Busting diamond myths and legends

The word diamond comes from the Greek word adamus, meaning unconquerable. Appropriately so, diamonds are the most coveted and sought-after gemstones around the world. That's why when you are choosing to propose to your sweetheart, a custom engagement ring is one of the most important components of the event. Why not learn a bit of diamond history, myth and legend to impress your bride-to-be?

Early history

It's very unclear as to when diamonds were first discovered, but it's pretty apparent that they have been around for thousands of years. In the fourth century BC, Indian Sanskrit texts indicated that trading with diamonds was common. In fact, the first emperor of India wrote of the rising value of taxes that come from mining Vajra, which was described as a tough stone that could only be scratched by another stone of its kind.

In the 18th century BC, Greco-Roman texts wrote of the stone adamas, which was referred to as the most precious stone of all, one that offers strength and good fortune. The legend has it that Chronos turned a young boy into the stone called Adamas, and he reinforced love in marriage, kept ghosts away and banished terrible spirits of the night.

A judge of innocence

One legend cited that a Jewish priest used diamonds to determine whether someone was guilty or innocent. A diamond would be presented to the individual. If it looked dull, the person would be deemed guilty, but if it sparkled, the individual would be considered innocent.

Fragments of beauty

Romans and Greeks believed many things about diamonds, and most of them were that diamonds were simply remnants of something greater. One of the beliefs was that diamonds were splinters or pieces of falling stars that had broken off, while others believed that diamonds were God's tears. Roman literature states that diamonds were simply the tip of Cupid's arrow. At a time they were believed to be celestial spirits, even. The Hindus believed that diamonds were created by lightning, and some believed that they attracted lightning.

Healing agent

The diamond was believed to be a healing agent for a number of different ailments, including memory loss, depression, tiredness, mental illness, skin issues, nightmares and heart ailments. It was considered a miracle stone by many in ancient times.