Diamond

Diamonds with their brilliance and luster have fascinated men for ages. These gemstones have earned the undeniable status of the most coveted gemstone on earth. For most of the people these astonishing gemstones have become a synonymous to jewelry. Rough diamonds have adorned the armor of many great knights and cut diamonds have been part of crowns and jewelries of the kings and queens.

The first traces of diamonds go back to at least 3000 years; however they are estimated to be mined even 6000 years ago. India was the first country in the world where these gemstones were mined. It was until the late eighteenth century when diamonds were discovered in Brazil, South Africa that India remained the only producer of diamonds in the world.

The ancient Indian scripture, Arthshastras, written in the 3rd Century B.C., provides the earliest written references to this gem. The manuscript describes the gem as well as its various virtues such brilliance and hardness. It also describes the octahedron diamond that was a popular shape given to the diamonds at that time. In ancient India, only the royal family could possess diamonds of all colors. The civil were assigned various colors of diamonds as per their social class. Only the Brahmins (noblemen) were allowed to own the white and the colorless diamonds. Kshatriyas (warriors and land owners) could own the brown or reddish hued diamond. Vaishnav (business class) could own yellow diamonds and Shudras (farmers and laborers) could only own gray or black diamonds.

Trade was common between India and the Mediterranean. Presence of diamonds in the Mediterranean could be traced back to about 100 B.C. Famous Roman historian Pliny the Elder mentioned this gem in some of his works. The word diamond is derived from the Greek word ‘adamas’ which means ‘I subdue’ or ‘I tame’ probably relating to magnificence and the hardness of the gem. Pliny described the gem was used as an engraving tool. It is believed that the engraved Sapphires and cameos of the Romans from first century is a product of diamond engraving points.

The Golconda mine that is located in South West Indian state of Andhra Pradesh at the banks of rivers Godavari and Krishna was the primary producer of diamonds. The mine was also famous for producing some of the finest and the largest diamonds in the world including Koh-i-noor, Hope diamond to name but a few. Golconda was also a major hub of diamond trade. Diamonds were traded out of India by land as well as sea routes.

Diamonds started appearing in the royal jewelry of European Kingdom in 13th and 14th Century. In 13th Century Louis IX of France passed a law reserving diamonds only for the royalties which also signifies the value emphasized on diamonds at that time. Diamonds started appearing in the royal jewelry of both men and women and by 17th century it also started appearing in the jewelry of rich business class.
Myth and Lore

Throughout history diamond has been as much a prized for its magnificence as it has been respected for its mystical powers. Indians had many beliefs regarding this gemstone. The gem was often worn as a talisman. It was believed that a fine diamond with sharp edges brings happiness, riches and prosperity to bearer. If worn by the king, the gem bestows courage and triumph.

In ancient times diamonds were considered an emblem of fearlessness and invincibility. These gems were also believed to ward off evil from its wearer. The Romans believed that diamonds brought bravery and courage during a battle. These gems were also believed to cure madness and drive away ghosts, enchantments and black magic.

Jew priests used the gem to determine the innocence of the accused. If the accused was innocent the gem would glow brilliantly and if guilty it would grow duller.

These gems with their undeniable charm are internationally regarded as symbol of love and faithfulness and probably that is why diamonds are the most popular as gems for engagement ring.