Ancient History
As early as the fourth century BCE, diamonds were initially extracted from the earth in India. Indian diamonds, which were frequently worn by royalty and employed in religious icons, were valued for their brilliance and thought to possess supernatural powers.
Diamonds are mentioned and their varieties and commercial value are categorized in the Sanskrit text Arthashastra (c. 300 BCE).
Expansion to Different Continents
Diamonds traveled to China, the Middle East, and ultimately Europe via trade routes such as the Silk Road.
In addition to being worn as jewels, diamonds were also thought to have protective and therapeutic qualities by Europe’s elite by the Middle Ages.
Fresh Findings
Brazil became the world’s top source of diamonds until the 19th century after significant deposits were discovered there in the 1720s.
1867: Diamond rushes and extensive diamond mining began after diamonds were discovered in South Africa close to the Orange River.
Globalization and Industrialization
De Beers Consolidated Mines was established in 1888 and, via mining, marketing, and distribution, came to control the world’s supply of diamonds, frequently creating artificial scarcity.
When De Beers introduced the well-known advertising slogan “A Diamond is Forever” in 1947, diamonds were ingrained in engagement culture all across the world.
Contemporary Issues & Morality
When “conflict diamonds” or blood diamonds were used to finance wars in Africa in the late 20th century, it sparked outrage around the world.
To certify diamonds as conflict-free, the Kimberley Process was created in 2003.
Today
Because lab-grown diamonds are inexpensive, produced ethically, and have the same physical characteristics as real diamonds, they are becoming more and more popular.
Today, prominent diamond-producing nations include Botswana, Canada, and Russia.