Among the different precious stones, there is none that rivals the diamond in beauty and elegance. The word “diamond” comes from the Greek and literally means “unbreakable,” a fitting name for the world’s hardest natural substance. They were probably first mined in India between 3,000 and 6,000 years ago. Today, they are mined all over the world: from Russia, South Africa, North America and Australia. Improved technology and shaping methods have made diamonds more valued than ever before; for alliances, earrings, pendants and bracelets for every occasion.

world famous diamonds

• The Great Star of Africa is the largest cut diamond in the world at 530.2 carats. It is embedded in the Royal Scepter and is part of the British Crown Jewels. The Star Africa Diamond weighs 106 grams.
• The 105.6-carat Koh-I-Noor (“Mountain of Light”) has a long and interesting history, steeped in legend. First mentioned in writing in 1304, it passed from Mughal and Persian rulers to Queen Victoria during the Indian colonial era, and is now part of the British crown jewels as well.
• The Excelsior was the second largest diamond discovered at 970 carats before being cut into 10 diamonds.
• The Regent is relatively small compared to other famous diamonds, weighing in at 140.50 carats, but is distinguished by its perfect cut and clarity. Some have called it the most beautiful diamond in the world. The Regent was discovered in India in the 17th century and is in the Louvre museum in Paris.

Cultural Status

There is no doubt that diamonds enjoy a questioned status in many cultures when it comes to prestige, glamour, beauty and quality. They are seen as a long-term investment in some countries, but everywhere, their initial beauty expresses a distinctive sophistication. Modern movie stars and the golden age of Hollywood have had love affairs with diamonds. Marilyn Monroe, Madonna and Elizabeth Taylor are just some of the celebrities who have made their passion for diamonds known, the Taylor-Burton diamond being a gift from Richard Burton to his then wife Elizabeth Taylor, one of the most famous diamonds and admired of all time.

types of diamonds

Only 20 percent of diamonds are used for jewelry. The remaining 80 percent is used for industrial purposes. Diamonds come in five natural colors: white, yellow, blue, pink, and champagne, with white diamonds being the most common and often the most sought after. The clearer the white diamond, the more valuable it is. Yellow diamonds range from pale yellow to a deep rich yellow. Blue diamonds are also popular, ranging from a pale sky blue to indigo. Champagne diamonds range from a light, almost bronze hue to a rich gold.

Pink diamonds are among the rarest of diamonds; the Argyle mine in Western Australia produces about 95 percent of the world’s supply. Of the Argyle mine’s production, only 1 percent qualifies as true rose. Pink diamonds from other mines in India, Africa, and Brazil tend to be lighter in color. Pink diamond rings can be 10 to 100 times more expensive than white diamond rings, although jewelry made with other colored diamonds is often less expensive than white diamonds.