Diamond Mine
in South Africa
The History of Diamonds

How Diamonds Are Formed

Diamonds form under immense heat and pressure, hundreds of miles deep in the earth. Volcanic explosions force them upward after nearly 100 million years of formation. The magma solidifies into a blue mass called kimberlite, where the precious rough diamonds are found. Rated 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds are the hardest substance on earth.

Approximately 250 tons of ore are mined and processed to produce a single, one-carat, polished, gem-quality diamond. This is why diamonds are so valuable and unique. Diamond mining began nearly 4,000 years ago in ancient India. Modern mining started in the 19th century in South Africa. Today, Botswana, Russia, South Africa, Angola, Namibia, Australia and Zaire are among the top diamond producing nations, mining nearly 80% of the world's rough diamond supply.

The Aura of Diamonds

A cultural alignment with diamonds has existed through the centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed diamonds were tears of the Gods, and splinters from falling stars. The Hindus attributed great power to these precious stones and placed diamonds in the eyes of statues.

Diamonds were thought to bring luck and success and also change the course of astrological events. Many ancient people wore diamonds as charms believing in their ability to heighten sexual prowess and attract others. Plato even wrote about diamonds as living beings, embodying celestial spirits.

Diamond rings were thought to hold talismanic power in the dark ages. In the middle ages and Renaissance period, rings set with precious stones were considered more than jewelry, as amulets that conveyed magical powers of fearlessness and invincibility. These myths laid the groundwork for monarchs to wear diamonds as symbols of power.

Diamonds today are cherished for their astonishing natural beauty and their aura of being such a special and magical gift. Today, a diamond is more than just a jewel; it is the ultimate symbol of love.

      
Raw diamonds still embedded in Kimberlite rock