All About the April Birthstone

If you have an April birthday, you're lucky to have a diamond as your birthstone. It's a popular, breathtaking gemstone that makes an unforgettable gift. Continue reading to learn more about researching, identifying, buying, and caring for diamonds.

Diamond Background

The process to create a lab-grown diamond is similar to the process to create natural diamonds - the only difference is one occurs within the earth's crust over millions of years and the other occurs in a laboratory. To create a lab grown diamond, the manufacturing process replicates conditions that create a natural diamond creation - extreme temperatures and pressures that turn carbon into a diamond.

It is thought diamonds were first discovered in India around 2,500 years ago. Diamonds were prized as divine objects by Indian rulers. Until the 18th century, India was thought to be the only source of diamonds. Today, diamonds are mined from Russia, Botswana, Canada, Angola, and South Africa.

April Birthstone Meaning

Each month has a corresponding birthstone that astrologers believe protects the wearer from harm and accentuates the traits for each astrological sign. Astrologers say those with April birthdays are courageous, tenacious, and enthusiastic, which align with diamond's traits. Diamonds symbolize romance, grace, serenity, artistry, and humanitarianism much like people born in April.

Diamond Quality

Diamonds are evaluated using color, cut, carat and clarity scales, so review this information before shopping for stones. Grading determines the diamond's quality and affects the look of the stone. A good cut affects the diamond's brilliance (sparkle), so you'll want to look at each potential stone carefully. The color, carat, and clarity depend on your budget and preferences. Every diamond is unique, so keep that in mind while you browse these coveted gemstones.

In addition to their meaning and beauty, diamonds are an ideal choice for everyday wear because of their durability and hardness (10 on the Mohs hardness scale).

Identifying Diamonds

Natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds are both made of carbon and look the same because each has its own natural imperfections, but differences cannot be seen by the naked eye. The certification of the diamond is the best way to know if the diamond is lab created or natural.

Buying Diamond Jewelry

A diamond gift is amazing to give and to receive. It's a gorgeous, sparkling stone, so it's no wonder it's a coveted gemstone because of its symbolism and its rarity. Diamonds are well-known for their use in engagement rings and wedding bands. However, you can find some stunning diamond gifts in earrings, anniversary bands, and necklaces.

Jewelry makes an unforgettable gift! Whether you have an April birthday or simply admire diamonds, these sparkling stones make a statement for holidays, anniversaries, graduation, weddings, mother's day, or as a “just because” present.

• Budget: Have an idea of how much you'd like to spend.
• Preferences: If you're buying a gift for an April birthday gift, keep that person's personal preferences in mind while you shop. Pay attention to the types of metals your special someone wears - notice if they wear more platinum or yellow gold.
• 4Cs: Review information about the 4Cs so you have a good understanding of these aspects. Don't underestimate the importance of the cut - everyone wants diamonds with glittering fire and sparkle.
• Research the seller: Check to see if the diamonds are certified and research the warranty details.

Caring for Your Diamond Jewelry

You want to keep your diamond jewelry sparkling for years, so it's important to care for it. Store your jewelry in a lined, compartmentalized jewelry box so nothing rubs against it. If you're going swimming, exercising, or hiking, you might want to leave your diamonds at home to protect it.

In addition to storing your bracelet safely, you'll also want to clean everyday debri and grime from it. Avoid harsh chemicals and instead use a soft-bristled brush with a fragrance-free soap or a jewelry cleaning solution to gently move the brush in circles to remove buildup. You can also soak your jewelry before using a brush.