Many of you will be purchasing gifts this holiday season with diamonds. A few of you may even be on the hunt for the diamond [ring] for that very special gift. With all of your holiday season shopping in mind, here are a few things you may not have known about that sparkling bling you're about to buy.
pictured: "bride": Louisa Warwick | photo: Steve Sendor for Sophisticated Weddings Magazine
diamonds: Maddaloni Jewelers | location: Oheka Castle | makeup & hair: The Ambiance Salon
1. The Greek word for diamond means: invincible. The ancient Greeks (and Romans) believed that diamonds were tears cried by the gods or splinters from falling stars, and that Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds - perhaps the earliest association between diamonds and romantic love. Many believe this is why diamonds still to this day are a perfect symbol of love and dedication.
pictured: "bride": "Big Sky" star Janina Gavankar (from our 2015 cover shoot)
photo: Chris L. for Brett Matthews Gallery | diamonds: Greenwich St. Jewelers
location: Tribeca Rooftop
2. Diamonds are formed naturally from extreme temperatures and pressure beneath the Earth’s crust. Rough diamonds are brought to the Earth’s surface through volcanic activity. Diamonds are so special because they are known for their extreme hardness, unmatched brilliance, and rich sentimental value. Made of nearly 100% carbon atoms, diamonds are so durable that the only other mineral that can scratch a diamond's surface is another diamond.
pictured: "bride": Amanda Dubin (from our 2017 cover shoot)
photo: Chris L. for Brett Matthews Gallery | diamonds: London Jewelers
location: Bridal Reflections
3. The first known use of a diamond in an engagement ring dates back to 1477, when Archduke Maxmillian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a gold ring featuring an M spelled out in diamonds.
pictured: "bride": "Blue Bloods" star Vanessa Ray (from our 2016 cover shoot)
photo: Chris L. for Brett Matthews Gallery | diamonds: London Jewelers
location: Burden Kahn Mansions
4. Diamonds are nearly as old as the earth and are increasing in rarity as they take billions of years to form. The formation starts in the depths of the Earth. Very few diamonds survive the trip from the depths of the earth to the crust where they can be mined. No two diamonds are the same and carry their own unique properties such as internal inclusions and color.