The Brilliant Edit

Women’s History Paved In Diamonds

Key takeaways
  • Frances Gerety coined "Diamonds are Forever" in 1947, linking diamonds to eternal love and boosting mass-market demand.
  • Coco Chanel partnered with jewelers during the 1920s and 1930s, helping the diamond industry survive the Great Depression.
  • Gemologist Eunice Miles pioneered microscopic and molecular tests in the 1950s and 1960s to distinguish real diamonds from glass.
  • Charlotte Isabella Newman broke gender barriers in the late 1800s, becoming a sought after jeweler who integrated gems into her designs.
  • Mary of Burgundy wore the first recorded diamond engagement ring in 1477, starting the tradition of diamond proposals.

Five Women Who Made Diamonds Brilliant

Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend, but women have done wonders to make these gems the fashion staple we know and love. Today, we’re brushing up on our diamond history and meeting a few of the brilliant women who changed the industry. 

Frances Gerety Made “Forever” Possible

Everyone has heard the tell-tale saying, “diamonds are forever.” Those three simple words tie these glittering beauties to eternal love and the promise of a happily ever after, and all thanks to Frances Gerety. In 1947, she came up with the slogan in a campaign to help bring diamond jewelry to the masses. 

Coco Chanel Helped Save The Industry

The 1920s and 1930s were difficult times for people around the world. The Great Depression saw businesses struggle, and diamonds were one of the industries at risk. 

Coco Chanel’s reputation for creating comfortable and functional fashion allowed her to thrive in uncertain times. Rather than bask in her success, she collaborated with diamond jewelers to help them stay afloat.

Eunice Miles Kept Diamonds Real 

Not long ago, it was nearly impossible to tell the difference between a true diamond and a piece of cut glass. That all changed with gemologist Eunice Miles. In the 1950s and 1960s, she became a pioneer in spotting the minuscule and molecular characteristics of diamonds that are still used today to keep the industry authentic. 

Charlotte Isabella Newman Brought A Woman’s Touch To Style

For thousands of years, the art of making jewelry was a boys only club. That is until Charlotte Isabella Newman joined the game in the late-1800s. Starting as a goldsmith, she soon began incorporating gems, diamonds included, in her pieces. Despite being banned from shows for being a woman, she made waves and became one of the most sought-out jewelers in London.

Mary Of Burgundy Made History

It might seem like diamonds have always been a precious part of any proposal, but that’s actually not the case. For hundreds of years, brides-to-be wore rings similar to wedding bands. They were simple, small, and relatively plain. 

Mary of Burgundy truly changed history in 1477 by being the first woman on record to have a diamond in her engagement ring. From there, the path to true love became paved in diamonds. 

Have a #BrilliantWoman in your life? Tag her on your socials and show the world how diamond strong women truly are. 

Cheryl Robichaux
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