Diamonds are the most mythical of all precious gemstones. Created by a combination of extreme heat and pressure deep within the core of the earth more than 3 billion years ago and brought to the surface by volcanic eruption, most diamonds adorning women today are more than 100 million years old.

Diamonds were first discovered in about 500 BC in India, which remained the world’s only major source for 2000 years. The people who discovered these early deposits thought of diamonds as ‘fragments of eternity.’

The Hindus attributed so much power to these precious stones they went so far as to place diamonds in the eyes of some of their statues.

The Romans thought diamonds were splinters from falling stars, while the Greeks regarded the sparkling gems as tears of the gods. It is a derivation of the Greek word ‘adamas’ meaning unconquerable, which gave the diamond its name.

Not only was it believed that diamonds could bring luck and success, but also that they could counter the effects of astrological events. Many people wore diamonds as charms believing in their ability to heighten sexual prowess and attract others. Plato even wrote about diamonds as living beings, embodying celestial spirits.

Through the centuries, rings have perpetuated the talismanic role of the diamond. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, every ring that was set with a precious stone was not considered so much a piece of jewellery, but more as an amulet that conveyed magical powers like fearlessness and invincibility upon the wearer. This myth laid the groundwork for monarchs to begin wearing diamonds as symbols of power.

Today, diamonds are mined in many countries around the world. Australia alone produces almost 30 percent of the world’s diamonds, mostly from the Argyle Mine in Western Australia.

They continue to hold a deep fascination as the world’s ultimate symbol of love. The diamond’s rarity, durability and natural beauty are the qualities that have contributed to making the diamond such a special and magical gift.