They’re beautiful, rare, and last a lifetime. As girl’s best friend, it might appear that we’ve learned all we can about these beauties. However, there’s more to diamonds than meets the eye. Here are 5 facts you may not have known about diamonds:

5. DeBeers is forever – Before 1990, DeBeers owned 90% of the diamond market. As a result, you didn’t even have to buy a diamond from DeBeers to earn them your business.

4. The word diamond translates to literally mean “indestructible.”

3. In the 13^th century, Louis IV of France initiated a law that mandated only Royalty could wear diamonds. In other words, you had to be a princess to don a diamond.

2. The first diamond engagement ring ever recorded was given to Mary of Burgundy by the Archduke Maximilian of Hamburg in 1477.

1. In history, the strictly religious Puritans did not believe in engagement rings and found them to be “frivolous.” Instead, engaged women were given silver thimble to use while sewing and mending clothes. After the wedding, the thimbles would be converted into a modest wedding ring.

Impress your lovely lady with your abundant amount of facts about her favorite stone. Even better, do so while shopping for a beautiful piece of diamond jewelry for her. Visit Monahan Jewelry today to browse our incredible selection of jewelry.

GIA, or The Gemological Institute of America, is the world’s primary influence in gemology, diamond grading, jewelry education, and research. The Institute sets the standard, which is why we offer them. Although the diamonds are not necessarily more valuable, they have been thoroughly authenticated by an incredible amount of research.

The GIA is a non-profit, research and education institution that strives to uphold the integrity and high standard of the diamond industry. Established in 1931, GIA created the innovative 4Cs of diamond value guide (carat, color, clarity, and cut). Additionally, it is the birthplace of the International Diamond Grading System™.

Read more »