Throughout history, diamonds have captured the interest of mankind with its brilliant sparkle and its durability and hardness. There are many myths about diamonds, from it being the tears of gods to pieces of stars fallen from the sky.



One legend even tells of a valley of diamonds in Asia protected by killer snakes and birds of prey.

The earliest accounting of diamonds date back some 3000 years ago in India, where it was first mined. In the ancient language of Sanskrit, the word diamond is taken from vajra, meaning thunderbolt.

Diamonds and , began appearing again in history in the 13th century as part of royalty, sharing settings with gold and pearls. Instead of its popularity due to mythical powers, as diamonds were once also used in the Dark Ages as a medical aid. Diamonds were featured prominently in jewelry and royal regalia, especially by the 17th and 18th century

Because of the worth and value of this precious mineral, diamonds have also become a source of much conflict. Today, diamonds mines in Central and West Africa have come under attack of revolutionary groups.

These profits from the sales of these 'blood diamonds" have been used to finance their operations. But the common household might know more about diamonds from a advertisement rather than any news of conflict diamonds.

De Beers is a well-known diamond store and its "A diamond is forever" advertising campaign is one the most successful marketing campaigns in history.

And that is why the diamond has in history, also become a symbol of love. In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave an symbol of his affection to Mary of Burgundy, a that has started the tradition of wedding rings.

Throughout history, diamonds have been known for its excellent physical properties and even its ties to spiritual and seemingly mystical powers. Its value and worth have only increased during the centuries and will endure on, as diamonds are forever.