April's Birthstone - Diamond

Why is diamond the April birthstone?
Those born in April are thought to be kind, caring and successful in work and love, hence the association with diamond jewellery - the stone of love. Strength is also a key component - in fact, the name diamond actually derives from the Greek word adamas which mean ‘invincible’ or ‘unbreakable’. The name refers to the unbeatable hardness of the stone, but also - according to legend - the magical protective powers of diamonds. Over the years, the diamond birthstone has been said to act as an antidote to poison and protection against the Plague. Not a bad one to have as a birthstone, then.
As well as being the April birthstone, diamond jewellery is the gift of choice for 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries. In fact, the Romans believed Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds for everlasting love. Awww.
What gift should I choose for an April birthstone?
There’s lots to choose from when it comes to diamond gifts here at Astley Clarke. From tiny diamond-encrusted Huggie hoops for those who like a subtle, stylish look to statement pieces like the Icon Diamond ring, there’s lots to choose from when it comes to the April birthstone. Our new April Birthstone Locket Charm is delicate, meaningful and can be engraved and personalised with two photos for a gorgeous, affordable gift.
What do diamonds look like?
Back when diamonds were first discovered in India some 2500 years ago, they looked very different to the diamond jewellery we know today. The ‘brilliance’ or incredible burst of rainbow light that we associate with diamonds wasn’t actually discovered until the 20th Century with the development of the ‘brilliant cut’.
Diamonds are generally colourless but they do exist in many other colours - red being the rarest.
Where do diamonds come from?
Diamonds are formed deep down in the earth (up to 100 miles below ground) under extreme heat and pressure. Next, they’re ejected violently upwards close to the earth’s surface to be unearthed by man or nature. This tough journey not only makes it the world’s hardest natural substance but also spawned a plethora of quotes around good things being formed under pressure.
Diamonds were first discovered in India 2500 years ago but South Africa has since become the biggest source for diamonds.


What are birthstones?
Each month of the year is associated with a stone with different properties. The first mention of birthstones comes from way back in the Book of Exodus. Stones were first associated with the signs of the Zodiac and then months of the year.
Way back when, it was thought that wearing each month’s stone during that month would bring specific properties to the wearer. Although we like this theory (any excuse to wear more jewellery) in modern times people generally wear their own birthstone throughout the year.
When was the diamond engagement ring invented?
It was the Romans who came up with the concept of betrothal or ‘truth’ rings worn on the third finger of the left hand where they believed the ‘Vein of Love’ ran straight to the heart. These rings weren’t reserved for romantic love - they were often given as a sign of friendship.
However, it wasn’t until 1477 when the first diamond engagement ring was presented by Archduke Maximilian of Austria when he proposed marriage to Mary of Burgundy. It was a thin gold ring with flat pieces of diamonds used to form the letter ‘M’. It seems even then, we loved a bit of personalisation.
Give me some diamond facts
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man - in fact, they are 58 times harder than the next closest substance. Did you know the only thing that can scratch a diamond is another diamond?
The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds
In the realm of fine jewellery, diamonds have always held a special place. Their timeless beauty, unmatched brilliance, and enduring symbolism have made them a cherished possession for centuries. However, the traditional process of mining diamonds comes with ethical and environmental concerns. In recent years, a groundbreaking alternative has emerged – lab-grown diamonds. These man-made marvels offer all the qualities of natural diamonds while alleviating many of the ethical and environmental issues associated with traditional diamond mining.
Lab-grown diamonds are created through advanced technological processes that replicate the natural conditions in which diamonds form beneath the Earth's surface. Scientists are able to produce diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to those found in nature. This breakthrough in diamond production has paved the way for a new era in the jewellery industry. One of the most significant advantages of lab-grown diamonds is their ethical integrity. Lab-grown diamonds are entirely conflict-free and produced in controlled environments, ensuring that no human rights abuses or environmental damage are associated with their creation. Equally, by opting for lab-grown diamonds, consumers can minimise their ecological footprint and support more sustainable practices in the jewellery industry.
Meaningful Diamonds
Our diamond collection features lots of meaningful talisman so you can tell your unique story.


How do I wear diamonds?
Colourless and dazzling, diamonds go with everything. No matter your style, there’s a diamond piece to suit you. For those who like something subtle and stylish, try our tiny diamond-encrusted Huggie hoops or Flash Interstellar Diamond Ring. Or if ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend’ is their favourite song, pick a statement piece like the statement Comet Diamond ring or Mini Icon Aura Diamond Drop Earrings, there’s lots to choose from when it comes to the April birthstone.
Our diamond lockets are also a beautiful gift, fully engraveable and with a photo added. Want more diamond gifting inspo?


All of our diamonds here at Astley Clarke adhere to the Kimberley process to ensure conflict-free stones. Find all you need to know about buying diamonds - as well as more about the Kimberley process - right here in our Diamond Buying Guide.