The History and Meaning of April’s Birthstone
Birthstones are associated with several values, customs, and religious beliefs. We dig into the history and significance of April's stunning birthstone, the diamond.
Different colour gemstones
Birthstones are thought to have originated with Aaron's breastplate, which contained 12 gemstones representing Israel's twelve tribes. Birthstones were thought to have mystical and magical energies that could be used for protection in ancient Rome. The Hebrew temple priests wore a breastplate decorated with 12 gems, each of which was a different colour.
When the American National Association of Jewellers established an official birthstone list in 1912, each gemstone was formally associated with a specific month of the year.
Birthstone jewellery, such as rings, earrings, and necklaces, are now used to give birthstones as gifts. Generally, birthstones signify good fortune and prosperity to the person wearing them.
April’s birthstone: the diamond
The word diamond is taken from the Greek word “adamas”
According to the Current and Traditional Birthstone Lists, April is honoured with the diamond as its only birthstone, also known as the King of all Birthstones.
The diamond, whose name comes from the Greek word Adamas, which means unconquerable, is a precious gemstone that has captivated the hearts for centuries.
Diamonds are associated with mental clarity, balance and prosperity
Someone born in April, if he wears a diamond, he'll be much happier in his relationships, more competitive in life, and blessed with inner power. Other advantages associated with diamonds include balance, mental clarity, and success.
Diamonds were brought to medieval markets in Venice by caravan
Natural diamonds formed over 3 billion years ago under intense pressure and heat deep within the Earth. A volcanic eruption that occurred several years ago was the reason to brought diamonds to the surface. Diamonds have long been the world's most coveted gemstone and have been admired for centuries. Diamonds are mentioned in Sanskrit texts dating back to 400 B.C. for their extraordinary value and significance. According to some historians, they have been traded since 4 B.C. and were admired by royalty and the privileged.
Caravans brought Indian diamonds to medieval markets in Venice, and by the 1400s, diamonds had become fashionable accessories among Europe's elite and wealthy.
India's diamond stocks started to dwindle in the early 1700s, and Brazil became a significant source. For more than 150 years, Brazil ruled the diamond sector.
The discovery of diamonds near Kimberley, South Africa, in the 1860s marked the start of the modern diamond market.
Diamond and beliefs
Some believe diamonds to be tears of the gods
Beyond their stunning aesthetic and glamorous appeal, diamonds hold a lot of that adds romantic and sentimental value.
Diamonds have a lot of etymological, mythological and spiritual history that adds romantic and emotional meaning to them, in addition to their beautiful aesthetic and elegant charm.
Some ancient texts suggest that lightning bolts produced these priceless stones, while others claim that diamonds are the gods’ tears. Cupid's arrows were considered to be tipped with diamonds by the Ancient Romans.
It was believed that Cupid's arrow was tipped with diamonds.
Diamonds are associated with Venus in Hindu culture, while diamonds are associated with Mars in other ancient beliefs. It comes from warriors' practice to wear diamonds before battle to give them stamina, bravery, and "invincible" defence.
Diamonds were also considered to have magical healing qualities and were thought to treat diseases affecting the brain and pituitary gland. Diamonds were thought to have an absolute purity that allowed them to remove poisonous toxins in the body.