Diamonds are often viewed as the ultimate symbol of strength and permanence, making the question "Can diamonds break?" seem counterintuitive. However, while diamonds are renowned for their remarkable durability, they are not indestructible. Understanding the nuances of diamond hardness and toughness is key to appreciating their beauty and knowing how to care for them.
Diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth, ranking a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, which measures resistance to scratching. This unparalleled hardness means only another diamond can scratch its surface. However, hardness alone doesn’t make a diamond unbreakable.
Toughness, which measures resistance to breaking or chipping, is a different story. Diamonds have a unique crystal structure with natural cleavage planes—areas where atomic bonds are weaker. This means that while they resist scratches exceptionally well, diamonds can chip or fracture if subjected to sharp impacts or concentrated force. These cleavage planes are the reason why the answer to 'Can diamonds break?' is yes under specific circumstances.
Contrary to popular belief, diamonds can break under certain conditions. Everyday activities and accidents often expose them to risks:
Even seemingly minor incidents, such as a ring knocking against a countertop or being caught on a seatbelt, have caused diamonds to break. Recognizing these risks helps answer the question, "Can diamonds break?", and highlights the importance of mindful wear.
Diamonds can withstand substantial pressure, but specific scenarios can still result in damage. Knowing these conditions can help prevent accidents and answer the common concern 'can diamonds break?' with better awareness.
Even a small imperfection, such as an inclusion or a loose setting, can make a diamond more vulnerable under these conditions.
Whether a diamond is mined from the earth or created in a laboratory, its fundamental properties remain the same. Can you break diamonds created in a lab differently from natural ones? Absolutely not.
Both lab-grown and mined diamonds share identical characteristics, including a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, the same crystal structure, equivalent vulnerability to breaking, and identical care requirements. The origin of a diamond does not affect its ability to withstand impacts or its potential to break.
Diamonds themselves are remarkably resistant to chemical damage, but their metal settings are far more vulnerable. Can diamonds break from chemical exposure? Not directly, but damaged settings can increase the risk of diamond loss or make the stone more vulnerable.
Exposure to chemicals such as chlorine from swimming pools and hot tubs, household cleaning products, bleach, ammonia, saltwater, and even lotions, perfumes, and beauty products can weaken the metal prongs and settings that hold your diamond securely.
Over time, these substances can cause corrosion and brittleness in gold and other precious metals, leading to loose settings and exposing the diamond to potential impacts. This gradual compromise of the structural integrity of your jewelry can result in costly repairs or even complete stone loss.
To protect your diamond and its setting, it’s important to take precautions. Remove your jewelry during high-impact activities and whenever you’re handling harsh chemicals. Store your diamonds separately in soft-lined compartments to avoid scratches or damage from other pieces.
By being mindful of these risks and avoiding unnecessary exposure to chemicals and impacts, you can help preserve the brilliance and security of your diamond jewelry.
Regular professional care is essential for preserving the brilliance and integrity of your diamond jewelry. While home maintenance is helpful, professional inspections provide a level of care that goes beyond what you can achieve at home.
At Nelson Coleman Jewelers, we offer complimentary basic cleanings and inspections to help safeguard your cherished pieces. Our expert team thoroughly examines your jewelry to identify potential vulnerabilities, such as loose settings or worn prongs, which could lead to costly repairs or even the loss of your diamond if left unaddressed.
If you’re unable to visit Nelson Coleman Jewelers, it’s important to choose a jeweler with the right qualifications for inspecting your jewelry. Look for certifications from trusted organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). These accreditations demonstrate a high level of expertise and professionalism, ensuring your jewelry will be inspected and cleaned with care. A reputable jeweler will have the skills and tools to identify issues like loose prongs, worn settings, or hidden damage, protecting your investment and minimizing future repair costs.
Diamonds are among the most durable gemstones, but even they have their limits. Understanding how and why diamonds can break empowers you to care for them properly and prevent unnecessary damage. With mindful at-home care and regular professional maintenance, your diamonds can maintain their brilliance and value for generations to come.
Visit Nelson Coleman Jewelers for expert guidance, complimentary cleanings, and inspections. Let our experienced professionals help you preserve the beauty, integrity, and longevity of your most cherished jewelry pieces.
