“The greatest value among the objects of human property, not only among precious stones, is due to the diamond, for a long time known only to kings and even to very few of these.”
― Pliny the Elder
In the cold and dark November evenings what can better shine and cheer than the diamonds. The story of the diamond book by Tamara Sturtz-Filby is one of my latest treasure I found during Milan Jewelery Week.
The fisrt chapter is dedicated to the history of the diamond and inspired me to the further search of some old believes.
Beside the great value, diamonds are also covered with some great mythology that were used to explain how diamonds are created in a magical way.
The term "diamond" originates from the Greek word "adamas," meaning "invincible" or "indestructible," reflecting the extraordinary hardness of this gem, which surpasses all other minerals.
Ancient Greeks considered diamonds as fragments of fallen stars, while the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder believed they were formed by lightning strikes.
In Roman mythology, diamonds were associated with Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. Legend has it that Cupid's arrows were tipped with diamonds, representing the power of love. Greek mythology portrayed diamonds as divine weapons, with Hades, the god of the underworld, wearing a diamond helmet to render himself invisible.
Egyptians believed in the healing properties of diamonds and used them for medicinal purposes. Furthermore, they associated diamonds with the sun due to their reflective qualities. Early Hindu mythology attributed diamonds to lightning striking rocks, claiming that the god of thunder, Indra, possessed a diamond that bestowed invincibility.
During the medieval period, diamonds were scarce and expensive, reserved for the wealthy elite. They were believed to possess numerous healing properties, warding off evil spirits and curing ailments. The Renaissance period further elevated diamonds' significance, associating them with prestige and wealth. Nobles and royalty often adorned themselves with diamond jewelry, and they became symbolic of love and commitment as engagement rings gained popularity.
Today, diamonds remain highly regarded for their beauty, durability, and value, maintaining their special status in human culture. While modern science has unraveled the secrets of diamonds, the enduring influence of ancient beliefs and traditions surrounding these gemstones persists. In closing, the enduring beliefs and customs surrounding diamonds across civilizations attest to their timeless beauty and rarity. Diamonds' association with gods and goddesses, as well as their mythical and magical attributes, have contributed to their revered status as symbols of wealth and beauty throughout history.
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