April Birthstone: The Diamond
A kiss on the hand may be quite continental, But diamonds are a girl’s best friend.
Leo Robin
There is no shortage of legend and lore attached to this queen of gemstones—the diamond—and no shortage of ink spilled describing its charm and beauty. From time eternal the diamond has been a universal symbol of purity, eternity, durability and perfection. It is also the special gemstone associated with the month of April.
Diamonds in History and Legend: Texts dating as far back as the 3rd century BC have associated the diamond with supernatural powers, especially in warding off evil, reversing the effects of poisoning, and guarding against insanity. According to Greek mythology, when Zeus was disturbed by a group of youngsters on the island of Crete, they were transformed diamonds. Philosophers later believed diamonds were produced by fermentation of the stars.
Culturally diamonds grew in popularity because they were believed to be a stone of reconciliation, especially between husbands and wives. In the middle ages the practice of setting diamonds in engagement rings came into vogue on account of fashions and trends of the day and because of this special relationship-strengthening property—not because they were regarded as exceptionally beautiful or valuable.
Biblical Significance: Like many of the birth gemstones, the diamond is featured as one of the stones God chose to adorn the breastpiece of his temple ministers in the book of Exodus. And though a less honorable description of the diamond, in the book of Zechariah, the diamond becomes a metaphor to describe the hearts of those who did not hear or obey the Lord’s word.
Why Is The Diamond So Special? For centuries diamonds have been an object of legend, mystery and even suspicion. Men throughout history have even thought they could reproduce this stone of inestimable value through their own scientific processes, but all human attempts have failed to bring forth what only God could create from something as ordinary as a lump of coal.
Gifts for the April Birthday: Diamonds have the reputation of being an object of pure luxury—many people assume they are far too expensive for any piece of jewelry other than the engagement ring. With Apples of Gold ethical pricing practices, diamonds are a luxury you can afford. Take a look at some of the highlights from the Apples of Gold diamond jewelry line.
1.00 Carat Round Diamond Stud Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold(above left)
Is there a more charming birthday gift than a pair of diamond solitaire earrings? While the studs shown here are 1 carat weight, set in 18k yellow gold, these earrings are fully customizable, available in a variety of carat weights from one-tenth of a carat to 2 carats. For settings, you have the option of 14k or 18k white gold, 14k or 18k yellow gold, or platinum. For the full selection of diamond stud earrings, see here.
1/4 Carat Art Deco Diamond Ring, 14K White Gold (above right)
One of our most cherished pieces, this ring is a delightful gift. While often given as an engagement ring, this piece is also worn as a promise ring or as fashion jewelry. Women of all ages love the intricacy of the pattern and the unique, eye-catching, flower-enveloped ¼ carat diamond. Also available in 14k two-tone gold.
Small Diamond Solitaire Cross Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold (right)
This dainty pendant makes a beautiful first diamond. Affordably priced and sweetly-sized, you will love giving this necklace to your special girl. The .05 carat diamond pendant comes with an 18’’ box chain and is also available in 14k white gold.
When you think of a diamond, you naturally think of the clear, shining stone that crowns the majority of engagement rings, but the diamond world is full of variety and color—
1 Carat Black Diamond Solitaire Ring (below)
Bold and unique, this black diamond is proof that while colorless diamonds may dominate the market in quantity, they certainly don’t have the monopoly on beauty. No woman can resist the mysterious dark allure of the black diamond solitaire ring.
For more black diamond jewelry see here.
Round Blue Diamond Stud Earrings (above left)
Loved for their unexpected icy blue hue, blue diamonds make an exciting birthday gift for the April woman. Apples of Gold’s extensive collection of blue diamond stud earrings lets you choose the perfect size and setting to your specifications. If she loves sapphire and aquamarine, she’ll be enchanted by our blue diamonds.
To browse the Apples of Gold collection of blue diamonds, see here.
And a little diamond parting wisdom:
Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be known. Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Category: Jewelry History
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