Symbolism of diamonds
Diamonds have been valued for their beauty and symbolic powers and qualities from the beginning of civilization. The Ancient Greeks believed diamonds were tears of the gods; the Romans believed they were splinters of fallen stars. In Ancient Rome, diamonds were often worn by men, especially soldiers, set in steel so that they touched the skin in the belief that it would give the wearer bravery and victory in battle. The Hindus would place diamonds as the eyes of religious statutes.
Diamonds are also the April birthstone. "A birthstone is the "gemstone associated with the date of one's birth, the wearing of which is commonly thought to bring good luck or health. Supernatural powers have long been attributed by astrologers to certain gemstones." - from Encyclopedia Britannica.
Of course, the most common symbolism associated with diamonds is that of love and fidelity, which is why diamonds are traditionally used in engagement and diamond rings. Wearing a diamond ring on the ring finger of the left hand usually signifies engagement.
In western culture, diamonds are the traditional emblem of fearlessness and although rarely seen in jewellery prior to the Baroque period, early examples of betrothal jewels incorporating diamonds include the Bridal Crown of Blanche (ca. 1370-1380) and the Heftlein brooch of Vienna (ca. 1430-1440), a pictorial piece depicting a wedding couple.
Today, diamonds are used to symbolize eternity and love, being often seen adorning engagement rings. This modern tradition is widely attributed to the marketing campaigns of De Beers: Though the company may be responsible for popularizing the practice, especially in countries where such a tradition did not exist before--particularly in Japan--the diamond engagement ring can be traced to the marriage of Maximilian I (then Archduke of Austria) to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. While the act did much to advance the Hapsburg empire, it did little to make the diamond ring a widely encountered expression of betrothal.
The inception of the engagement ring itself can be tied to the Fourth Lateran Council presided over by Pope Innocent III in 1215. Innocent declared a longer waiting period between betrothal and marriage; plain rings of gold, silver or iron were used earliest. Gems were more than baubles; they were important and reassuring status symbols to the aristocracy. Laws were passed to preserve a visible division of social rank, ensuring only the privileged wore florid jewels. As time passed and laws relaxed, diamonds and other gems became obtainable to the middle class.
Meaning of Diamonds
Symbolism for diamonds: Diamonds are said to symbolize and embody the qualities of light, life, the sun, durability, unshakable faithfulness, sincerity, and innocence.
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