Important role of diamond in ancient India

It is unclear when diamonds were first mine in India, although estimate to be in the ancient times. Diamonds were used to decorate religious objects, serve as a talisman against evil and a protector in battle.

The Ratnapariksa by Buddha Bhatta, from the fifth century CE, contains the diamonds’ myth of origin: According to this legend, the gods were unable to overcome the king Bala. To avert defeat they ask him to offer himself in sacrifice in a ritual to their honour.

Bala is too proud to refuse, and his boy is torn to pieces. Because of the valor and purity of his voluntary death, his remains turn into diamonds.

Gods, serpents and the minor divinities of Siddhas and Yakshas pick them up, and in flying over the land, let them fall to the earth and there create diamond deposits.

The Hindus classed diamonds according to the four categories. The Brahmin diamond (colorless) gave power, friends, riches and good luck; the Kshatriya (brown/champagne) prevented old age; Vaisya (the color of Kodali flower) brought success; and the Sudra (a diamond with the sheen of a polished blade-probably gray or black) brought all types of good fortune. If a diamond is worn by the member of a wrong caste, it brings bad luck and even death.

It is believed that Alexander the Great brought the first diamonds to Europe from India in 327 BC, instigating the expansion of trade routes between Europe and the East.
Important role of diamond in ancient India