FT NEWS

When rough diamonds were first found in India over 2,500 years ago, Indians were quick to realise that it was a good idea to pocket the stones. Natural diamonds held its sway over people for their ‘mystical’ powers back in the day, and hence, worn as talismans by kings during battles. By the end of the 14th century when diamond cutting and polishing commenced, it opened up a new avenue to wear them for its pristine beauty. These gemstones have since then captivated generations with their earth-bound origins, magnificence, permanence and preciousness.

Times and technology have certainly changed, but the inherent appeal of natural diamonds has not. And rightly so! They are one of the oldest and rarest natural treasures, which are formed deep (approximately 150-300 kilometres) within the Earth’s crust due to intense heat and pressure causing carbon atoms to crystallise. Fun fact: diamonds were formed between 800 million and 3.4 billion years ago, making them older than some of the stars in the sky. As each rock goes through a different journey (read: surrounding conditions, heat and pressure), every diamond boasts unique colour and clarity. This is why no two diamonds are exactly the same.

Diamonds continue to remain a girl’s best friend

More than its composition and limited supply, natural diamonds carry authenticity, heritage and timelessness, making them smart and sustainable investments. “In today’s changing environment, we all have a greater appreciation of all things natural, consciously choosing products that have an enduring appeal and which continue to stay relevant for decades. We all want fewer but better things that have an emotional value. And what could be better than natural diamonds? They can be restyled, reset and they provide the perfect foil to any stone, enhancing the beauty of every piece of jewellery,” says Richa Singh, managing director of Natural Diamond Council, describing how natural diamonds have further cemented its place in the current circumstances. A statement piece of jewellery makes for the perfect collector’s item, and also an heirloom to pass on to the next generation.

How to ace diamond jewellery this festive season

With all the Diwali celebrations and weddings ahead of us, multiple jewellery options might be vying for your attention, but diamond-encrusted pieces are never a miss for festive and special occasions. You can choose a style crafted using conventional yellow gold for a traditional vibe, or in white gold or platinum for contemporary flair. Natural diamonds can also be complemented with other gemstones like rubies, pearls and emeralds. There are endless design choices to pick from. How about giving done-to-death jhumkas a rain check in favour of shoulder-dusting diamond variants with your kurta set or your mom’s silk sari? Or you can simply rely on a classical pair of chandelier earrings. Statement earrings will also give you an excuse to ditch necklaces for low-key events. If the décolletage has your focus, a Victorian-inspired choker will prove to be the pièce de résistance of your look. Give it the canvas of a cocktail sari and prepare for the compliments to start streaming in. An on-trend multi-stringed necklace can also do the job for you.

An ornate diamond necklace with bridal staples of earrings, maang tikka and bangles can be the crowning glory of a wedding-day look. Brides-to-be can also make their diamond jewellery work double duty by picking detachable pieces or let layers do the heavy-lifting for them. From diamond haathphools that can be reconfigured to bracelet and rings, to complementing long necklace with chokers with your bridal lehengas, these covetables will not fail you, even after your wedding festivities come to close.