Diamond & Discovery
The Legend of a Stone: The Fascinating History of the Diamond
The surprising story of the diamond, from the depths of the Earth to royal jewels.
19 October 2026 · 4 min read · Erzurum Kuyumcusu Editorial
Where does a diamond’s journey begin?
Not inside a jewellery shop window.
The story of most natural diamonds begins roughly 140–200 kilometres below the Earth’s surface, under extraordinary conditions of heat and pressure.
These crystals, formed over millions — even billions — of years, are carried to the surface by certain volcanic processes.
Just imagine…
The tiny stone on your finger may be far older than human history itself.
The first diamonds
Historically, one of the most important early sources of diamonds was India.
For centuries, diamonds attracted the interest of rulers and nobles because of their rarity, hardness and beauty.
Over time, cutting and polishing techniques developed. The diamond’s ability to reflect light began to be revealed in ever more impressive ways.
How did it become a symbol of love?
In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria’s gift of a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy is one of the famous examples in the history of diamond engagement rings.
However, diamond rings became a romantic tradition among the wider public much later.
In particular, the advertising campaigns of the 20th century strongly associated the diamond with the idea of lasting love.
The four qualities that make a diamond valuable
In the jewellery world, diamonds are generally evaluated with the 4C system:
• Carat: the weight of the stone.
• Cut: the quality of the cut.
• Color: the colour grade.
• Clarity: the clarity grade.
A diamond’s beauty is not determined by size alone. The quality of the cut, in particular, plays a very important role in its light performance.
Is every diamond unique?
The formation history and internal characteristics of natural diamonds can differ from one another.
Even if two stones have the same carat weight, their appearance and value can vary because their cuts, colours and clarities differ.
That is why, when choosing a diamond, one should not focus only on the carat weight.
A note from Erzurum Kuyumcusu
A diamond’s light may impress at first sight.
But what truly makes it precious is sometimes the moment it represents.
A marriage proposal, a special anniversary, or a meaningful gift one gives to oneself…
We believe not only in the beauty of jewellery, but in the stories it carries.
Because some memories never lose their light.
