The birthstones for the month of April are diamond and opal. Both these gemstones are considered lucky for people born in April. While diamonds are associated with purity and strength, opals are known for their colorful iridescence and symbolize hope and healing. Understanding the key differences between these two April birthstones can help those with an April birthday pick the one that resonates most with them.
Diamond, the Traditional April Birthstone
Diamond has traditionally been the sole birthstone associated with April for over a century. The diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth and enduring symbol of commitment. Here are some key facts about the diamond as an April birthstone:
- Diamonds have been prized for their brilliance and strength for centuries. They were first mined in India over 2,500 years ago.
- Ancient Greeks believed diamonds were splinters of fallen stars and Romans saw them as symbols of courage and invincibility.
- Diamonds are made of a single element – carbon. Pure diamond is the hardest naturally occurring material known. Diamonds form deep in the Earth’s mantle under intense heat and pressure.
- Diamonds are valued by the “four Cs” – carat, cut, clarity and color. A diamond’s sparkle comes from its faceting and high refractive index.
- Colorless or white diamonds are generally most prized in jewelry for their brilliance and fire. Other colored diamonds like pink, blue and yellow also exist.
- Large diamonds are exceptionally rare. It takes 1-3 billion years for a diamond to form and make it to the Earth’s surface.
- Diamonds symbolize purity, strength and commitment. They are given as tokens of love and worn in engagement and wedding rings.
- Atomic number 6 on the periodic table, the diamond is the traditional 60th anniversary gemstone.
Diamonds make meaningful April birthstone gifts as they are associated with strength of character, determination and everlasting love. Diamonds are precious and timeless adornments that represent fidelity and courage.
Opal, the Modern April Birthstone
While diamond has historical ties to April, opal was officially designated as an additional birthstone for April in 1952 by the American National Association of Jewelers. Opals are unique and stunning gemstones that have gained popularity:
- Opals range in color from white, gray and black to fiery shades of red, orange and yellow. Their iridescent play-of-color is mesmerizing.
- The name opal comes from the Roman “opalus” and Sanskrit “upala” meaning precious stone. The Greek word meant “to see a change in color.”
- 95-97% of the world’s opals come from Australia where they are the national gemstone. Opals also form in other regions like Brazil and Mexico.
- Opals are made of silica gel with 5-10% water. The water causes the refractive color play. Opals have relatively soft hardness of 5.5-6.5.
- There are many varieties of opal:
- Precious opal displays flashes of color
- Fire opal is transparent to translucent with orange to red color
- Black opal has a dark body tone that contrasts with the color play
- Some opals exhibit a cat’s eye effect or change colors in different light.
- Opals symbolize hope, healing, innocence and purity. They are given as 14th wedding anniversary gifts.
Opals are unique and affordable birthstones for April. Their rainbow of colors and motifs of hope and innocence make them fitting April birthstones alongside the diamond.
April Birthstone Colors
The April birthstones of diamond and opal showcase a beautiful range of colors:
- Diamond: Colorless and various tints like yellow, blue, pink, brown, champagne, cognac
- Opal: White, black, fiery reds/oranges/yellows, blue, pink, olive, green
The fiery flashes of color in opals contrast beautifully with the prismatic white light of diamonds. Diamond and opal complement each other when worn in jewelry.
Shopping Tips for April Birthstones
Here are some tips for buying diamond and opal April birthstone jewelry:
- Diamonds: Focus on cut, clarity and color for best brilliance. Look for certification from GIA or AGS.
- Opals: Look for solid opal with good play-of-color. Doublet or triplet opals offer affordability and durability.
- Settings: Choose protective settings like bezels for softer opal. Prongs can showcase diamonds.
- Budget: Determine price range and look for best value at that level. Diamonds offer enduring investment.
- Styles: Consider earrings, pendants, rings to match the wearer’s personality. Look for designing allowing both stones.
- Reputable sellers: Look for quality jewelry from reputable brands and retailers.
With knowledge of the characteristics, symbolism and value of these stones, you can find the perfect April diamond or opal birthstone gift.
Notable People with April Birthdays
Here are some remarkable individuals born in April along with their birthstone choices:
| Person | Birthday | Birthstone(s) Worn |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth II | April 21 | Diamonds |
| William Shakespeare | April 23 | Unknown |
| Johannes Brahms | April 7 | Unknown |
| Marlon Brando | April 3 | Unknown |
| Emma Watson | April 15 | Opal and Diamond |
| Akon | April 16 | Diamonds |
| Varun Dhawan | April 24 | Unknown |
Queen Elizabeth II is famous for her stunning diamond jewelry collection. Emma Watson and Akon are two modern celebrities that have been seen wearing both diamond and opal. Shakespeare, Brahms and Brando’s birthstone choices remain a mystery.
Conclusion
While the diamond has traditionally been linked to those born in April, the opal’s designation in 1952 gives April babies a choice between two beautiful birthstones. Diamonds represent enduring clarity and strength while opals embody faith and optimism. April babies are lucky to have not just one but two exquisite birthstone options: diamond and opal.
