April Birthstone: Diamond
Diamond is the birthstone for April, and the most celebrated gemstone in the world. Prized for its unmatched hardness, exceptional brilliance, and the way it captures and returns light, diamond has been the ultimate symbol of enduring love and commitment for centuries.
Quick Facts
Colour
Colourless (and every colour)
Hardness
10 Mohs
Symbolism
Eternal love, strength, and invincibility
What is Diamond?
Diamond is pure crystallised carbon, formed under extreme heat and pressure deep within the earth's mantle over billions of years. It is the hardest known natural material, rating 10 on the Mohs scale. Diamonds are evaluated by the 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. Today, buyers can also choose lab-grown diamonds, which are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds but created in controlled laboratory environments.
Properties
Colour
While most prized in colourless form (graded D to Z), diamonds occur naturally in every colour including yellow, blue, pink, green, and black. Fancy coloured diamonds are extremely rare and valuable.
Hardness
10 on the Mohs scale, the maximum possible rating. Diamond is roughly four times harder than the next hardest natural gemstone (corundum). It can only be scratched by another diamond.
Origins
Historically from India and Brazil, with major modern sources in Botswana, Russia, Canada, South Africa, and Australia. Lab-grown diamonds are produced primarily in the United States, India, and China.
Lustre
Adamantine lustre, the highest classification, giving diamond its characteristic "fire" and "brilliance." A well-cut diamond returns more light to the eye than virtually any other gemstone.
History
Diamonds were first discovered in India around 4,000 years ago, where they were valued for their ability to refract light. The ancient Romans believed diamonds were splinters of fallen stars. The tradition of diamond engagement rings began in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring. The discovery of diamond mines in South Africa in the late 1800s dramatically increased supply, and the De Beers marketing campaign of the 20th century cemented the diamond as the universal symbol of engagement.
Meaning & Symbolism
Diamond symbolises eternal love, strength, and invincibility. The word "diamond" comes from the Greek "adamas," meaning unconquerable. Throughout history, diamonds have been associated with courage, purity, and faithfulness. As the hardest natural substance, diamond represents an unbreakable bond, making it the enduring choice for engagement rings and milestone celebrations.
How to Care for Diamond
Despite being the hardest gemstone, diamonds can chip along their cleavage planes if struck sharply. Clean diamond jewellery regularly with warm soapy water and a soft brush to maintain brilliance, as oils and lotions can dull the surface. Diamonds are safe for ultrasonic and steam cleaning. Store diamond pieces separately, as they can scratch other gemstones and metals.
Diamond Jewellery Ideas
Diamond is the classic engagement ring stone, available in every shape from round brilliant to emerald cut. Beyond rings, diamond stud earrings are considered a wardrobe essential. Diamond tennis bracelets and pendant necklaces offer everyday luxury. Lab-grown diamonds provide the same beauty and durability at a more accessible price point, making larger carat weights achievable for more buyers.
Shop Diamond Jewellery
Looking for jewellery featuring diamond or similar stones? Explore our handcrafted collections designed with ethically sourced stones.