April Birthstone
: Diamond
Birthstone Color: White, Clear
April's
birthstone, diamond, claims the top spot as being the hardest substance
on earth. The ancient Hindus called the Diamond "Vajra," meaning
lightening, both because of the sparks of light thrown off by this gem,
as well as its invincible strength.
Diamonds
have been cherished throughout history, and have been used to embellish
such items as crowns, swords and emblems as well as jewelry. Diamonds
have also been credited for having certain medicinal properties.
During the middle ages, these gemstones were thought to heal illness,
but only if the ailing person took the Diamond into bed to warm it up
first!
Created
deep within the earth under tremendous heat and pressure, diamonds are
actually crystallized carbon. The primary method of bringing diamonds
to the surface of the Earth is volcanic activity. As a result, these stones
are found in either the voloanic rock or are washed into rivers and streams.
Although India is thought to be the first river-bed source of Diamond
mining, today diamonds are found in Australia, the Soviet Union, and Africa.
It was
not until the 16th century when gemstone cutting and polishing techniques
were finally perfected. Prior to this time, it was considered forbidden
to modify the original state of this stone. Today, the value and
appeal of this stone depends mostly upon how skillfully it is cut and
faceted.
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