01
der Diamant
diamond
A very hard, transparent, and valuable gemstone that consists of pure carbon and is often made into jewelry.
example
Ihr Verlobungsring hat einen kleinen Diamanten.
Her engagement ring has a small diamond.
der Diamant
diamond
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Origin of the word
The name 'Diamant' (diamond) is derived from the Greek word 'adámas', meaning 'unconquerable'. This refers to the extreme hardness of the material, its best-known property.
EXAMPLE
Die Härte des Diamanten ist sprichwörtlich.
The hardness of diamond is proverbial.
Typical adjectives
As a gemstone, 'Diamant' (diamond) is often combined with adjectives that describe its quality and appearance. Common combinations are 'ein reiner Diamant' (a pure diamond), 'ein funkelnder Diamant' (a sparkling diamond), or 'ein geschliffener Diamant' (a cut diamond).
EXAMPLE
Sie trug eine Kette mit einem wunderschön funkelnden Diamanten.
She wore a necklace with a beautifully sparkling diamond.
Context clue: industry
When 'Diamant' (diamond) is used in a technical or industrial context, it almost always refers to the material. Signal words for this are 'industriell' (industrial), 'synthetisch' (synthetic), 'schneiden' (to cut), or 'bohren' (to drill).
EXAMPLE
Die Sägeblätter sind mit synthetischen Diamanten beschichtet.
The saw blades are coated with synthetic diamonds.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'ein ungeschliffener Diamant' (an uncut diamond) is a very common metaphor. It describes a person or thing with great potential that has not yet been developed.
EXAMPLE
Der junge Sportler gilt als ungeschliffener Diamant seines Vereins.
The young athlete is considered the uncut diamond of his club.
Compare with
Diamant vs Schatz
darling / treasure
'Schatz' and 'Diamant' both have to do with something very valuable. A 'Schatz' can be a collection of gold, jewelry, or other valuable things. But it can also mean a particularly valuable or dear person. A 'Diamant' is a specific valuable gemstone. Figuratively, you can also call a person or thing a 'Diamant' if they are especially good or valuable. 'Schatz' is more general and often more emotional. 'Diamant' is more concrete when talking about jewelry, and figuratively it is more of a strong compliment.
Diamant
Im Ring ihrer Großmutter glänzt ein kleiner Diamant.
A small diamond shines in her grandmother's ring.
Schatz
Im alten Schrank fanden die Kinder einen kleinen Schatz aus Münzen und Schmuck.
In the old cupboard, the children found a small treasure of coins and jewelry.
In real life
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