Birthstones of April:
The Diamond
As if April babies didn't have enough celebrate--being born into the gentle sun and flowering
of spring
and all--they're also lucky
enough to lay claim to the most valuable of birthstones, the diamond. Known for
its crystal-clear glitter and unbeatable strength, this most special of
birthstones, April's diamond, is not just a
girl's best friend--it's also a symbol of love and commitment, as well as the
ultimate luxury.
Although clear diamonds are most commonly worn
in April birthstone jewelry,
these precious gems can actually come in a range of colors. While J-Lo
made pink diamonds infamous, there are also red, yellow (the most commonly
produced), green, blue, and even black-tinged diamonds, some of which are more
valuable than others. Formed via volcanic action, it should be no surprise
that diamonds--the queens of birthstones--bring out the inner fire and glamour of
April-born women.
As birthstones go, diamonds are
incredibly versatile and can look stunning alone or in combination with a range
of other gemstones such as rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and a range of topazes.
And because diamonds are so hard (ranking a perfect 10 on the hardness scale,
higher than any other birthstone!), they're durable enough to handle any
setting. From right hand rings (which we love) to earrings, pendants,
tennis bracelets, and even bellybutton jewelry, there's virtually no place
April's gem doesn't draw attention.
Buying Diamond Birthstones for April Babies
When you're buying diamond birthstones, be sure to check for the
four Cs, which include cut, color, clarity, and carat. While you can find
diamonds inexpensively, you do get what you pay for. (The same rule goes for all
birthstones of all months, not just April.) Cheap diamonds often
lack clarity (which lends the diamond its trademark sparkle) and the color will
not be entirely clear; yellowish tones are often common in less expensive
diamond birthstones.
April is a time of spring cleaning, and the
birthstones aren't any different. To care for your diamond birthstone jewelry,
simply soak the item in ammonia (window cleaner will usually do the trick) every
week or so. Abrasive cleaners and chlorine-laced bleach are no-nos,
though, so spare your diamonds the abuse. Beyond that, diamonds themselves don't
take much maintenance; it's the setting that often needs attention or repair.
April babies, rejoice! Surround yourself
with one of the most beautiful birthstones, the diamond, and revel in the fact
that anyone fortunate enough to have been born in the time of the world's most
treasured birthstone must truly be fabulous!