Diamond: The Gemstone of Strength, Purity, and Light
Diamonds have long captivated humanity with their extraordinary brilliance, unmatched hardness, and symbolism of eternal love. Known as the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth, diamonds possess an allure rooted in strength, purity, and invincibility. Although ÎLE KEKERE chooses not to incorporate diamonds into our jewellery—opting instead for ethically sourced, lab-grown alternatives—we appreciate the historical significance and fascinating story behind this remarkable gemstone.
Origin of the Name
The name "diamond" derives from the ancient Greek word adámas, meaning "unbreakable" or "invincible." This etymology reflects the gemstone’s unrivalled hardness and the belief in its protective and empowering qualities.
Trade Names
Diamonds are commonly classified based on their quality and origin. Trade names typically reference their geographic source or distinctive hues, such as "Champagne Diamonds," "Canary Diamonds," "Cognac Diamonds," "Blue Diamonds," "Pink Diamonds," and "Argyle Diamonds."
Synthesis and Properties
Natural diamonds are created deep within the Earth’s mantle under conditions of immense pressure and high temperature. Composed purely of crystallised carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them the benchmark against which all other gemstones are measured.
Today, diamonds are also grown in laboratory environments using methods like High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). These lab-created diamonds share the same chemical, optical, and physical properties as naturally occurring diamonds, offering an ethical and environmentally responsible alternative.
While predominantly celebrated as gemstones in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and luxury watches, diamonds have diverse applications beyond jewellery. Due to their hardness, diamonds are extensively used industrially in cutting, grinding, and polishing tools. They also play an important role in advanced scientific research and electronics, thanks to their excellent heat conductivity and optical properties.
Colour Variations
Most diamonds are transparent or white, yet natural diamonds exist in many colours. Known as "fancy colour diamonds," these vibrant stones—yellow, pink, blue, green, orange, brown, and extremely rare red diamonds—gain their colours through trace elements, structural defects, or exposure to radiation deep within the Earth.
History
The history of diamonds dates back more than 2,500 years. First discovered and mined in India around the 4th century BCE, diamonds were initially reserved exclusively for royalty and religious figures. The legendary mines of Golconda in India yielded some of history’s most famous diamonds, including the Koh-i-Noor and the Hope Diamond.
In the late 19th century, diamond discoveries in South Africa led to a dramatic increase in availability and shifted public perception, transforming diamonds from a royal rarity into a symbol of eternal love and commitment. The iconic phrase "a diamond is forever," introduced by De Beers in 1947, cemented diamonds as the ultimate engagement gemstone.
Where It Is Found
Natural diamonds are primarily mined in countries including South Africa, Botswana, Canada, Russia, Australia, and India. Major deposits of fancy coloured diamonds, such as the rare pink Argyle diamonds, have historically been found in Australia.
In recent years, the rise of lab-grown diamonds has significantly impacted the diamond industry. These ethically produced stones reduce environmental and social concerns associated with traditional diamond mining.
Legends and Symbolism
Diamonds are steeped in symbolism and legend. In ancient India, they were believed to protect wearers from evil spirits, illness, and misfortune. Romans and Greeks associated diamonds with the gods, considering them fragments of fallen stars or the tears of divine beings. Diamonds are commonly linked to the crown chakra, symbolising spiritual awakening, clarity, and purity of thought.
Why ÎLE KEKERE Does Not Use Diamonds
At ÎLE KEKERE, our commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and spiritual empowerment guides our gemstone choices. We celebrate gemstones that embody deep spiritual meaning, sustainability, and a conscious connection to nature. Given the complex history of diamond mining and the environmental and social issues linked to the diamond trade, we choose instead to highlight gemstones created ethically and sustainably—honouring both Earth and the wearer’s journey.
Five Facts You Didn’t Know About Diamonds
The youngest naturally occurring diamond is approximately 900 million years old, with most being over a billion years old.
Diamonds can burn when subjected to extremely high temperatures, as they are composed entirely of carbon.
Ancient civilisations believed diamonds held powerful healing and protective qualities, often using them as talismans in battle.
Scientists have discovered diamond rains on planets like Jupiter and Saturn due to extreme atmospheric conditions.
The largest diamond ever discovered was the Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106 carats, unearthed in South Africa in 1905.
At ÎLE KEKERE, while diamonds are not part of our jewellery collections, we deeply respect their fascinating history and symbolism. Instead, we proudly craft jewellery with ethically grown gemstones, each imbued with meaning, spirituality, and sustainable elegance.
