Why diamonds are such objects of desire

They're the epitome of romance, glamor, and status and yet they are nothing more than carbon. The first diamonds came to Europe from India. How did they become an object of desire and a symbol of eternity? What is behind their incomparable radiance?

DW reporter Karin Helmstaedt travels to South Africa, one of the most important source countries for diamonds. In the depths of the Cullinan Diamond Mine, more than 800 meters underground, she learns about where diamonds were formed some three billion years ago. It was here, in the year 1905 that the world's largest diamond to date was found.

Karin visits the DIVA Museum in Antwerp, Belgium, which displays magnificent diamonds and jewelry, with shining examples of centuries-old craftsmanship. We learn how Antwerp became the world capital of diamonds and why the business was long dominated by Jewish traders and diamond cutters. Some 160 km away, in Amsterdam, she gains insight into the art of diamond cutting.

We also take a look behind the shimmering facade of the precious stone to how conflict diamonds have influenced our understanding of what diamonds represent, especially in Africa.

With growing concerns about the environmental cost of diamond mining, synthetic diamonds—meaning those produced in a laboratory—have arrived as competitors for their natural counterparts.

However, natural diamonds may have positive social impact and an enduring allure.