April Birthstone Colour – Diamond
If there's one gemstone that carries serious clout, it'd be the diamond — sturdy, timeless, and downright dazzling; there's nary a better birthstone for April babies! Diamonds bring sparkle and glamour, but also love, courage, and clarity. And given what these past few years have been like, these qualities are nothing but welcome.
Here’s your crash course in diamond history, meaning, and care.
Taking A Shine To April's Birthstone Colour
April’s birthstone — the diamond — is a crystalline form of pure carbon (similar to graphite or coal) arranged in a lattice structure. It's impressively tough, and quite possibly the hardest substance found in nature.
Diamonds can be transparent, translucent, or opaque. And although colourless diamonds are most popular, this April birthstone also comes in many hues — from classic white and yellow, to rarer shades like brown, red, pink, blue, green, and black.
History Of Diamond Birthstone
Found in streams, rivers, glaciers, and ocean currents, diamonds have been used and traded in India from as far back as the 4th century BC. Because of the stone’s ability to refract light, it was an attractive status symbol for India’s wealthy classes. Gradually, Indian diamonds were brought to Western Europe in the caravans that travelled to Venice’s medieval markets. By the 1400s, diamonds became fashionable accessories for Europe’s elite.
The modern diamond craze, however, really only began in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond engagement ring. This set the precedent for centuries to come and by the 19th century, diamonds were seen as the ultimate jewellery — a symbol of wealth, influence, and social status.
Today, diamonds remain the world’s forbidden-fruit — only 20-30% of all diamonds mined are of a quality suitable for jewellery, and the 4C’s — color, cut, clarity, and carat weight guide the industry’s pricing.
Diamond Birthstone Meaning
For centuries, diamonds have been revered for their seemingly otherworldly properties. The ancient Romans thought that the striking gems were splinters of stars that had fallen from the sky, while the ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were actual tears of the Gods, crystallized in time. Both ancient cultures believed that diamonds held the power to ward off evil, bring luck, and even grant eternal life.
In addition to their mythical powers, diamonds also championed political might and aristocratic rule. In the Middle Ages, monarchs and rulers established their authority and rank by wearing embroidered garments of shimmering diamonds.
And yet, their symbolism continues to evolve. In more recent times, this April birthstone has become an almost universal symbol of excellence; the ultimate icon of achievement and success. For some, diamonds also represent biblical purity, along with more modest values such as transparency, philanthropy, and authenticity.
As a sign of devotion and promise, nothing quite holds the same significance as a diamond. Since the 15th century, diamonds have been a universal symbol of love and fidelity — an everlasting bond of union, commitment, and companionship. As the sentiment goes, “diamonds are forever”.
Caring For Your Diamond Birthstone
A diamond's hardness lends itself nicely to jewellery: this April birthstone makes for great heirloom pieces, largely because of its long-lasting wear and endurance.
When cleaning your diamond, use warm water and a mild detergent like gentle dish soap, and be sure to wipe away any moisture afterwards. Avoid harsh detergents, acidic solutions, and solvents, as they can weaken the metal setting of the jewellery.
The Bottom Line
With their long history and powerful symbolism, diamonds continue to hold pride of place in the human narrative. This little cut of carbon — forged under immense pressure and transforming into an objet d'art — represents all the best things in life: strength and success, but also steadfast love, friendship, and righteousness.
Embrace elegance with DeGem's signature diamond birthstone jewellery collection. The perfect way to elevate your look — take your pick from from bracelets, to earrings, necklaces, and more as you discover a world of design possibilities. Or personalize your piece for a truly unique look.
