Diamonds

From myths about diamonds warding off evil, curing illness, and casting spells to its magical draw of beauty and mystique, diamonds are one of the most interesting gemstones man has ever encountered.

The early history of diamonds always speaks about India - even the largest diamonds today come from India (the Koh-I-Noor and the Hope Diamond). Diamonds were valued for their ability to refract light, their strength to mark hard metals, and their beauty (not to mention the myths too). Soon spurred by the value of diamonds and the limited supply, the east enjoyed a very prosperous trade economy. Diamonds were given as gifts to royalty, used for trade, and considered a source of wealth. India was the only place diamonds were available until about the late 1860's at which point a new source was discovered in South Africa - unfortunately these diamonds have been referred to as blood diamonds. There have also been other sources unearthed around the world, but not in great quantity.

This much coveted stone has received much press from its initial discovery. Diamonds continue to captivate audiences everywhere!