Diamonds have been timeless and cherished around the world long before they were named as the birthstone for April. At Francarlo, we offer diamond jewellery for all occasions. Let us create your dream piece of diamond earrings or a diamond ring for that special somebody in your life.
History and Origin of the Diamond
Diamonds were originally gathered from the rivers and streams in India, and they have been traded around the world from as early as 4 BC. Diamonds were favoured by the wealthy and royalty of the
world. They were brought to medieval markets in Venice by caravans carrying exotic merchandise from India and became fashionable accessories for the European elite by the 1400s.
Today, diamonds are the most popular choice of stone used in engagement ring, but the very first recorded one was given by Austria’s Archduke Maximillian when he proposed to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. By the 1700s, diamond supplies in India were on the decline and Brazil became a new important source of the gemstone, dominating the diamond market for over a century.
Since then, diamonds have become the most popular choice for engagement rings as the stone is also considered to be the symbol of affection and love. Diamond engagement rings did not become popular around the world until the 1940s. Today, they are the top choice along with deep blue stones like tanzanite rings.
The 4 C’s of Diamonds:
Our range of diamonds and their value is determined by the four C’s, which are Carat, Colour, Clarity and Cut.
1. Carat
This is the measurement unit used when weighing the diamond. One carat equals 0.2g, and the weight of a diamond has a significant impact on its worth.
2. Colour
The colour of a diamond is graded from D-Z, with truly colourless at D, E and F the highest quality. G, H, I and J are awarded to diamonds that are almost colourless, while anything further down the scale will have obvious hints of colour. One exception to this rule is rare coloured diamonds in pink, blue, green, orange and yellow that are very valuable.
3. Clarity
Clarity is determined by the number, type, and size of any flaws found in a diamond.
4. Cut
The cut of a diamond impacts its ability to reflect the light, therefore has a significant influence on a diamond’s worth. It is the one factor that is man-made rather than natural.
Our own workshop and goldsmiths love to create your dream pieces for any occasion. If you’re looking for the perfect diamond jewellery, we’d love to help. Visit us in-store, shop online, book an online video consultation or call and Whats App us on 083 201 0711
