Diamond History
A Brief Introduction to History of
Diamonds
Rich in myths and folklore, as it is in physical facts and records, diamond history varies greatly depending on
your source of information and documentation. Diamond history is one filled with mythical stories, such as one
where snakes guarded a land full of diamonds, and the history has fascinated people with the romance and beauty
that surrounds our most precious gemstones; diamonds.
The value of diamonds shifted throughout diamond history from mythical and health purpose to that for their
overall worth, as we recognize it today.
Early Diamond History
The first ever diamond history was recorded around 3,000 years ago in the country of India. If diamonds had been
found prior to this period of time, we have no written record of it. Diamonds in this day and age were used for two
main purposes, and is quite different from why we still love diamonds today. Diamonds stood as a talisman in order
to fend off evil spirits, and to provide protection during battles, and they were also valued because of their
ability to reflect the light.
Dark Ages of Diamond History
It is during the dark ages that the diamond history moved into having some sort of medical purpose. St
Hildegarde was said to have written an anecdote to heal wounds and cure illnesses that instructed the sick to hold
a diamond in their hand and make the sign of the cross. Some people in diamond history went as far as swallowing
diamonds, hoping it would cure their illnesses magically.
Middle Ages of Diamond History
It was during the middle ages that diamonds began to gain popularity. It is at this point in diamond history
that many of the famous diamonds were discovered, including the Blue Hope, and the mountain of light, both found in
India. In our current times, India remains the worlds finest polishers of diamonds.
The middle ages also saw a shift in diamond history - where previously diamonds were valued based on their
mythical powers, they began to be valued more for their overall worth. As more people learned of the incredible
value of diamonds, mine owners began circulating stories that diamonds were poisonous, to prevent the workers from
swallowing diamonds as a means to smuggle them out of the mines undetected.
Also during this period of diamond history, people wanted diamonds more than any other time period previously,
mostly because they recognized their power and worth. India's diamond supply was dwindling and was unable to meet
demands of diamond buyers. South Africa's find of diamonds near the Orange River began the world's largest diamond
rush of diamond history, and helped satisfy the demands of those wanting diamonds for themselves.
More Recent Diamond History
Diamond history began to spread into eastern Australia sometime during the middle of the nineteenth century.
During the late 1970's, Australia as a diamond producer became validated. Also in the late 1970's, 1979 to be
exact, the Argyle pipe near Lake Argyle was discovered by geologists. Since that day, Argyle has become the
absolute largest producer of diamonds in all the world and throughout diamond history, and produces over one third
of the diamond volume each year.
Today diamonds are valued both for their intrinsic beauty and their investment value.
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