Diamonds have a rich history as prized possessions. These exquisite gems undergo a series of transformations before gracing the display cases of jewelers.

Originating in the extreme conditions of high temperature and pressure deep within the Earth, diamonds are propelled upwards by geological movements until they emerge or nearly reach the Earth's surface.

Through natural or human-induced forces, they resurface, undergoing processes of cleaving, cutting, and polishing until they dazzle with natural beauty.

The allure of diamonds traces back to ancient India, where they were harvested from rivers and streams. Historical accounts suggest that diamonds were traded in India as early as the fourth century BC, catering to a select market of affluent Indians. Over time, the trade routes shifted, and Indian diamonds, along with other luxury goods, were transported to the medieval markets of Venice via caravans traversing Western Europe. By the 15th century, diamonds had become a symbol of prestige among Europe's aristocracy.

As the supply of Indian diamonds dwindled in the early 18th century, Brazil emerged as another significant source. Diamond discoveries occurred serendipitously as miners sifting through gravel for gold stumbled upon these precious stones. Brazil dominated the diamond market for over 150 years until new deposits were unearthed elsewhere.

While the origins of diamonds shifted, so too did the dynamics of the diamond market. The decline of the former ruling class in the late 18th century gave rise to new centers of wealth in Western Europe and the United States. The late 19th century witnessed a surge in diamond demand, prompting explorers to uncover rich deposits in South Africa.

The South African diamond fields revolutionized various aspects of the diamond industry, notably transitioning mining from surface to underground operations. This shift necessitated advancements in mining techniques and marketing strategies, leading to improvements in cutting and polishing processes. These innovations enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced the final product's appearance.

In the 1870s, annual rough diamond production was modest, but by the 1920s, it had surged to around 3 million carats. Half a century later, production approached 50 million carats per year, exceeding 100 million carats annually by the 1990s.

While diamonds have been celebrated for centuries for their brilliance, scientific understanding of them remained limited until the 20th century. Since then, extensive research by chemists, physicists, geologists, mineralogists, and oceanographers has expanded our knowledge of diamonds, particularly regarding their formation and transportation to the surface. This accumulation of knowledge aids in predicting new diamond discoveries.