Why a Diamond? The Diamond Tradition

Have you ever wondered where the tradition of the diamond engagement ring came from?

"Two torches in one ring of burning fire. Two wills,
two hearts, two passions are bonded in marriage..."

- Inscription within the Sforza Marriage ring, Italy 1475

In the year 1477 was the first recorded account of the use of a diamond in an engagement ring. Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgandy with a gold ring set with a diamond and after 24 hrs of the proposal, was married to her.

A Diamond is nature’s hardest substance and has the unique ability to resist both fire and steel which is why it's very meaning has been derived from the Greek word Adamas, which means unconquerable or invincible. Representing such strength and power, a diamond epitomizes the definition of marriage. Throughout history, a diamond has been one of the most coveted gems. Great warriors and knights adorned them in the uncut form on their armor, while cut and polished diamonds appeared on the crowns of kings and queens through the ages.

In India, diamonds were coveted not only for their beauty, but also for their strength and magical powers. A diamond was believed to protect the wearer from snakes, fire, poison, illness, thieves, as well as all evil. Furthermore, as the gemstone for the zodiac sign, Aries, diamonds were also believed to provide strength of mind, everlasting love in marriage, and a means to ward off evil, poisons, and nightmares.

The Romans believed that a diamond worn against the skin of the left arm would provide bravery during a battle as well strength against their enemy.  "He who carries a diamond on the left side shall be hardy and manly; it will guard him from accidents to the limbs…"

In Chapter 28 of the Bible, Book of Exodus, reference was made to the breastplate of the Jewish high priest—"And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond." A diamond worn in the instance had been believed to have special powers to prove innocence or guilt. If the accused was guilty, the diamond grew dim, and if innocent, the stone shined as brilliant as ever! Hence, diamonds became associated with innocence, justice, faith, and strength. Early Christians also believed that a diamond was an antidote against both moral and physical evil.