The **Why Mom Deserves a Diamond contest** is a long-running U.S. writing competition in which students submit a short, original essay explaining why their mother (or mother figure) deserves a diamond. Founded in 1993 by Michael Watson in honor of his adoptive mother and birth mother, the contest aims to promote gratitude, literacy, and the celebration of motherhood. The contest is primarily geared toward K–12 students in participating schools and regions, though specific grade eligibility and submission procedures can vary by year and by school. Students typically write a brief paragraph or poem in English that expresses appreciation, love, or admiration for their mother, and selected winners receive a garnet or amethyst gemstone (symbolic of a diamond) and certificates. Beyond prizes, participants gain practice in expressive writing and reflection on family relationships.