History of Black Diamond Violin Strings

Black Diamond Strings is one of the oldest instrument string manufacturers in the country. Its string offerings include products for acoustic guitar, upright bass, pedal steel and mandolin. Black Diamond's violin strings have long been considered among the best-made and longest-lasting strings on the market.

Beginnings

Black Diamond Strings began manufacturing violin strings in 1890. Its hand-made strings became a popular choice, particularly among bluegrass musicians all throughout the 20th century.

Manufacturing

Black Diamond violin strings are manufactured in a custom shop in Sarasota, Florida. The company utilizes sophisticated winders and strong materials to build long-lasting violin strings.

Types

Black Diamond makes two basic violin strings: chromium and silverplated. Chromium strings are made of a chromium material wound on a solid core (except for the E string, which is made of steel), and are used primarily by classical violinists. Silverplated strings feature two silverplated-made strings (the G and D) and two steel-made strings (the A and E). These strings are marketed primarily to fiddle players for bluegrass and folk performance. Both types come in a variety of gauges.

Retail

Black Diamond sells its violin strings primarily through independent music retailers in all 50 states. Its strings may also be purchased online through major Internet music stores.

BD Today

In 2001, string maker Cavanaugh Company acquired Black Diamond. Cavanaugh was especially interested in Black Diamond's cross-genre applications for its instrument strings.

References

• Black Diamond Strings
• Musical Merchandise Review