The year in birthstones
April represents renewal, growth and transformation. Spring is in full bloom and alive with the sights, sounds and smells of new life. The birthstone for April is diamond- one of the most iconic and celebrated gemstones in the world.
Diamonds in jewellery
Diamonds represent strength, power and eternal love. They are a 10 on a Mohs hardness scale which makes them the best option for engagement rings or pieces that can be worn every day with minimal risk of scratching.
History of diamonds
Diamonds were first recorded in India over a thousand years ago, primarily in riverbeds. The word “diamond” originates from the Greek word “adámas,” meaning “unconquerable” or “unbreakable”. The ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were tears from the Gods, thought to be mystical and powerful stones.
Diamonds eventually made their way over to Europe, where they adorned royalty and eventually nobility. The first ever diamond was given as an engagement ring in 1477, by Archduke Maximilian of Austria when he proposed to Mary of Burgundy.
Salt and pepper diamonds
Very few of the diamonds mined historically were seen as a quality suitable for diamond jewellery. The term ‘Salt and Pepper’ refers to a combination of visible black carbon and colourless inclusions found in a stone. Salt and Pepper diamonds were not deemed valuable due to their inclusions- so would have been discarded, or ground down into dust to be used in manufacturing processes.
In recent years, these diamonds have been welcomed into the jewellery industry and celebrated for their uniqueness.
This showstopper signet features an amazing shield shape salt and pepper diamond weighing 3.14ct. Click here to find out more.
Lab diamonds
Lab diamonds are a great option to get a high quality diamond at a much lower price point. They are chemically identical to mined diamonds and there is no optical difference whatsoever.
Excitingly, lab diamonds are now also available in different colours. This gorgeous lab-grown fancy vivid green radiant cut diamond is the perfect option if you’re looking for a pop of colour with the incredible sparkle of a diamond.
Diamonds are forvever
Not only are they the hardest gemstone available, but diamonds are also a wonderful choice for all different kinds of jewellery. They’re a great option if you’re looking for something traditional and classic, or you can add a bit of edge by opting for a funky salt and pepper diamond. Whatever your style is, there’s defiantly not a lack of choices when it comes to this versatile gemstone.
Love, Team Baroque
