Tuesday 1 April 2014

Birthstone Unicorns - Diamond (April)

The birthstone for April is the gorgeous diamond, probably one of the best known of all the jewels and certainly one of the most coveted! So, are diamonds really a girl's best friend? Well, I'll let you decide that, but here are some facts and legends surrounding this most precious of gems to help you.

  • The word diamond comes from the Greek word "adamastos" meaning invincible. Being the hardest substance known to man this would seem very appropriate.
  • The Greeks thought that diamonds possessed magical powers, being splinters of stars fallen to earth, crystallized lightening or tears of the gods.
  • The diamond trade flourished towards the 15th century with the opening of Eastern trade routes.
  • In 16th century England uncut diamond crystals were set into "scribbling rings." The exposed points were used by lovers to etch romantic vows into window panes. They have been used as cutting and engraving tools since early times.
  • The Middle Ages saw diamonds used as cures for ailments stemming from the pituitary gland and brain. By heating the crystal and taking it to bed it was said to purge harmful toxins from the body.
  • Diamonds have been worn by kings in battle as a symbol of strength and courage. They have been kept as talismans to ward against poisoning and phantoms.
  • Diamonds are the symbol of love and relationships, and are an ever popular gem in engagement rings.
  • They are considered useful for an individual's balance, clarity and energy especially when combined with amethysts.
  • A diamond is said to bring its owner wealth, happiness and protection.
Happy birthday to all you April born. It is a popular month for birthdays in our house as my eldest daughter and my husband celebrate this month. Sadly I won't be able to buy them any diamonds but maybe they can catch up with their Birthstone Unicorn, Diamond HERE.









19 comments:

  1. Hi Suzanne - I love the historical information you give us under your Birthstone Unicorn posts .. Scribbling Rings - fascinating ..

    Happy Birthday to your daughter and hubby and Easter - lots going on .. hope the sun shines .. cheers Hilary

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    1. Thanks, Hilary, I hope the sun returns soon too.

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  2. I think diamonds are a girl's best friend - if only I could afford some LOL!

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  3. And were used as record player needles.

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    1. That's a new fact to add to me list, thanks Alex.

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  4. and diamonds cut glass :) Love your birthstone posts!

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  5. You've made me see exactly why I need those diamonds. And not for record players or cutting glass either. I'm talking balance and luck.

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    1. We could all do with a dose of luck I think!

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  6. I like diamonds. There are several at the cave. Dwarves play with them. :)

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  7. I love the idea of diamonds as splinters of stars fallen to earth. Love those kinds of stories!
    I can't afford a diamond but I wish I could since I now know it would bring me wealth, happiness, and protection. Damn. :D

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    1. I am particularly fond of that story too, Julie.

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  8. I know a diamond is "just another stone" but truly, it is beautiful, isn't it? Thanks for sharing these tidbits!

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  9. I love reading about those diamonds that are so big and so famous they've been given their own names - like The Star of Africa and The Blue Hope.
    I don't want the kind of diamonds that give balance. I want one so big it throws me off balance forever!

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  10. I've never heard about diamonds being used to release harmful toxins before. Lots of fun facts about one of my favorite stones! Hope your husband and your daughter both have wonderful birthdays!

    Julie

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