|Structure: Cubic|Composition: Carbon|Moh's Hardness: 10|
Rough diamonds resemble sugar cubes
Diamond
Birthstone of April.
From the Greek adamantos (invincible) diamond is almost the hardest substance known to man, the only mineral harder is lonsdaleite, which only forms on meteorite impact.
Enormous pressures have converted carbon to this glass like mineral. Formed at least a billion years ago in the earth's core, they were formed 90 miles below the earth's surface and lifted to the surface in magma.
Diamonds have a perfect cleavage.
Detail of the Lyte Jewel, showing the basic cut of the diamond.
The Lyte Jewel of James I/VI features tablet cut diamonds circa 1610
Originally, when all stones were cut en cabochon, their true fire was not appreciated, but as the methods evolved through the years stone faceting was developed with more complex cuts.
Faceting was first worked during the 1200-1300s and it was only then that they revealed their true brilliance.
The perfect diamond is white, but other colours are caused by impurities: Over ¾ of diamonds mined are used in industry. Black or "Bort" diamond is coloured by graphite inclusions.
For innocence, success, conjugal affection and unshakeable faith, also worn for strength.
The 20th Century brought the technology for exquisite and minute diamond cuts.
