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Diamonds have been synonymous with luxury, glamor, and good taste since time immemorial. Today, the global trade in diamonds is worth a staggering $87.31 billion and spans every corner of the globe.

Whether as a stylish accessory or a valuable asset, diamonds continue to fascinate and inspire people the world over. With that in mind, here are 11 interesting facts about diamonds you probably didn't know. 

1. Diamonds Are Billions of Years Old

One of the most interesting facts about diamonds is that the oldest ones known to man are at least 3 billion years old. The process and pressures needed to create a diamond require mother nature to do her work for billions of years.

2. Diamonds Are the Hardest Natural Substance Known to Man

Another mind-blowing tidbit of diamond information is the fact that only a diamond can scratch another diamond. That's how durable they are. 

3. Most Diamonds Are Industrial

That vast majority of diamonds, around 80% of them, are used in industrial processes. Due to the toughness of diamonds, they are mostly used in industrial drilling and cutting processes. 

4. Not All Diamonds Are White 

Here's some diamond facts and information you might not know; many diamonds are not white. There are naturally occurring yellow, red, blue, pink, black, orange, and green, to name just a few. 

5. Most Valuable Diamond is Worth $2 Billion

How's this for diamond facts; the largest diamond ever mined, the Cullinan Diamond, is worth a staggering $2 billion. Mined in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan Diamond weighs a staggering 3106 carats. 

6. There Are Diamonds in Space

Space scientists have discovered that so-called white dwarf stars each have a massive pure diamond core at their center. The largest of these apparently weighs more than 10 billion carats. 

7. Diamonds Were Once Thought to Have Healing Properties 

In the Middle Ages, diamonds were thought to protect the wearer from a wide range of illnesses. They were also thought to ward off evil spirits and demons. 

8. First Diamond Engagement Ring Was Used in 1477 A.D.

The Archduke Maximilian of Austria is thought to be the first man in history to have proposed with a diamond engagement ring. The lucky woman in question was Mary of Burgundy, who received a ring of flat diamonds set in a letter 'M' formation. 

9. Diamonds Have Been Linked to Love Since Ancient Times 

The Ancient Romans believed that the tip of Cupid's arrow consisted of a diamond. This is one of the earliest conflations of diamonds with love, a relationship that has lasted to this day. 

10. Diamonds Consist of a Single Element

Pure diamonds are 100% carbon. Although this is one of the most common elements on the planet, it takes a very rare bonding process to form a true diamond. 

11. Most Diamonds Come From Only a Few Countries 

For the last of your diamond facts, consider that around 88% of all diamonds ever mined on Earth come from just a handful of countries. These are; Russia, Botswana, Canada, Angola, and South Africa. 

If These Facts About Diamonds Inspired You... 

If these fascinating facts about diamonds inspired you, perhaps it is time to add to your collection. If so, we are here to help.

Do not hesitate to get in touch with our esteemed diamond experts today to learn more about our collection or arrange an appraisal. With Annapolis Jewelers, you'll be able to find diamonds of all shapes and sizes that are perfect for any occasion.