Diamonds are often considered the ultimate symbol of strength and resilience, but what truly makes them special is their unparalleled hardness. However, even though diamonds are known for their toughness, they are not invincible. In this blog, we’ll explore the hardness of diamonds, what can break them, and how you can best care for and clean your precious gems.
The Hardness of Diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth, ranking a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This means they are incredibly resistant to scratches, which is why they are frequently used in industrial tools and, of course, in fine jewelry. The atomic structure of diamonds – where each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms in a tetrahedral pattern – gives them this unrivaled hardness.
However, while diamonds are resistant to scratches, they have what’s called “cleavage planes” within their structure. These are areas where the atomic bonds are slightly weaker, making diamonds susceptible to breakage if struck at the right angle.
What Can Break a Diamond?
Despite their impressive hardness, diamonds are not indestructible. Several factors can cause a diamond to chip or even break:
Hard Impact: Although diamonds are incredibly hard, they are not impervious to damage. A hard blow, especially along a cleavage plane, can cause the stone to chip or crack. Dropping a diamond ring onto a hard surface or striking it against something equally hard, such as a granite countertop, can lead to breakage.
Pressure: High amounts of concentrated pressure applied to a small area of the diamond can cause cracks or chips. This is why jewelers often handle diamonds with care when setting them in jewelry to avoid placing too much stress on one spot.
Extreme Temperature Changes: Sudden, extreme changes in temperature can create thermal shock, which might cause internal fractures or cracks in a diamond. For example, moving a diamond from a very hot environment into freezing temperatures abruptly could potentially lead to damage.
How to Care for Your Diamond
To ensure your diamond remains in pristine condition, here are some essential care tips:
Regular Inspection: inspected regularly to ensure the setting is secure and the stone is free of chips or cracks. A professional jeweler can check for any looseness in prongs that might expose the stone to damage.
Avoid Wearing During Rough Activities: To prevent accidental damage, avoid wearing your diamond jewelry during activities that could subject it to hard knocks or extreme conditions, such as exercising, cleaning, or doing heavy work.
Proper Storage: Store your diamond jewelry separately from other gemstones. While diamonds won’t scratch easily, they can scratch other jewelry items. Storing them in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal.
Safe Handling: To protect your diamond, you should avoid wearing it while bathing, swimming, cleaning, cooking, or gardening without gloves.
How to Clean Your Diamond
A diamond’s brilliance comes from how it reflects and refracts light, so keeping it clean is essential to maintain its sparkle. Here’s how to clean your diamonds safely at home:
Warm Water and Mild Soap: Mix warm water with a mild dishwashing liquid or soap in a small bowl. Soak your diamond jewelry in the solution for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen any dirt or oils. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the stone, paying particular attention to the areas around the setting where grime may accumulate. Rinse the jewelry in warm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While diamonds are durable, some chemicals like chlorine, bleach, or ammonia can damage the metal settings. It’s best to avoid using these chemicals when cleaning your diamond jewelry.
Use Jewelry-Specific Cleaners: There are commercial jewelry cleaners available that are safe for diamonds and other precious stones. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, and always rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
Professional Cleaning: For a thorough cleaning, take your diamond jewelry to a professional jeweler. Many jewelers offer ultrasonic or steam cleaning services that can remove built-up dirt and restore the gem’s brilliance.
Final Thoughts
Diamonds may be the hardest substance on Earth, but they still require proper care to maintain their beauty. Understanding their strength, as well as their potential vulnerabilities, can help you avoid accidental damage and keep your precious diamond jewelry looking stunning for generations.
By following the tips above, you can ensure your diamond remains not only a symbol of strength but also of everlasting beauty.