Diamonds may have been discovered 3,000 years ago in Borneo and India, but three millennia are merely the blink of an eye in the life of these precious gemstones. Diamonds were formed under high pressure and heat many millions of years ago over a hundred miles beneath the earth. Eventually, volcanic eruptions propelled them to the surface. Until 1871, their unique properties were equated with the power and prestige of the kings, maharajas, and emperors who owned them. The discovery of diamonds in South Africa's Kimberley mines brought availability to other diamond lovers, not just the impossibly rich. Today, 70 percent of all couples that are marrying buy diamond engagement rings. And, more women than ever are buying diamonds for themselves.

It is estimated that as little as 500 tons of diamond have ever been mined in recorded history, and only about 50% are judged gem quality. If you are thinking about purchasing a diamond, it is in your best interest to enlist the help of someone you can trust to differentiate between a natural stone and an imitation one, and to counsel you on the four Cs that determine diamond quality and value (cut, color, clarity, carat weight). This is exactly what we do at DAVID'S JEWELRY.

Another interesting note is that over the past few years, the public has finally come to better appreciate the beauty of colored diamonds.