned and inspected annually by a professional jeweler to ensure the stone’s setting remains secure. When properly cared for, diamonds will last for generations.

India was one of the earliest sources of diamonds, but in the 1700s Brazil took the lead as a diamond mine hotspot as India’s supplies declined. Brazil remained a primary supplier for over 150 years. The modern day market has been dominated by South Africa ever since diamonds were discovered near Kimberley in the late 1860s. The largest diamond ever found came from a South African mine in 1905 and was over 3,100 carats. That raw diamond produced the First Star of Africa, a 530 carat diamond that is the focal point of the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross - one of the Crown Jewels housed at the Tower of London. For reference, the well-known Hope diamond is a mere 45 carats.

No matter the cut, color, clarity, or carat diamonds are a favorite of ECD. Whether buying for an April birthday, shopping for an engagement ring, or celebrating an anniversary - diamonds are everyone’s best friend! Invest in quality and spread the sparkle for years to come!