April birthstone: Dazzling diamond jewellery pieces to sparkle in
Famous the world over for its classic beauty, rarity and mesmerising sparkle, April babies can wear effervescent diamond jewellery as their birthstone. Known to be the epitome of timeless elegance, ranging from colourless stones to the rarest blue, the diamond is unparalleled in its strength and allure. Here, is our edit of the most dazzling diamond jewellery pieces.
Diamonds were first discovered in the rivers and streams of India as early as the 4th century BC, when they were considered to be a true symbol of luxury. Diamond jewellery was reserved exclusively for the royal and elite, with diamonds prized as divine objects by Indian rulers. Created deep beneath the earth’s surface over millions of years, a diamond is the result of carbon deposits put under immense pressure at extremely high temperatures. Known as ‘the invincible stone’, it is the strongest of all the precious gems, with only a diamond being able to cut another diamond.
Historically, diamonds were associated with healing properties – during the Middle Ages, diamonds were sought after as amulets thanks to the belief they had mystical and medicinal properties, and many believed that wearing diamond jewellery could cure the plague, as well as protect wearers against the evil eye. Today, diamond jewellery often has a more romantic association. The centrestone of most engagement rings, diamonds have become the physical embodiment of love – pure, clear and everlasting.