The Origins of the Heart Shaped Diamond
The history of heart shaped diamonds can be traced back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries. One of the earliest known references comes from a letter written in 1463 by the Duke of Milan, Galeazzo Maria Sforza, who mentioned a “heart shape diamond” gifted to him. At the time, such gemstones were considered extraordinary due to the skill and precision that it takes to cut them. Bellissimo.
The design gained even more popularity in the 16th century when Mary, Queen of Scots, is reported to have sent a heart shaped diamond ring to Queen Elizabeth I as a symbol of friendship. This gesture was a great way of connecting the diamond to friendship and an emotional connection.
As diamond cutting techniques advanced during the Renaissance, the heart shaped diamond was able to evolve from a rare curiosity into something aspirational. Its unique form required a careful balance of symmetry and proportion, making it a tangible testament to the cutter’s artistry.