When it comes to birthstones, anyone born in April truly lucked out with one of the most legendary gems of all—the dazzling diamond!

Known for its unrivaled sparkle and incredible strength, the diamond isn’t just a stone; it’s a symbol of eternal love, resilience, and unbreakable bonds. 

From gracing the crowns of royalty to capturing the hearts of romantics, diamonds have cemented their place in history as the ultimate mark of luxury and devotion. 

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of diamonds, uncovering their rich history, their deeper meanings, and a few famous stones that have left an indelible mark.

Let’s dive into the timeless allure of April’s birthstone and discover why diamonds are, indeed, forever.

Diamond History, Meaning, and Notable Examples

Diamonds have been revered for thousands of years, prized for their beauty, strength, and symbolic power. 

Revered across ancient civilizations, diamonds were believed to be fragments of fallen stars or tears of the gods.

Throughout history, diamonds have been considered talismans with the power to grant courage and mental clarity. 

The Greek word for diamond, “adamas,” translating to “unbreakable” or “invincible,” underpins the stone’s association with strength and resilience. 

Over centuries, diamonds evolved beyond symbols of protection to embody ideals of purity and everlasting love, which is why they became the ultimate choice for engagement rings—a symbol of unbreakable bonds and enduring commitment.

Famous Diamonds

Throughout history, certain diamonds have achieved legendary status, celebrated for their extraordinary size, rarity, and rich stories.

The Hope Diamond

The Hope Diamond, weighing an impressive 45.52 carats, is one of the most legendary and mysterious gemstones in the world.

Its deep blue color, created by trace amounts of boron within the diamond's crystal structure, gives it a captivating, almost otherworldly appearance. 

But it’s not just the diamond’s beauty that makes it famous—it’s the rich tapestry of intrigue and misfortune surrounding it.

Believed to have originated from the Kollur Mine in India, the Hope Diamond was initially part of a much larger stone known as the Tavernier Blue, named after the French merchant Jean-Baptiste Tavernier who brought it to Europe in the 17th century. 

Tavernier sold the diamond to King Louis XIV of France, where it became known as the French Blue and was set in the crown jewels. 

Over the years, the diamond changed hands through royalty and high society, even surviving the chaos of the French Revolution, during which it mysteriously disappeared.

By the time it resurfaced, it had been re-cut into the Hope Diamond and had gained a reputation for bringing misfortune to its owners. 

Stories of bad luck and tragedy have followed it ever since, with tales of ruined fortunes, untimely deaths, and ruined reputations. 

This curse-laden mystique only added to the diamond’s allure, sparking widespread fascination and making it an object of desire and dread alike.

The Hope Diamond is currently on display at the Smithsonian Institution based in Washington D.C.

Cullinan Diamond

Another remarkable diamond is the Cullinan Diamond, the largest rough diamond ever discovered, weighing an astounding 3,106 carats before it was cut.

Found in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan was eventually cut into several magnificent stones, with the largest pieces becoming part of the British Crown Jewels. 

The two largest gems, the Cullinan I (or the Great Star of Africa) and Cullinan II, are mounted in the Sovereign’s Sceptre and the Imperial State Crown, respectively.

They still continue to dazzle millions of admirers as symbols of British heritage and grandeur.

Sources, Types, and Colors of Diamonds

Diamonds are mined in some of the world’s most remote and rugged locations.

South Africa has long been a major producer, known for its high-quality stones and historic mines.

Russia is also a significant source, providing a large portion of the world’s gem-quality diamonds, particularly from the Siberian region.

Canada has become a prominent diamond producer, offering ethically sourced gems from mines in the Northwest Territories.

Color Varieties & Significance

While most people think of diamonds as colorless, these gems actually come in a range of hues, each with its unique charm.

Colorless diamonds, especially those in the D-F grade, are the most prized and symbolize purity and clarity. 

However, diamonds also come in rare colors like blue, pink, yellow, and green. 

These “fancy” diamonds are highly sought after, with vivid shades of blue and pink fetching some of the highest prices due to their rarity and vibrancy. 

Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a colorless diamond or the unique allure of a fancy color, diamonds offer endless options to suit any taste.

Our Favorite Diamond Pieces

Ben Garelick Two Tone Lourdes Diamond Swirl Pendant

Gabriel & Co Bujukan Diamond Twist Bangle Bracelet

Simon G Contemporary Bypass Twist Diamond Ring

Diamond Care, Maintenance, and Buying Tips

Diamonds are the hardest natural material, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale, making them highly durable for everyday wear. 

However, to keep your diamond jewelry looking its best, it’s important to clean it regularly. 

Use a mild soapy solution and a soft brush to remove oils and residue. An ultrasonic cleaner can be used for a deeper clean.

Avoid harsh chemicals which could damage any setting or metal components.

Store diamonds separately from other gemstones to avoid scratching softer stones.

Buying Guide

When buying a diamond, consider the 4 Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. 

Aim for a diamond with a good balance of color and clarity, especially if you’re looking for a piece that will stand the test of time. 

The cut is crucial, as a well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully, maximizing its brilliance. 

Carat weight adds to the diamond’s visual impact but should be balanced with the other qualities.

Be sure to ask about the diamond’s origin and any treatments it may have undergone, and look for certification from a reputable organization like the GIA to ensure the gem’s authenticity, sustainability credentials and quality.

Conclusion

April’s birthstone, the dazzling diamond, is a tribute to strength, love, and pure luxury. 

With its unmatched sparkle and resilience, the diamond is more than just a gem—it’s a piece of history, a symbol of unbreakable bonds, and a true showstopper.

Whether you’re treating yourself or searching for the perfect anniversary gift, a diamond is a choice that will stand the test of time and keep shining for generations to come.

Ready to find your perfectly delectable diamond jewelry? Check out Ben Garelick’s extraordinary diamond collection. 

Visit our showroom or connect with one of our expert gemologists online—your April birthstone jewelry awaits!

Peter Manka Jr. - Owner at Ben Garelick

Peter Manka Jr. is a passionate member of the family business who joined Ben Garelick in the early 2000s after working in product licensing for Sesame Workshop & The Jim Henson Company for many years. He obtained a degree in diamonds and jewelry from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in order to sharpen his jewelry skills. He takes great pride in providing exceptional customer service and helping clients find the perfect piece of jewelry.