It takes approximately 250 tons of ore to be mined and processed to produce a one carat diamond of gem quality.

Diamonds are the hardest and most imperishable of all precious stones. The word "Diamond" comes from the Greek word Adamas, meaning "Unconquerable".

A diamond is a transparent gem made of carbon, one of the earth's most common elements. The formation of diamonds began very early in the earth's history, the condensation of solid matter into a sphere caused the centre of the planet to become subjected to incredible extremes of temperatures and these conditions caused deposits of carbon to begin to crystalise deep in the earth. As the earth's surface cooled, volcanic activity forced steams of magna (liquid rock) to the surface, carrying with it the diamond bearing rock that encased the diamonds in vertical volcanic "Pipes".

Not all diamonds are found where they first came to the surface. Subsequent erosion of the top soil over millions of years, washed some of the diamonds into streams and rivers and sometimes as far as the sea. it is highly probable that they were first discovered in areas such as these, far away from the original location.

The first river bed (Alluvial) diamonds were discovered in India, around 800 BC. The volcanic sources of these diamonds were never discovered but the "Alluvial" deposits were rich enough to supply most of the world's diamonds until the 18th Century.

The first recorded history of the diamond dates back approximately 3000 years to India where it is thought that diamonds were first valued for their ability to retract light. The diamond was also used for decorative purposes and as a talisman to ward off evil or provide protection in battle.

The earliest record of diamond polishing was again in India, dating from the 14th Century, the earliest reference to diamond cutting dates back to 1550 in Antwerp, the most important diamond centre of the period, where a Diamond Cutters Guild was to be established.

Today 90% of all diamond jewellery manufactured is set with diamonds mined in Africa, the remaining 10% is set with stones mined in Australia, South Africa, Canada and Russia.

Today diamonds are still a source of fascination with the majority of diamonds purchased as a form of celebration, the most obvious being love and commitment.

In 1477 the Arch Duke Maximillian of Austria, gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgandy thus starting the tradition of the diamond engagement ring. the Egyptians believed that a vein of love (The Vena Amoris) ran directly from the heart to the top of the third finger on the left hand, this being the engagement finger.

Beside the emotional reasons for buying diamonds, such as engagement, anniversaries, births etc, many customers are buying diamonds to reward themselves for their personal achievements.

Many customers are now also purchasing diamonds as an investment due to the significant increase in value. Some unofficial reports suggest that the base cost price of specific diamonds have increased by 35% in the last three years alone. However, we would add that a diamond is only an investment if it is purchased at the right price.

Previously owned diamond set jewellery is far the best value for money as it can be purchased tax free. * See out section on Tax Free Jewellery for more information.