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April Birthstone: Diamond

For those fortunate to be born in April, their birthstone is potentially the most well-known gemstone of all. Take a look below to learn about the diamond, a gorgeous birthstone.

Key Qualities of Diamonds

You probably already know of the diamond’s toughness. In fact, it’s the hardest gemstone and is made of just one element: carbon. Its structure makes it 58 times harder than anything in nature. A diamond can only be scratched by another diamond. While it’s become nearly synonymous with wedding engagements, it’s also the perfect gemstone for individuals who want something that’s just as appropriate for everyday wear as it is for special occasions. The diamond’s unique physical properties give it the best possible luster of any transparent gemstone when cut and polished well. A well-cut diamond's ability to refract light as both brilliance and fire means that if you like sparkle, a diamond is the gemstone for you.

Exceptional Hardness

Superior Brilliance

Everyday Wearability

Diamond Jewelry Highlights

Color & Clarity: Diamond gemstones range from colorless through light yellow or brown within the normal D-to-Z color-grading scale. Fancy color diamonds include yellow and brown colors beyond Z, as well as any other color on the spectrum, including red, pink, orange, green, blue, purple, gray, black, and fancy white. They range in intensity from faint to vivid. Generally speaking, the more saturated the color, the higher the value. In fact, diamonds sparkling with intense color are rare and may be priced higher than a colorless diamond of equal size. Because fancy color diamonds are very desirable, color is sometimes introduced in a laboratory. These are correctly called “color-treated” diamonds.
History & Lore: The diamond first became a popular gemstone in India, when the Moghuls and Imperial Colony easily mined diamonds from deposits along three major rivers. Diamond’s hardness initially stumped gemstone cutters, but once they discovered how to fashion and facet them, they grew in popularity. The first recorded use of diamonds in an engagement ring occurred in the 15th century, and since then, diamond engagement rings have been associated with lasting love.
Jewelry Usage: The diamond gemstone is most widely known as the gem to feature in an engagement ring, but it is used in a variety of jewelry pieces, from diamond studs and bracelets to tiaras.
Care & Treatment: Diamonds can be cleaned with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Along with avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, diamond jewelry should be removed during any strenuous activity and stored separately.

The History of Diamonds

Diamonds have been admired for centuries. Some historians estimate they were traded as early as 4 BC. But before this process was understood, many ancient civilizations believed that diamonds were lightning made real on Earth.

We have since learned that diamonds form deep beneath the Earth’s crust before they are brought to the surface in kimberlite. Now diamonds are also appreciated scientifically for the rare circumstances and pressure that are required to create them. Perhaps this is the reason that diamonds have often been associated with great healing powers. Old legends stated the diamond could cure brain disease, alleviate pituitary gland disorders, and draw toxins out from the blood.

Want to find the perfect diamond set for you? Find an American Gem Society jeweler near you.

How to Buy Diamond Gemstones

Whether you’re celebrating an April birthday or a 60th or 75th wedding anniversary, giving a diamond gemstone means giving a beautiful gift that will truly stand the test of time.

We’ve written extensively on our site about diamond buying. Learn more about our American Gem Society Diamond Grading System, the 4Cs of diamonds, and our comprehensive diamond buying guide.

Find an AGS Jeweler

Work with a credentialed AGS jeweler who is dedicated to ongoing education, ethical practices, and helping you make informed decisions.

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