Diamond Myths vs. Facts
March 31, 2009
The Premier Mine
It’s always fun to look at myths, urban legends and then uncover the truth behind it all. I still think my favorite is the one with cell phones and pumping gas. I watched Mythbusters and now feel a lot better that if I am chatting on the phone while pumping gas that I won’t blow myself up. In fact, on this program they were trying to blow up all kinds of things. It was definitely a different kind of program but interesting.
Well, in the world of diamonds and diamond jewelry their is quite a bit of confusion as to what is truth and what is myth. Diamond’s have captured our imagination through film, poetry and song. Each lending something wonderful to the mystique of diamond lore. So for today’s post I thought it might be fun to explore some fun trivia pieces.
So, did you know…
The world’s largest diamond was found in the Premier Diamond mine near Johannesburg, South Africa. Actually both of the world’s 2 largest diamonds came from this diamond mine. The Cullinan Diamond aka the Great Star of Africa, which weighs a whopping 530.2 carats or 106.40 grams and then the Golden Jubilee Diamond which weighs in at modest 545.37 carats or 109.13 grams. Today, both of these diamonds form part of the British Crown Jewels and Thai Crown Jewels.
The all time high price for a piece of diamond jewelry was in 1995 for 16.5 million dollars sold by Sotheby’s in Geneva. To you a little perspective, most diamonds sold in the U.S. for engagement rings cost around $3,000.
The most popular diamond cut is a round brilliant. This cut is both mathematically and empirically perfect. We have our computer age to thank for this modern marvel.
Historical Diamond Cuts
The oldest diamond cut is the point cut and this dates to around the 14th century.
Diamonds are roughly 3.4 billion years old!
Diamonds were thought to have special powers. Yup, in ancient times, they believed that the wearer would receive strength, invincibility and courage.
Diamonds can be scratched but only by another diamond.
Diamonds do break so, choosing to hit them with a hammer or any other implement is not a good idea.
Diamonds do not like to work out, remember they are old ladies.
Now, you know a little more about the diamond the sits in your diamond engagement ring, hopefully this was a bit informative and fun for you. If you’d like more information regarding diamonds or engagement rings, do not hesitate to contact us (480-656-0652).
