Diamonds are often associated with birthstones that correspond to each month of the year. The diamond is the traditional birthstone for April, which means people born in this month often receive diamond jewelry as gifts. But what color diamond is specifically associated with April? The answer has roots in both history and meaning.
Diamonds come in a variety of colors beyond the traditional white diamond. While all diamonds are composed of carbon, the presence of trace elements and structural defects produce the different color varieties. The four main types according to color are white, yellow, brown, and fancy colored diamonds. The fancy colored diamonds get their hues from mineral impurities present during their formation, with some of the most popular colors being pink, blue, red, green, purple, orange, and black.
The History of Birthstones
The idea of birthstones originated as early as the first century. References to specific gemstones being able to bring good luck or have mystical powers depending on astrological signs dates all the way back to ancient Indian and Hebrew cultures. These early beliefs spread throughout Europe and beyond. By the 16th century, many had adopted the tradition of wearing and gifting birthstones, associating a different stone with each month and the supposed powers that came with it.
However, the birthstones we recognize today first formally appeared in a published list in Poland in 1815. This became the traditional and standard list used in the United States by 1912 with the founding of the Jewelry Industry Council. The list has gone through a few revisions since, most recently in 1952. On the modern and traditional birthstone chart, a diamond is still designated as the official gem for April.
Meaning Behind April’s Diamond
So why was the diamond chosen to represent April? The symbolic and mystical meaning behind the stone has a strong connection to the springtime month.
As the hardest natural substance on Earth, diamonds have an association with strength, durability, eternity, and courage. Their purity untarnished by any other elements is thought to represent and bring clarity, balance, and abundance. Diamonds similarly symbolize regeneration and new beginnings as they form deep within the Earth before rising to the surface.
April is a month of transition from winter to spring in many parts of the world. It ushers in the blossoming of flowers, the return of animals from migration, and the renewal of nature with longer, warmer days. The diamond’s properties of strength and bright untarnished essence parallel these themes. April is also commonly associated with showers and rain, which represent cleansing, refreshment, and fertility.
Beyond the symbolic connotations, April’s diamond birthstone was likely chosen for the fact that diamonds were plentiful during this time of year with ice beginning to thaw. The gemstones could be more easily discovered and mined during April than at the height of winter.
Types of Diamonds for April
While all diamonds are connected to the month of April, some specific colors and diamond varieties have an even stronger tie to the month for their symbolic significance:
Colorless/White Diamonds – The traditional diamonds associated with April are colorless or white, which represents the clarity and brightness of the spring season. These “ice” diamonds evoke winter’s thaw.
Yellow Diamonds – Yellow diamonds connect to April as the color of daffodils and forsythia bushes blooming in spring. They represent sunshine, vitality, and new growth.
Pink Diamonds – Pink diamonds reflect April’s cherry blossoms and flowering trees. The soft hue embodies romance, femininity, kindness, and affection.
Blue Diamonds – Blue diamonds complement April’s frequent rainy weather. The color exudes calmness, serenity, wisdom, and openness.
Green Diamonds – Green diamonds in shades of emerald tie to the renewal of vegetation in spring. The color signals health, prosperity, good luck, and generosity.
Most Popular Diamond Cuts for April
In addition to color, the cut of a diamond also contributes to its meaning and symbolism. Here are some of the most popular diamond cuts associated with the April birthstone:
Round Brilliant Cut – As the most common cut, the round brilliant diamond works for April birthstones because its symmetrical shape conveys balance and order. The facets radiate light for a joyful mood.
Princess Cut – The princess cut is a four-sided pyramidal shaped diamond designed to reflect light from within. This cut exudes springtime blossoming and illumination.
Emerald Cut – The emerald cut possesses wide, open facets resembling mirrors to highlight clarity. Its imagery connects to spring greens and bursting meadows.
Cushion Cut – The pillow-like shape and rounded corners of the cushion cut diamond convey a comforting, peaceful essence evoking April’s rain showers.
Oval Cut – The egg-like oval embodies new life, fertility, and budding potential – all April themes. Its elongated shape can give the illusion of greater size.
How to Style April Diamond Jewelry
April’s diamond birthstone can be worn and styled in many forms of jewelry. Here are some recommendations for wearing diamonds connected to April:
– Solitaire diamond rings to symbolize clarity and new beginnings. Opt for white, yellow, or pink diamonds.
– Diamond stud earrings for everyday wear. Choose round or princess cut stones.
– Diamond necklaces such as a solitaire pendant or diamond infinity knot for openness.
– Diamonds on bracelets like tennis bracelets suiting April’s springtime active energy.
– Diamond floral motif rings, earrings, necklaces, and pins to reflect April blooms.
– Vintage or antique diamond jewelry with delicate filigree evoking April showers.
– Mix diamond colors like blue and green together for an April garden representation.
– Diamonds paired with additional April birthstones of quartz or opal.
Where to Buy April Diamond Jewelry
Many jewelry stores sell birthstone jewelry including pieces featuring April’s diamonds. Here are some recommended retailers to browse and purchase April diamond birthstone jewelry:
| Retailer | Details |
|---|---|
| Blue Nile | Wide selection of certified diamonds for all budgets |
| Tiffany & Co. | Upscale and designer diamond jewelry |
| Kay Jewelers | Affordable brand-name diamond jewelry |
| Brilliant Earth | Ethical and conflict-free natural diamonds |
| Helzberg Diamonds | Large assortment of diamond jewelry |
Independent jewelers and artisans on sites like Etsy also offer unique handcrafted April diamond jewelry options. When purchasing diamonds, be sure to ask for a grading report from a gemological laboratory like GIA or AGS to evaluate the 4Cs of color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Reputable retailers will provide this documentation on request.
How to Care for April Diamond Jewelry
As the hardest gems, diamonds are overall very durable for everyday wear. However, some basic care practices will keep your April diamond jewelry safe and in peak condition:
– Store pieces separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Use a designated fabric-lined box or pouch.
– Avoid exposing diamonds to harsh chemicals like bleach, acid, or ammonia. These can potentially damage settings.
– Remove diamond jewelry before physical activities like exercise, cleaning, gardening etc.
– Clean diamonds once a month using warm water, a mild detergent, and soft brush. Rinse and pat dry.
– Consider annual professional cleanings by a jeweler for a deep cleaning and safety inspection.
– Take off diamond rings and bracelets when washing hands, showering, swimming or handling chemicals.
– Store diamond pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity extremes.
Following these tips will help you safely wear and enjoy your April diamond birthstone jewelry for many years to come! Talk to your jeweler if you have any specific questions or needs for your pieces.
Conclusion
April’s diamond is a timeless birthstone gift that offers enduring sparkle and meaning. Diamonds in white, yellow, pink, blue and green especially embody April’s springtime spirit of renewal, clarity, and bright new beginnings. Round brilliant, princess, emerald, cushion, and oval shaped diamonds are popular cuts for April, with solitaires and floral motifs being preferred settings. Whether purchasing an April diamond for yourself or a loved one celebrating their April birthday, this guide covers how to select a diamond birthstone jewelry piece that perfectly fits the April season. With some basic care, April’s diamond will maintain its shine as a beloved springtime gem.
