History
Around 500 BC in the enchanting land of India, where the first diamonds were discovered. At this time, the world marveled at these precious gems in their raw, unpolished form. They where cherished not just for their rarity, but also for their alleged mystical properties .Diamonds adorned rings and pendants, they would normally have been kept loose, or worn in rings or pendants in their rough form.
Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and diamonds began to sparkle in the crowns and jewelry of European royalty, solidifying their status as regal gems. Fast forward to 1725, and the sparkle of diamonds found a new home in Brazi with the opening of diamond mines, ushering in a new era of accessibility. The South American nation quickly rose to become the world's major diamond producer, capturing the world's imagination with its dazzling treasures.
The early 18th century, India was the primary source of diamonds, and they were revered not only for their stunning appearance but also for their believed supernatural powers. Diamonds adorned the regalia of monarchs and were even thought to bring courage and invincibility in battle.
However, Brazil's reign was destined to be eclipsed by the discovery of diamond crystals in the sprawling landscapes of South Africa. In the year 1866, history took a sparkling turn as the first diamonds were unearthed in alluvial deposits along the Orange River's bed, near its source in South Africa. This discovery marked a pivotal moment, shifting the epicentre of the diamond world. The glittering journey continued in Kimberley, where open-cast mining commenced in 1871, giving birth to the South African diamond industry. The mines of Kimberley unveiled a wealth of diamonds, shaping the industry's landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the global fascination with these precious gems. It was this discovery of diamonds in South Africa in the late 19th century that truly revolutionized the industry, making diamonds more widely available to people around the world. This newfound abundance transformed diamonds from rare treasures to a more widely appreciated luxury.
As we journey through time, we encounter the famous Cullinan diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered, weighing a jaw-dropping 3,106 carats. Gifted to King Edward VII, it was eventually cut into several stones, the largest of which now adorns the British Crown Jewels.
In the ever-evolving tale of diamonds, today's narrative takes us to the Southern Hemisphere, where Australia has claimed the title of the largest overall producer of these mesmerizing gems. The vast and diverse landscapes of the Australian continent hide beneath their surface a wealth of diamonds, continuing the tradition of contributing significantly to the world's diamond production. Meanwhile, on the African continent, Botswana has emerged as the leading producer of quality gems. Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Botswana's diamond industry has flourished, with a focus on producing high-quality diamonds that captivate with their brilliance and purity. As the diamond story unfolds across the globe, these two nations stand at the forefront, shaping the contemporary narrative of the diamond industry with their unique contributions to both quantity and quality.
From the mystical allure of ancient India to the dazzling expanses of Brazil and the diamond-rich soils of South Africa, the history of diamonds is a kaleidoscope of brilliance, mystery, and enduring allure. each discovery and chapter in the diamond's story adds a facet to its multifaceted history. Join us in exploring the evolution of diamonds, where rough stones transformed into symbols of eternal love, luxury, and enduring elegance.