The Greeks and Romans believed that diamonds were tears from the Gods and splinters from falling stars. In fact, the word "diamond" comes from the Greek word, "adamas," which means unconquerable. Medieval knights wore uncut diamonds in their armor, believing the stones would make them invincible. Hindus thought the stones to be so powerful that they placed them in the eyes of their statues.

The forerunner of today's engagement ring, a slim iron hoop ring - symbolizing the cycle of life and eternity - was given to brides in ancient Rome from 23 to 79 A.D. as a public pledge that the marriage contract would be honored. One of the earliest recorded instances of a diamond ring given specifically to seal a betrothal was during the marriage of Constanzo Sforza and Camilla d'Aragona of Pesaro, Italy, in 1475. Archduke Maximilian of Austria further established the tradition when he presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy upon their engagement in 1477. As Mary said "yes," Maximilian slipped the diamond ring onto the third finger of her left hand.

Major advances in diamond cutting techniques occurred in the early 1500s, when goldsmiths created a new shape and brilliance - the table-top cut. This historic first step toward modern polishing was to become a significant feature of 16th Century diamond rings. One such design - the gimmel, or twin ring - was the choice of Martin Luther when he married Catherine Bora in 1525.

Jewelers have continued to create new ways of presenting the diamond set in elaborate band designs and using advanced methods of diamond cutting and polishing to reveal the full beauty of the stone. When the world's supply of diamonds increased with the discovery of diamond mines in Brazil during the 18th century, more people discovered they could afford diamond jewelry. By the 20th century, platinum had become universally adopted, inspiring the creation of new diamond cuts - emerald, square, rectangular and pear - with the stones set as solitaires or in clusters. The large center stone with baguette diamond shoulders became an engagement ring classic.

Until the late 19th century, diamonds were found only in a few riverbeds in India and in the jungles of Brazil. In 1870, huge diamond mines were discovered near the Orange River in South Africa. Today, gem-quality diamonds are mined around the world. The largest producers are South Africa, Russia, Australia and Brazil. The hardest substance known to man, diamonds have long been revered for their strength and beauty. Today, the diamond symbolizes love, strength and beauty, and the diamond engagement ring remains one of the most enduring symbols of love. Diamond is the birthstone for April.

Source: http://search.msn.com


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