History of Diamonds
Diamonds have long been considered a symbol of wealth and beauty the world over. These clear, sparkling gems have graced jewelry and other decorative items for centuries. The history of diamonds dates back at least 2,500 years, and humanity has never lost its fascination with this valuable mineral. Few people know the history of diamonds or the many uses for them. A look at the history of diamonds reveals many interesting facts that most are not aware of when they look at their diamond engagement rings, pendants, or diamond chip earrings.
The history of diamonds is believed to have originated in India as far back as before 296 BCE, when the first written reference appears in the Sanskrit text Arthasastra. Indians viewed diamonds as symbols of divinity and used them to decorate religious icons. Carrying a diamond was thought to bring good fortune. As Indian society was based on a caste system, ownership of diamonds was restricted by color. Kings were allowed to own all diamond colors, while those of lower castes were permitted fewer choices. Indians also used diamonds as protection to ward off evil during battle.
In the early history of diamonds, the gems were traded to both the east and west of India. Many cultures recognized the aesthetic and industrial qualities of diamonds—this sparkling mineral looked beautiful, and it was the hardest material known to humankind. The only thing that can scratch the surface of a diamond is another diamond! The Chinese made use of diamonds in ancient times for the primary purpose of engraving jade and drilling holes in beads, as early as the 4th century BCE. However, the history of diamonds experienced a 1000-year gap in Europe after the rise of Christianity, due to restricted flow by Arabic traders between Europe and India as well as early Christians’ rejection of the gem stemming from their use in amulets associated with other religions.
