Diamonds are by far the most popular choice for engagement rings, and it’s a well known saying that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But what is it about diamond jewelry that makes it the perfect choice for showing your love and commitment to your other half?
In this article, we explain the history and symbolism behind diamonds and how diamond jewelry became so popular.
Where do diamonds originate from?
It is believed that diamonds originate from India. For thousands of years, a region in South India was the only known source of diamonds. Today, the main sources are South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word “Adamas,” meaning unconquerable. Diamonds are the hardest known substances on earth. Because of their strength, they were initially used for purposes such as engraving other gems and drilling holes in hard stone beads. Diamonds were not used as jewelry until the late 13th century in Europe.
Where did the custom of wearing diamond engagement rings come from?
The custom of wearing a ring as a sign of commitment and love comes from the ancient Egyptians. They believed that the vena amoris (vein of love) runs directly from the fourth finger of the left hand to the heart. This is how the tradition of wearing a ring on this finger and hand started.
The tradition of giving a diamond ring in particular, as a representation of love and commitment, began in the 15th century when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring on their engagement.
This tradition stuck and continues today. Every year throughout the world, diamond engagement and anniversary rings are bought and given as gifts to partners and spouses.
External Symbol of love
No other gemstone conveys human emotion more powerfully than a diamond. These stones are magical, earth-grown, rare and timeless. These qualities of diamonds have made them the perfect symbol of eternal love, commitment, and romance. Let’s explore each of these qualities further.
The magic of diamonds
There is a lot of magic and mystery behind diamonds which has fascinated mankind for thousands of years. When it was discovered, no tool could cut diamonds and no fire could burn them, many people became interested in the magic of diamonds, believing that they had unique supernatural powers.
There have been many different beliefs about diamonds. The Romans believed diamonds were shards from the stars. The Indians believed they were good-luck charms warding off illness, thieves, and forces of evil. For the Greeks, they were the tears of God, and to others, they were stones that held knowledge and healing.
These beliefs and ideas are what made diamonds eagerly sought after by the world’s most wealthy and powerful people. It was a common belief amongst kings that wearing a diamond when going into battle would protect them.
Spiritually, diamonds are said to improve the users’ stamina, clear their thoughts, and make them feel more grounded, focused, and committed. This is yet another reason why it’s fitting to give diamond jewelry to the person you love.
The symbolism of the cut
Aside from the mystical and spiritual properties that all diamonds contain, each diamond cut is said to be a specific representation of the wearer. Therefore when purchasing a diamond ring for your other half, it’s worth knowing what each cut embodies, so that you can choose the shape that reflects them the most. If you are looking for a more thorough and practical description of each diamond cut, the experts at DiamondCuts.com offer a comprehensive guide to making the right choice. Below is just a brief guide to what each diamond cut says about the wearer:
- The round diamond – understated and classic
- The oval diamond – influenced by opinion
- The marquise diamond – adventurous
- The heart diamond – real romantic
- The emerald cut – vintage lover
- The pear diamond – creative
- The princess cut – trendy and fashion-conscious
Diamonds are natural
Diamonds are natural stones grown from the earth. Many diamonds were formed between 1–3 billion years ago, which is before dinosaurs roamed the earth. They were formed more than 100 miles underground and it’s believed they propelled to the earth’s surface via ancient volcanic eruptions. On their journey to the surface of the earth, they were able to withstand extreme heat and pressure. This made them strong, resilient and indestructible, which itself is a representation of the strong, unbreakable bond between two soulmates who are destined to be with each other.
Diamonds are rare
Diamonds are a finite natural resource, meaning they will run out. Because of this, diamonds are extremely valuable. An example of their rarity is the argyle diamond mine in Western Australia. Here almost all of the world’s rare pink diamonds have already been found, and the mine is now set to close soon.
Diamonds are known to be one of the world’s most portable forms of wealth. This is because they don’t just hold their value, but their value increases over time. However, the emotional value is equally as important. Just like the monetary value of a diamond ring, your relationship value increases over time, as your bond strengthens and deepens.
Timeless diamonds
Trends come and go but diamonds are one thing that always stays in fashion. They can be passed from generation to generation without losing their sparkle and becoming dull. They will continue to grow in value never losing their appeal and bonding the link between past and future generations. Diamonds last an eternity, just like love, therefore gifting diamond jewelry is the perfect way to show someone your eternal love.
As you can see, although diamonds are a very commercial choice of jewelry, these stones do have a historic symbolism. Aside from being a beautiful, stunning stone to wear, diamonds have a much deeper meaning. This makes them the ultimate choice of jewelry to give to your partner as a sign of true love and commitment.
This is a Sponsored Post – the author has requested this post be shared on WE magazine for Women and WE were compensated for sharing.