The exact origin of diamonds is still something of a mystery, even to scientists. Though the diamond is the hardest of all gemstones, it is the simplest in composition. It is pure carbon, not unlike graphite in a lead pencil, but carbon that has been crystallized.
Somehow many millions of years ago diamonds crystallized under immense heat and pressure, deep in the earth's crust. Then the force of ancient volcanic eruptions drove the diamond bearing molten rock up through pipe like channels towards the earth's surface where diamonds are mined today.
For the last 3000 to 4000 years, diamonds have held special magic for Kings, Queens and their subjects. Diamonds have stood for wealth, power, love, spirit and magical powers. Kings in olden days would wear into battle heavy leather breast plates studded with diamonds and other precious stones.It was believed that diamonds were fragments of stars and the teardrops of the Gods. The diamonds possessed magical qualities of the Gods and held powers far beyond the understanding of the common man. Because of these beliefs, the warriors stayed clear of the Kings and others who were fortunate to have the magical diamonds in their breast plates.
The legacy of the Diamond will continue. It existed at the dawn of civilized man and will adorn for years to come. It will be part of Weddings, celebrations, a part of love and prosperity, a part of intrigue and beauty and a part of every women heart that keeps one on her finger. Men will always swear love by it, and love will always maintain the brilliance of earth’s great gift, the Diamond.
Today diamond symbolizes wealth, durability, status, and peerless quality. Across time and cultures, diamond has also been associated with invulnerability, lightning, magic, healing, protection, and poisoning. In unraveling the history and associations of diamond, we also need to know the history of the words attached to it: Did the words used by the ancient Indians or Greeks signify the same thing they do today, or something very different?.
A diamond's shape is also referred to as its "style". The diamond's shape is NOT to be confused with its CUT: the former stands for the diamond's style while the latter defines the quality of its proportions and polish. Traditionally there are five shape variations . Round Brilliant; Marquise; Emerald Cut; Pear- shaped and oval. You may choose one of those or a more contemporary shape such as Princess-cut or Heart shape, bearing in mind that no form is more "appropriate" than another: the one you choose should be entirely a matter of personal taste.