What Is the April Birthstone? Its History, Lore, & More Explained

The Invincible Stone

Birthstones exist across cultures and history. Often, they reflect important aspects of society, such as religion or customs. Many groups use these symbolic stones to reflect tastes, thoughts, and trends. Join us as we examine the nature of the April birthstone.

She who from April dates her years

Diamonds should wear, lest bitter tears

For vain repentance flow. This stone

Emblem of innocence is known.

-Traditional Birthstone Poem

Modern Birthstone

The word diamond comes from the Greek word adamas, also meaning "diamond." The first known use of the word diamond dates to the 15th century. As the hardest known material, it comes as no surprise to find that diamond is a symbol of protection, perseverance, wisdom, and enlightenment.

For many centuries, the only diamond-producing country was Ancient India. The cultural importance was great, and different colors bore associations with different castes.

• Brahmins, the priestly caste, could only own colorless diamonds.
• Vaisyas, who were landowners, could possess yellow diamonds.
• Kshatriyas, the warriors, would wear red diamonds, appropriately enough.
• Sudras, who are laborers, might own a gray diamond if very lucky.

Today, diamonds occur in many places, and some of the essential diamond sources include Africa, Canada, Australia, and Russia.

Since the early twentieth century, diamond has been the modern April birthstone. However, some records suggest that diamonds were an April birthstone as early as the 15th century.

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Historical Birthstone

Your Birthstone

Many believe birthstones bring us luck. They continue to be a great gift, and birthstones are a unique way to tell a story about yourself.