Diamonds are the kind of stones that are traditionally considered to be the strongest. But in fact this is a slight misconception, because our world is huge and in any case there will be something that will break this precious stone.
Yes, they are the hardest natural substances on Earth, however, hardness and toughness are distinct properties. These gems are incredibly hard. It means they resist scratching. However, they can still break under certain conditions. Factors that can cause a gem to break include:
- Impact
- Extreme Pressure
- Temperature
- Chemicals
- And others
In our article, we will dive deep into this phenomenon. We will help you to understand these factors and you can take steps to protect your product and ensure its longevity. So, join us and read the article to the end. Get all the vital “can real diamonds break” info for your jewelry care.
The Difference Between Hardness and Toughness in Diamonds
These valuable gems are popular for their hardness. We often consider them the hardest natural substance. However, hardness is not the only factor determining durability. Toughness is equally important.
Hardness refers to a material's resistance to scratching. Diamonds excel in this regard due to their strong atomic structure. The carbon atoms in a stone are tightly bonded. It can make it difficult for other substances to penetrate the surface and break diamonds.
Toughness, on the other hand, is a material's ability to absorb energy and resist fracture. Diamonds are incredibly hard, however, they can be brittle. It means they can break under sudden impact. This is due to the perfect crystalline structure of gems. Any imperfection or flaw in the crystal lattice can act as a weak point. It makes the stone more susceptible to breakage.
Therefore, a gem’s hardness makes it resistant to scratches. However, its brittleness can limit its toughness. A gem can still break if subjected to significant force or impact.
Common Causes of Diamond Breakage
Despite their hardness, diamonds can still break under certain conditions. So, what breaks diamonds? Here are some common causes of breakage:
Impact Damage
Unlike what many believe, diamonds can indeed shatter. A diamond's crystalline structure makes it particularly vulnerable to strikes at specific angles. Professional jewelers know this well – they use this property when cutting diamonds. However, this same characteristic means that:
- Accidental drops can cause chips or cracks
- Direct hits with hard objects may lead to fractures
- Even small impacts at the right angle can cause significant damage
The Temperature Factor
While diamonds can withstand extreme heat (they're formed under intense pressure and temperature), sudden temperature changes pose a serious threat:
- Thermal shock can create internal stress
- Rapid heating or cooling may cause structural weakness
- Extreme temperature fluctuations can lead to cracking
Chemical Exposure
Many ask, "Can real diamonds break?" due to chemical exposure? While diamonds themselves are chemically stable, their settings and overall durability can be compromised by:
- Chlorine-based cleaning products
- Harsh industrial chemicals
- Prolonged exposure to corrosive substances These chemicals primarily affect the metal settings, potentially leaving the diamond more vulnerable to physical damage.
Manufacturing and Natural Flaws
Not all diamond damage comes from external forces. Internal characteristics can make some stones more susceptible to breakage:
- Inclusions (internal imperfections)
- Growth defects in the crystal structure
- Stress points from the cutting process
- Natural fissures within the stone
It's important to note that even minor impacts or scratches can damage a material because diamonds are breakable like other materials. It’s especially if it has existing flaws or imperfections.
What Role Does a Diamond’s Cut Play in Its Durability?
A diamond's cut affects both its appearance and durability. All gem forms are beautiful, however, some are more prone to breakage than others:
- Round Form. Round stones are considered the most durable form. Their rounded shape distributes stress evenly. It makes them less susceptible to chipping.
- Princess Form. Princess-from stones have sharp corners and pointed edges. They are more vulnerable to breakage and make your diamonds more breakable, especially if the gem is subjected to impact.
- Marquise Form. Like princess-form ones, marquise-cut stones have pointed ends. These can also be prone to chipping.
- Pear Form. Pear-form gems combine the round and marquise shapes. The rounded portion is more durable. However, the pointed tip can be more fragile and in that case, it is possible to break a diamond.
It's important to choose a gem form that suits your lifestyle and needs. If you're concerned about durability, a round form might be the best choice. However, you may prefer a more unique one. Then, you can take steps to protect your precious stone jewelry, for example, avoid impact and extreme temperature changes.
Pressure and Heat: Can Extreme Conditions Break a Diamond?
These gems are often perceived as indestructible. However, even the hardest substance can succumb to extreme conditions. Diamonds are incredibly resistant to scratching. However, they can indeed break under specific circumstances. So, let’s focus on them in more detail:
- Pressure. Diamonds form under immense pressure deep within the Earth's crust. This high pressure is necessary for their formation. However, it doesn't mean they are invincible to extra pressure. The pressure required to break a gem is higher than what is typically encountered in everyday life. To fracture a precious stone, it would need to be subjected to pressures far exceeding those found at the Earth's surface.
- Heat. The heat is another way how diamonds can break. The valuable stones are also remarkably stable at high temperatures. They can withstand well above 1,000 degrees Celsius, without melting or altering the structure. However, rapid temperature changes can induce stress within the gem. It potentially leads to fractures. Also, prolonged exposure to very high temperatures can cause the stone to oxidize and deteriorate.
While diamonds are incredibly hard and durable, real diamonds can break because they are not indestructible. Under extreme conditions of pressure and temperature, these gems can indeed break or fracture. However, these conditions are far beyond normal situations. To protect your jewelry, you must handle it with care. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals. And have it professionally cleaned and inspected regularly.
Can Real Diamonds Crack or Chip? How to Identify Damage
To determine if your gem has been damaged, consider these key indicators.
Visible Cracks or Chips:
- Inspect the Stone Closely. Use a 10x jeweler's loupe to examine the gem’s facets, girdle, and culet for any visible cracks or chips. Note that any break in a diamond is called a feather.
- Check for Discontinuity. Look for any breaks in the gem’s smooth surface. A crack or chip will disrupt the continuity of the facets.
- Assess the Severity. Minor chips or hairline cracks may not significantly impact the gem’s appearance or value. However, larger or deeper damage can be more noticeable.
Loss of Brilliance:
- Diminished Sparkle. A damaged stone may exhibit a reduced sparkle or brilliance compared to its original state.
- Cloudy or Hazy Look. Cracks can scatter light, causing the gem to appear cloudy or hazy.
Compromised Structural Integrity:
- Weakened Stone. A damaged gem may be more susceptible to further breakage or chipping, especially if the damage is located on a stress point.
How do you act to cut the risk of breaking the diamond? Follow these precautions:
- Proper Storage. Store your gem jewelry in a secure, padded case to protect it from accidental impacts.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals. Keep your piece away from harsh chemicals, such as chlorine. They can weaken the metal setting and increase the risk of damage.
- Regular Cleaning. Clean your gem regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the piece or its setting.
- Professional Inspection. Have your stone inspected by a professional jeweler at least once a year to identify any potential issues and perform necessary maintenance.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the longevity and beauty of your jewelry.
How to Protect Your Diamond from Damage
Diamonds are not easy to break. However, they can still be susceptible to some damage. To ensure the longevity of your precious piece, consider the following tips.
Choosing the Right Setting:
- Secure Setting. Opt for a setting that securely holds the gem in place. A prong setting, for example, can provide excellent protection against accidental impacts.
- Metal Durability. Choose a durable metal for the setting, for example, platinum or 18k gold. These metals are strong and resistant to wear and tear.
- Consider the Gem’s Shape. The form of the stone can influence its vulnerability to damage. Rounded shapes, like round or oval, are generally more durable than those with pointed ends, such as marquise or pear.
Regular Maintenance:
- Professional Cleaning. Have your diamond cleaned by a professional jeweler at least once a year. They can remove dirt, grime, and oils. These can accumulate on the gem and its setting. This way, you can avoid diamond breaks.
- Inspect for Loose Stones. Regularly inspect your diamonds for loose stones or damaged settings. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals. Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals. Avoid chlorine and bleach. They can damage the metal setting and weaken the stone.
Mindful Wear:
- Remove Jewelry During Activities. Take off your gem before engaging in activities that could expose it to impact or harsh conditions. For example, sports, cleaning, or gardening.
- Store Safely. Store your gem jewelry in a secure, padded case or box. This is vital to protect it from scratches and accidental damage.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures. Extreme temperatures are what can break diamond. Avoid exposing your pieces to extreme temperatures. Rapid temperature changes can cause stress and damage.
However, no matter what jewelry you buy. Choosing a reputable jeweler is essential. Discover a world of exquisite jewelry, meticulously made to complement your unique style. Our collection offers many solutions, from classic to contemporary.
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