THE DIAMOND - ENDURING SYMBOL OF LOVE

Until the 15th century only kings wore diamonds as a symbol of strength, courage and invincibility Over the centuries, however, the diamond acquired its unique status as the ultimate gift of love. Indeed it was said that Cupid's arrows were tipped with diamonds which have a magic that nothing else can ever quite equal. Since the very beginning, diamonds have been associated with romance and legend. The very word 'diamond' comes from the Greek'adamas' meaning unconquerable, suggesting the eternity of love. The Greeks also believed the fire in the diamond reflected the constant flame of love.
For millions around the world that fire, the mystery and magic, the beauty and romance shining out from a simple solitaire says all that the heart feels but words can't express. However, it wasn't until 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy, that the tradition of diamond engagement rings was born. The reason a woman wears it on the third finger of her left hand dates back to the early Egyptian belief that the vena amoris (vein of love) ran directly from the heart to the top of the third finger, left hand.
For a growing number of young couples in the early years of marriage, the custom of giving a diamond Anniversary, Eternity or Alliance ring - the band of diamonds that says
my love runs out at the circles end" - is a unique symbol of love's reaffirmation. It is a custom that is stronger and more powerful now than it has ever been. More recently, the 25th Wedding Anniversary is an occasion that has inspired the designers creativity and marks the brilliant celebration of a loving marriage.