The diamond derives its name from the Greek word adamas, meaning unconquerable.
The Diamond is the hardest substance on earth.
Diamonds are formed under extreme heat and pressure deep within the earth's crust, and come to the surface through volcanic eruptions.
Most diamonds found in nature are between one and three billion years old.
80% of the world's diamonds are not suitable for jewelry.
Diamonds are the only gemstones composed of just one chemical element, carbon. Although crystal-clear, it is black when reduced to dust.
In 1994, Pauline Willemse cut the world's smallest diamond. It was 50 times smaller than the head of a ballpoint pen.
The largest diamond ever found was the Cullinan at 3,106 carats. Known also as the Star of Africa, it adorns the scepter of King Edward VII of England. The Tower of London is its current home.
Most expensive diamond: $16,548,750. It was bought in 1997 and was 100 carats.
The easiest way to spot the difference between a diamond and cubic zirconia is to weigh it. Cubic zirconia weigh 55% more than diamonds.
A diamond's cut is critical to its final beauty.
Diamonds can be completely consumed by fire at temperatures ranging from 1,400° to 1,607° F., depending on the hardness of the gem.
The engagement diamond is worn on the third finger of the left hand, because the ancient Egyptians believed that the vein in that finger ran directly to the heart.
The first recorded diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy from Archduke Maximillian of Austria in 1477 as a betrothal gift.
On May 13, 1888, using a pen encrusted with diamonds and emeralds, the Princess Imperial Regent Dona Isabel signed the decree ending slavery in Brazil. With a single stroke, she liberated 1,500,000 men, women and children, and brought freedom to the last slave-holding country in the western hemisphere.
The 4 Cs , the characteristics by which a diamond's value is determined, were introduced in 1939.
It is believed that a diamond: endows the wearer with courage and fortitude; brings victory and good fortune; wards off evil; protects against the plague; promotes constancy in a marriage.
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