Diamonds are often hailed as the "king of gems," and many have heard the adage, "diamonds are forever." But are they really unbreakable? Let's dive into this idea.

What's the Real Deal with Diamonds?

Although diamonds are the hardest known natural material on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, they are not invincible.

This means they're highly resistant to being scratched (only another diamond can scratch a diamond!), but that doesn't mean they can't break or chip.

 Why Do Diamonds Break?

When talking diamonds, it's important to understand the difference between hardness and toughness. Hardness refers to a material's ability to resist scratching, whereas toughness relates to its ability to resist breakage from forceful impacts.

Diamonds, unfortunately, don't have the highest rank in toughness. Within their crystal structure, diamonds have specific structures called cleavage planes. The cleavage planes in diamonds make them susceptible to breaking when struck at the right angle. Think of it as the diamond's Achilles' heel.

How Can We Protect Our Diamonds?

Don't fret about your diamonds yet, there is a lot we can do to prevent a break. Knowing that diamonds have their vulnerabilities makes us more prepared to take care of them. Here are some steps to ensure your precious gem stays intact:

• Store Carefully: Keep diamonds separate from other jewelry pieces, especially other diamonds, to prevent them from scratching each other.

• Avoid Hard Knocks: Be mindful when wearing diamond jewelry. If you're engaging in activities that might lead to hard impacts (like sports or heavy manual labor), consider leaving your diamond pieces safely at home.

• Regularly Inspect: Make a habit of checking your diamond jewelry, especially rings, for any signs of wear, loose settings, or damage. It's better to catch a small issue early than to discover a lost or damaged diamond later.

Is a Broken Diamond the End?

Not necessarily. If your diamond has a minor chip or fracture, skilled jewelers can often recut the diamond or adjust the setting to hide the imperfection. We happen to have a master bench jeweler on site in our store if you ever need repairs!

It might mean a slight reduction in carat weight, but your diamond can still shine brilliantly.

Remember... 

Diamonds, though tough and beautiful, have their vulnerabilities. But with a little care and awareness, you can ensure your gem's longevity. 

Also remember that it's not just the diamond's resistance to breakage or its carat that defines its value, but its history, the memories it holds, and the love it symbolizes.

Looking to add another diamond piece to your collection or seeking advice on maintaining your precious gem? Click here to explore our collection of beautifully crafted diamond pieces.