Diamonds: An Early History of the King of Gems is a book by Jack Ogden that explores the history of diamonds from their early mining and trade more than two thousand years ago to the 1700s, when Brazil displaced India as the world’s primary diamond supplier. Ogden, a historian and gemologist specializing in ancient gems and jewelry, describes the early history of diamond jewelry, the development of diamond cutting, and how diamonds were assessed and valued.
The book is divided into three parts. The first part, “The Ancient World,” explores the history of diamonds from their first recorded use in ancient India to their arrival in Europe in the 14th century. Ogden discusses the different ways that diamonds were used in ancient jewelry, as well as the beliefs and superstitions that surrounded diamonds at the time.
The second part of the book, “The Renaissance and the Age of Exploration,” covers the period from the 14th century to the 17th century. This was a time of great expansion for the diamond trade, as diamonds were discovered in new parts of the world and new methods of cutting and polishing were developed. Ogden discusses the role of diamonds in the Renaissance courts of Europe, as well as the rise of the diamond merchant as a powerful figure in the global economy.
The third part of the book, “The 18th Century and Beyond,” explores the history of diamonds from the 1700s to the present day. This was a time of great change for the diamond industry, as diamonds became increasingly popular as a symbol of wealth and status. Ogden discusses the development of the diamond engagement ring, as well as the rise of the diamond cartel, which has controlled the global diamond market for much of the 20th century.
The book concludes with a discussion of the ethical issues surrounding the diamond trade. Ogden argues that the diamond industry has a long history of exploitation and abuse, and that consumers should be aware of the ethical implications of buying diamonds. He also discusses the growing movement for ethical engagement rings, which are made with diamonds that have been mined and traded in a responsible manner.
Diamonds: An Early History of the King of Gems is a fascinating and informative book that provides a comprehensive overview of the history of diamonds. Ogden’s writing is clear and engaging, and he does a great job of weaving together the history, science, and culture of diamonds. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in learning more about the world’s most popular gemstone.
If you are looking for an ethical engagement rings uk, there are a number of retailers that offer lab grown diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are created in a laboratory, rather than mined from the earth. This makes them a more sustainable option than natural diamonds, and they are often available at a fraction of the cost.
Here are a few UK retailers that offer ethical engagement rings with lab grown diamonds:
Diamond Foundry: Diamond Foundry is a California-based company that produces lab grown diamonds. They offer a wide range of lab grown diamonds, including round, princess, oval, and marquise cuts.
Brilliant Earth: Brilliant Earth is a New York-based company that sells ethically sourced jewelry, including engagement rings with lab grown diamonds. They offer a variety of lab grown diamonds, as well as a variety of settings to choose from.
James Allen: James Allen is a California-based company that sells lab grown diamonds online. They offer a wide selection of lab grown diamonds, as well as a variety of settings to choose from.
When choosing an ethical engagement ring with a lab grown diamond, it is important to do your research and find a reputable retailer. You should also make sure that the diamond is certified by a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the GIA or the IGI.
With so many ethical engagement ring options available, you can find the perfect ring to symbolize your love and commitment to your partner, without compromising your values.