Diamond - Birthstone for April
Diamond are the birthstone for April. The word 'diamond' comes from the Greek word ‘adamas’ meaning invincible. This referred to both the hardness of this mineral as well as, according to ancient myths, its supposed magic properties to protect against any poison or attack (or more likely because diamonds have toughness and stability against chemicals). It is also similar to the Latin verb ‘adamare’, to love passionately.
"The diamond giveth to a man that beareth it strength and virtue, and keepth him from grievance, meetings and temptations and from venom”
- Given from the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, London, 1513
“Diamonds have nourished man’s fantasies and are synonymous with power, not just human, but also power from non-human, divine forces”
- Pliny the Elder, Roman historian