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April`s Birthstone – The Diamond, A Girl`s Best Friend

By on March 25, 2009
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Did you know that both the modern and traditional birthstone for the month of April is the diamond?  “April-ers” are the only ones that have the lucky privilege of receiving the “King of Gems” as a birthstone.  Additionally, diamonds are valued extremely high and its demand is ongoing.  Today, the diamond is viewed as a symbol of love, courtship, and marriage, and is the most widely purchased engagement ring.

Cubic zirconia diamond for wire wrapping

A round, diamond-like clear white cubic zirconia stone – a fraction of the price of a real diamond, and no one would be the wiser!

Faceted diamond prices vary, and are valued according to four main determining factors (known as the 4 c’s): color, clarity, cut, and carat.  Diamonds can be found in many colors, although the white or colorless is most popular.  Other natural colors include yellow, orange, brown/cognac, pink, light green, lavender, deep blue, and dark green.  The deep blue and green are the rarest and most expensive of the colors.

Over half of all the world’s diamond production and distribution is controlled by a cartel known as “De Beers.”  Although white diamonds unquestionably remain as the most notable gemstone in the jewelry industry, they are not in actuality “rare”.  Diamonds are mined on a massive scale, but the distribution by the cartel is controlled in a limited manner in order to keep the price of the diamond high. Because of the high cost and appeal of diamonds, many imitations are available on the market.  The cubic Zirconia, Zircon, YAG, Moissanite, and Fabulie are commonly used as such imitations.

The diamond is a 10, according to the Moh’s hardness scale, and is the hardest mineral on Earth.  Major sources can be found in South Africa, Zaire, Russia, Canada, Nambia, Botswana, Australia, and Angola.

The more famous diamonds include the Dresden, Hope, Cullinan I (or Star of Africa), Cullinan IV, Nassak, Tiffany, Sancy, Florentine, and the Shah diamond.

Interesting facts:
•    Over 250 tons of rock is blasted for every finished diamond carat

•    Folklore/Metaphysical properties:  The diamond is considered a stone of innocence and promotes purity.  The diamond is also known to enhance trust and loyalty in relationships.  In ancient times, it was used to guard against cowardice.

Click Here to learn other interesting facts about common jewelry making gemstones!