The subject of this article is the most precious of all gemstones…the diamond. We start off by exploring some of the various myths that have been associated with the diamond over the years, and then start to evaluate some of the finer properties.
The diamond has been coveted and lusted after since the early years of man. In the Middle Ages, the uncut version of the diamond adorned the armor of knights. Their “cut” counterparts were used to adorn the crowns of both kings and queens. Today, the diamond is renowned as the international symbol of love and romance. Investors are interested in these gemstones as well…they are great investments to anyone’s portfolio.
There was a time when the diamond was thought to be endowed with magical powers. It was thought that by merely possessing a diamond, the holder would be endowed with bravery, courage, and superior strength. Hence the reason that knights wore them on their suits of armor. As a side benefit, it was thought that the diamond could ward off the devil and other evil creatures of the night.
The diamond has been attributed to many different things over the years. For example: (1) Sexual Prowess, (3) Sleepwalking, (2) Spiritual Ecstasy, and (4) Invincibility. In order for the holder of the diamond to benefit from these attributes, they would have had to have found the diamond in the wild, its natural location. If the diamond was purchased from another person, then this “contract” would be void. One exception was if the diamond was offered in an exchange of love or friendship (for example, an engagement ring). In this particular case, the magical powers that were associated to the diamond may return.
Four separate castes, that’s how the Hindus classified the diamond. The categories were: (1) The Kshatiya, a brown/champagne colored diamond that prevented old age. (2) The Brahmin diamond, a colorless diamond that provided riches, power, friends, and good luck. (3) The Sudra, a diamond that was gray or black and glistened like a polished piece of metal, which brought about good fortune. (4) The Vasiya, a diamond the color of the “kodali flower” which brought success. Yellow and red diamonds are also available, but they were the exclusive gems of kings.
Let’s examine the diamond from a chemical prospective. From this prospective it is the simplest of all gemstones. It is just plain ole’ crystallized carbon, chemically the same as the substance that is used to make a lead pencil. It is the crystallized pattern of the diamond that makes it different, and the reason that it is so highly prized.
While the diamond is the hardest known substance, it can be chipped if it is hit from a certain angle. It is this principle that permits a gemologist to create the beautiful “cut” versions that we love so much.
Did you know that diamonds come in every color of the rainbow? This is true, but the white diamond is definitely the most popular version of the gem. Irregardless, diamonds of any color make a perfect addition to any fine piece of jewelry.
Betsy Johnson has two great blogs: diamond heart jewelry and open diamond heart jewelry if you would like to learn more.