The timeless charm of diamond is intertwined with the lore that surrounds the gem. Over the centuries, diamond was thought to be an antidote to poison and provide protection against the plague. Some believed that the stone had healing powers and signified longevity, strength, beauty and happiness. A symbol of clarity and strength, diamond is so strong that the Greek called it ‘adamas,’ which means ‘invincible’ or ‘unbreakable.’
Besides its place in the birthstone calendar, diamonds are the stone of choice for engagement rings. Or for that matter, any special celebration…
Delve into history and you discover that the world’s love of diamonds began in India. Historians observe that India traded in diamonds as early as the fourth century BC. Gradually, diamonds from India found their way, along with other exotic merchandise, to Western Europe and Venice’s medieval markets. By the 1400s, diamonds became coveted fashionable accessories for Europe’s nobility.
What makes a diamond so extraordinary? The answer lies in the story of its origin. Diamond forms under high temperature and pressure conditions that exist only about 100 miles beneath the earth’s surface. Diamond is the only gem made of a single element: it is typically about 99.95 percent carbon; the other 0.05 percent can include one or more trace elements.
“Sparkling with an internal fire all its own, the diamond is one of the world’s most sought-after and adored gems.” According to the authoritative Gemological Institute of America (GIA), “we often think of a diamond’s cut as shape (round, heart, oval, marquise, pear), but what diamond cut actually does mean how well a diamond’s facets interact with light.” Innate artistry is required to envision the best cut for a diamond; one that reflects in the gem’s beauty and value – “proportions, symmetry and polish deliver the magnificent return of light only possible in a diamond.”
If you need something special to shine in, browse our edit of statement high jewellery encrusted with diamonds.
1. Boodles
Begin Spring on a new note! The New Beginnings platinum bracelet, from The Secret Garden collection by Boodles, features marquise and brilliant-cut diamonds. Evocative of snowdrops, the marquise diamonds shimmer like bright dew.
2. Boucheron
To convey the infinite lightness of dandelion flowers, Boucheron perfected a new type of trembler using titanium threads no thicker than a hair, whose spring effect creates natural movement. Interpreted figuratively, the dandelion collier winds gracefully around the neck, and its diamond seeds quiver with the slightest gesture. The Avant Le Frisson necklace from the maison’s Contemplation collection is pavéd with diamonds and set in white gold and titanium.
3. Cartier
This majestic elephant ring pavéd with diamonds, from Cartier’s Magnitude collection, is a fabulous conversation starter. The magnificent design says it all.
4. David Morris
The transformation of a mysterious cocoon to a beautiful butterfly is echoed throughout the design of the Chrysalis necklace from David Morris. The fancy pink diamonds used in the necklace from the Electric Geometry collection are reminiscent of blossoming flora, their extraordinary intensity of colour amplified by the brilliance of white diamonds.
5. Van Cleef & Arpels
The cosmos reveals its poetic character in Van Cleef & Arpels’ thematic collection titled Sous Les Étoiles (heavenly dreams). The creations in the collection offer a striking vision of the universe such as the Univers diamond necklace in white gold with its detachable clip.
6. Fawaz Gruosi
As is usual with the designer, complex designs are often presented in the most simplistic, natural way. Stylised diamond swirls shape up Fawaz Gruosi’s cocktail ring made in white gold and set with brilliant-cut white diamonds.
7. William Goldberg
Create an ear party with the glamorous Eros Chandelier Earrings in ASHOKA® Diamond by William Goldberg. Shake, shimmer, shine.
8. Neha Dani
Stunning to wear alone or layer, Neha Dani’s white gold Alissa leaf bangle wraps snugly around the wrist. The Alissa bangle is accented with a pear-shaped, rose-cut diamond and round-cut diamonds along the vein of the textured gold leaf.
9. Graff Diamonds
Inspired by Laurence Graff’s long-standing love of modern art and, in particular, the American artist Cy Twombly, this necklace mirrors the flow of paint on canvas, creating loops of diamonds. The innovative, wonderous design has been flawlessly executed.
10. Messika Paris
Messika by Kate Moss High Jewellery Collection sees sensual pieces of jewellery in which diamonds are transformed into a treasured tattoo. The Spirited Wind Earrings from the collection is just what you need to let your spirit soar.
11. Hemmerle
Inspired by contemporary art, the tension set diamonds in concentric circles of blackened silver and white gold by Hemmerle takes these earrings to dizzying new heights.
12. Chaumet
The Joséphine Valse Impériale necklace in white gold, set with pear-shaped diamonds and brilliant-cut diamonds embodies the airy dance of diamonds. Chaumet’s new JoseÌphine collection is inspired by Empress JoseÌphine’s sovereign allure.
13. De Beers
Inspired by remote and remarkable landscapes, Reflections of Nature High Jewellery Collection by De Beers celebrates nature’s treasures: diamonds. The Namib Wonder necklace features a rippling pattern, echoing the undulating dunes of Nambia. Round brilliant pavé conveys the texture of sand, while rough diamonds express the desert’s magic and mystery. Yellow and white diamonds, set in yellow and white gold, reflect the dramatic desert hues.
