When you want to find the right diamond for your engagement ring, there’s a lot to consider. From the shape and your budget to the 4 Cs, it’s crucial to find balance. However, do you ever find yourself wondering about these precious gems?

The diamond is by far the most prized precious stone on the planet. For centuries, people have coveted this gemstone and built up the myths surrounding it. Today, we want to take a dive into the rich history of this stone. 

We gathered up some of the most fascinating facts and bits of the mythos surrounding the diamond. So, strap in!

Where Diamonds Come From

Diamonds are the hardest natural stone on the planet. They are formed from the extreme pressure and temperatures beneath of the crust of Earth. Then, volcanic activity brings rough diamonds closer to the surface. 

It’s possible to source diamonds across the globe. However, the vast majority come from Canada, South Africa, and Russia. At Sethi’s Fine Jewelry, we go above and beyond to source stunning gemstones from around the world. 

Why Are They So Precious?

Diamonds are nearly as old as the planet itself. Moreover, there’s an increasing rarity in these gemstones because they take billions of years to form. The formation process begins deep below the Earth’s crust. 

From there, very few actually make it close enough to the surface to mine. 

Fun Facts About Diamonds

#1 Tears from the Gods

Both ancient Greeks and Romans believed diamonds to be tears of the gods and splinters from falling stars. Additionally, Romans believed that the tips of Cupid’s arrows had diamonds. 

In fact, this is one of the earliest connections between romantic love and the gemstone!

#2 The Source of Their Rarity

Diamonds are almost as old as our planet. Moreover, they take billions of years to form. Very few of these gemstones actually survive the movement from the depths to a minable part of the surface. 

Due to this process, no two diamonds are quite the same. They each carry unique features, such as the color and internal inclusions. 

#3 A Single Element

These gems are nearly 100% carbon. The carbon atoms bond under the pressure and heat below the earth. This process results in their unique, beautiful, rare crystalline structure. 

#4 Adamas, Invincible

The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word “adamas.” This means indestructible or invincible. That actually makes a lot of sense when you consider this next fact. 

#5 Hardest Material on Earth

These gemstones are made of some hard stuff! In fact, they are the hardest natural substance on the planet. They hit a 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. 

Moreover, the only material able to scratch the surface of a diamond is another diamond. 

#6 The Most Valuable of All Things

For thousands of years, mythical beings and royalty have coveted these precious stones. The collection and trade of diamonds date back as early as the fourth century BC in India, according to some evidence. 

Additionally, the Roman naturalist Pliny stated in the first century AD that the “diamond is the most valuable, not only of the precious stones but of all things in this world.”

#7 The Eyes of Devotion

Ancient Hindus used these precious stones as eyes for devotional statutes. Moreover, many believed diamonds protected the wearer from danger. 

#8 A Source of Strength & Courage

In many ancient cultures, people believed wearing diamonds offered courage and strength in battle. Some kings even wore diamonds in their armor when they joined their forces in battle. 

#9 Healing 

In the Middle Ages, many thought diamonds had healing properties with the power to cure a range of ailments. 

#10 The First Diamond Engagement Ring

The first known use of a diamond in an engagement ring was in 1477. This was when Archduke Maxmillian of Austria offered a gold ring with an M spelled out in diamonds to Mary of Burgundy. 

Diamonds & You

What do diamonds mean to you? 

Throughout history, these precious stones have been an incredible source of joy for many people. At Sethi’s Fine Jewelry, we continue this tradition as we help people craft stunning jewelry. When you want a diamond to make a moment more memorable, trust our Houston jewelry store to help!