But diamonds are a girl's best friend! I'm certainly not going to argue with Marilyn on this one. However, diamonds have not always been the gem of choice among us ladies. In fact, I love most anything shiny.
So gather round and take notes, boys. Here's the rundown on the glittering rocks that historically have set girls' hearts a-flutter.
Agate was used by the ancient Greeks in jewelry as early as 3000 BC. It's named for the Achates River, where it was officially discovered in the 3rd or 4th century BC.
Alexandrite was discovered in 1834 in Russia. It was named for Czar Alexander II. I actually feel better about it being June's birthstone. It's quite rare; it appears red in candlelight, yellow or pink in daylight, and blue-green in fluorescent light.
Aquamarine was first widely mined in 1811, but it was used by the Greeks as early as the fifth or fourth century BC. Later, sailors and pirates carried aquamarine stones to ensure safe passage.
The word 'diamond' comes from the Greek word for 'unbreakable.' However, they were first recognized and valued by ancient Indians, definitely 3000 years ago, and likely as many as 6000 years ago. However, they didn't really grow in popularity until the 19th century.
Emerald comes from the Latin word 'esmaralda' or 'green gem.' It was used in ancient Egypt 4000 years ago.
Moonstone comes from Sri Lanka and has been used for thousands of years.
Garnet comes from the Middle English word "gernet" which meant dark red. It also could come from the Latin "granatum," grain, in reference to the pomegranate, whose seeds do resemble garnets. Garnets have been used since the Late Roman Empire. However, it was the so-called "barbarians," especially the Anglo-Saxons, whose use of garnets has achieved lasting fame. They would inlay the stones in gold, using the technique known as cloisonné.
Here's part one. Part two will come later. (Hopefully sooner, actually!)
Always,
Callie
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