I am trying to understand it from the most basic level. Anything helps, especially diagrams.

First of all, there r multiple diamond systems, depending on the situation - how many rails, which rail first, etc. Below r a series of pages that r good to start with. There r other pages in the series & if u go up a level, u can see them all. One of the best books on banking is ''Banking with the Beard'' by Freddy Bentivegna. Also, look for Desmond Allen is ''Win at Pocket Billiards''. Both of the books cover multiple systems for all kinds of kicks & banks. l also hear Robert Byrne is Standard Book of Pool & Billiards has a section on diamond systems too, & it is probably easier to find at ur local library. l have not seen it personally, so l will leave that for others to comment on.

Like Tim said they are aim points for dozens of diffrent systems
Tons of books on the subject ck Tims site im still ripping cloth trying some of those

There is another excellent book out that has a chapter devoted to the diamond system. It has diagrams and is explained in terms that most anyone can understand.

The book covers virtually every subject about playing pool and has something for a novice to a seasoned player. You wo not be disappointed!