Brussels, Les Iles, 2024 hardcover, 262 pages very richly illustrated with coloured illustrations, . ISBN 9781446123133.
A Journey into the World of Diamonds. is a dazzling tribute to the enchanting realm of diamonds. We proudly present this remarkable work because it embarks on a journey to explore the mysterious world of diamonds in the twenty-first century, shedding light on the transformative changes that have characterized the past decade. From the dawn of our history to the present day, diamonds have possessed an allure that distinguish- es them from all other gems, inspiring countless mythologies. These precious stones have served as symbols of authority, grandeur, love, and even spirituality. They?ve been treasured as a repository of wealth by monarchs, evident in the rich histories of royal crown jewels. Ancient legends still whisper tales of the origin and composition of diamonds. Stories like Sinbad?s Valley of Diamonds, the fabled mines of the imaginary prince Prester John, or the cursed stones pilfered from sacred temples that cast misfortune upon their possessors continue to captivate our imagination. Yet, the actual world of diamonds, in its own right, is as wondrous as these myths. This world unfolds in stark contrasts, showcasing the exquisite beauty of diamonds against the back- drop of the complex and often unforgiving environments where they are unearthed and transformed into radiant gems. The intricate processes that lead to the creation of the jewelry displayed in store windows remain shrouded in mystery, compelling us to illuminate the essential facets of a diamond?s voyage, from the depths of a mine to the showcase and finally to the wearer. This diamond supply chain has undergone profound transformations in the past decade. Our exploration spans the globe, from the diamond mines of Russia and Canada to the African heartland and the bustling hubs of rough diamond trading and cutting. We delve into the histories of diamonds and their meticulous craftsmanship, revealing how stones mined in India over a thousand years ago continue to adorn us today. Diamonds, virtually indestructible, ensure that every diamond ever mined still exists. We turn our attention to both ancient and contemporary jewels, each one a unique and priceless masterpiece, alongside those worn in everyday life.