Diamonds are considered one of the most precious gemstones in the world. Known for their unparalleled beauty and hardness, diamonds are often seen as invincible, but can diamonds break? This question is important to understand for those who own or plan to own a diamond. In this blog, brought to you by Victoria Marie Jewelers, we will explore the topic of diamond breakage and provide insights on how to properly care for your diamond to prevent it from breaking.
Properties of Diamonds
To understand if diamonds can break, it is important to first understand the properties of diamonds. Diamonds are a type of mineral made up of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. They are known for their high refractive index, meaning they bend light and create a beautiful sparkle. Diamonds are also known for their hardness, ranking as a 10 on the Mohs scale, which means they are the hardest naturally occurring substance on earth. Additionally, diamonds have high thermal conductivity, meaning they can disperse heat quickly.
Misconceptions about diamonds include that they are indestructible and unscratchable. While diamonds are hard, they are not unbreakable or scratch-resistant, and can still be damaged with enough force.
Can Diamonds Break?
While diamonds are extremely hard, they can break under certain conditions. Factors that can cause diamonds to break include excessive pressure, thermal shock, and damage to their internal structure. Types of diamond fractures include cleavage fractures, feather fractures, and radial fractures.
Real-life examples of diamond breaking include famous incidents such as the Koh-i-Noor diamond breaking during a polishing attempt and the Cullinan diamond breaking during its initial extraction from the ground. To minimize the risk of diamond breakage, it is important to take proper care of your diamond and avoid exposing it to extreme conditions.
Caring for Your Diamond
To ensure your diamond stays in top condition and prevent breakage, it is important to take proper care of it. Tips for diamond maintenance include avoiding harsh chemicals, not wearing your diamond during physical activity, and avoiding contact with other hard materials. Cleaning your diamond regularly with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap can also help prevent damage. Proper storage, such as keeping your diamond in a padded jewelry box, can also prevent damage.
Regular diamond inspections by a professional jeweler can also help prevent breakage by detecting any damage early on.
Buying a Diamond
When buying a diamond, it is important to evaluate the diamond’s quality and ensure it is properly mounted. Evaluating diamond quality involves looking at the four Cs: carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. Asking a jeweler questions about the diamond’s characteristics and ensuring it is ethically sourced can also provide peace of mind when making a purchase.
Victoria Marie Jewelers, a trusted source for high-quality diamonds and fine jewelry, can help you find the perfect diamond and ensure it is mounted securely. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Victoria Marie Jewelers is committed to providing exceptional service and expertise to their customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while diamonds are known for their hardness, they can still break under certain conditions. Understanding how to properly care for your diamond and prevent breakage is important for those who own or plan to own a diamond. By following the tips provided in this blog, you can ensure your diamond stays beautiful and intact for years to come. For all your diamond and fine jewelry needs, visit Victoria Marie Jewelers at https://www.vmjewelers.com/. Don’t forget to share this blog with others to help spread the word about diamond breakage and care. And if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to make an appointment or contact Victoria Marie Jewelers.
