History of Diamonds
Main Index
"Diamond" is derived from the Greek word adamao, transliterated as "adamao," "I tame" or "I subdue." "Adamas" may have previously referred to the next hardest mineral, corundum; the gem variety is sapphire, or to something else altogether. The adjective "adamas" was used to describe the hardest substance known, and eventually became synonymous with diamond.
Today diamond symbolizes prosperity, sturdiness, status, and matchless quality. Conversely during different eras and cultures, diamond has also been associated with invulnerability, lightning, magic, healing, protection, and poisoning. The word diamond evolved with history and different associations of people and cultures with diamonds. We also need to know the history of the words that were associated with the word Diamond.
Diamonds, popular for over 3000 years, were probably first found in India as loose stones. They were related to the sand and gravel of riverbeds. For centuries they were thought to posses paranormal powers, because of their hardness and luster, and were used in their raw form, uncut, as sacred objects or important treasures of state by the religious and royalty of the day. Being regarded as lucky charms, it was thought that they would lose their powers if they were cut or chipped in any way.
Till the 11th century that diamonds were first worn, in their raw form, as decorative ornaments. However in the 13th century, with the use of diamonds in jewelry, the theory gained favor that a diamond's appearance could be enhanced, by grinding and polishing along the four octahedral faces of the rough crystal. This was achieved by polishing with diamond dust at angles varying slightly from those of the original octahedral faces to form a point cut. Point cuts were seen from the Middle Ages until the Renaissance period.
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