6 Facts About Diamonds

1. Diamonds are a fascinating and highly coveted natural material. Being the hardest substance on Earth, diamonds are made up of carbon crystals that bond together through strong covalent bonds. The process of crystallization from magma helps form diamonds deep beneath the Earth, about 150 to 200 kilometers beneath the surface, where the high pressure and temperature create ideal conditions. 

 

 2. The rarity of diamonds demands extensive mining of Earth's crust, as about 250 tons of crust need to be processed for a single carat diamond. The word "diamond" is derived from the ancient Greek term "adamas," meaning "unconquerable." This provides a testament to the perceived symbolism and value of diamonds as powerful talismans for different cultures across several centuries. 

3. Diamonds were also used industrially because they could withstand abrasion, high pressure, and temperature. The diamond industry uses them for drilling, grinding, and cutting hard materials such as concrete, stone, and glass. The largest diamond in history is the Cullinan, weighing in at around 3,106 carats in South Africa. 4. It is considered to be one of the most valuable and sought-after gems on Earth today. Diamonds' symbolic significance, value, and unique properties make them a fascinating and coveted natural resource worldwide.

4. The word "diamond" comes from the Greek word "adamas," meaning "unconquerable." Diamonds have been used as talismans and symbolic objects in various cultures throughout the millennia, as they believed that diamonds bring luck, power, and energy. For example, the Romans used diamonds in battle as they believed that diamonds protect and bring victory, while the Hindus believed that diamonds cleanse negative energy.

5. Diamonds have also been used as industrial parts since they are extremely hard and resistant to abrasion. The diamond industry uses them for drilling, grinding, and cutting hard materials like concrete, stone, and glass. For example, every sapphire screen on an Apple smartphone is made using diamond tools. 

6. The largest diamond ever found is the Cullinan, weighing 3,106 carats. It was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and later divided among the British royal family. From the Cullinan, many beautiful diamonds were made, including the Czech Diamond Crown and the British Imperial State Crown. Cullinan is considered one of the most important diamonds in the world and is currently housed in the Tower of London.