History of Diamonds: From India to the LA Diamond District

Sep 25th 2019

When you search for diamond jewelry you are following a long-standing tradition of admiration for these precious gems. Diamonds have been valued for their beauty and practical uses for thousands of years.

Early Uses of Diamonds

Some of the first recorded uses of diamonds date back to India in the 4th century BCE. After their discovery, they were rightfully sought after for both practical reasons and their beauty. The diamonds mined in India were quickly distributed to traders who then introduced them to countries all around the world.

Source: History of Indian Jewelry and its Origin

Diamonds were used in these ancient times as jewelry, cutting tools, to ward off evil and provide protection in battle, and even as a medical aid! Some people believed these precious stones could heal ailments and speed up the healing process if the diamonds were swallowed.

Source: Diamond Cutting Tools

One problem faced by diamond mining was that diamonds were only found in India, and the mines located there were soon running low on the precious stones. Luckily, in 1866 a young boy in South Africa discovered a large diamond on the banks of a river in Hopetown which then turned this village into one of the diamond meccas of the world. The rise of diamonds flooding the market caused the price to significantly decrease, allowing the stones to be much more affordable.

Tradition of the Engagement Ring

While diamond engagement rings may seem like a very common practice to us, this tradition is actually very modern. The earliest recorded engagement rings were given in Ancient Roman times as both symbols of marriage but also of friendship. The first diamond engagement ring was commissioned In 1477 by the Archduke Maximillian of Austria for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy.

"Throughout the 1900’s diamond engagement rings became even more popular globally, becoming the world-renowned sign of an everlasting and pure marriage."

This sparked a trend among nobility and aristocracy who soon were also giving diamond engagement rings to their future wives. Throughout the 1900’s diamond engagement rings became even more popular globally, becoming the world-renowned sign of an everlasting and pure marriage. In fact, only 20% of engagement rings given today do not feature diamonds.

Diamonds are still considered one of the most valuable materials on earth, both for their physical and sentimental value. Our role here at Icing On The Ring is to help you select your very own diamond which will be a symbol of your affection and dedication to your future bride. Schedule your visit today.

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