The Nature of Diamonds at The Royal Ontario Museum
With the shaky economy and uncertainty in the air, it was quite a relief to take a moment this weekend and enjoy one of my favorite things: diamonds. Now, I may not have many of them (three, to be exact – my earrings and engagement ring), but I do love to linger around extravagant jewelry. There’s something so irresponsible and ridiculous about it all…which is fun to indulge in, especially when the cost is only the price of admission.
No photography is allowed in The Nature of Diamonds exhibit (which is running until through March 2009), but I can tell you that you will find a huge amount of history and scientific information alongside the decadence. I found it particularly interesting to read about what’s being done to prevent "blood diamonds" with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which I will admit is one thing that has given this avid diamond lover much pause.
Beautiful examples of how diamonds have become symbols of wealth and importance, as well as the history behind De Beer’s famous A Diamond Is Forever slogan (which is still very much in part of their brand to this day) are fabulous reminders that history is cyclical, people will always love luxury and things will most certainly bounce back.
Image: Ian Irving on Flickr
2 Comments
Rachel,
Does this exhibit include actual diamonds? Is that why photos aren’t allowed? If so, I bet it’s spectacular. Would love to see it.
The Phoenix Traveler
*LOTS* of diamonds…they were pretty spectacular, especially the intricate antique designs!