Can Diamonds Chip or Crack? The Truth Buyers Don’t Know

Diamond are known as the hardest natural substance on Earth, but does that mean they are invincible? Can diamonds chip or crack? The truth might surprise you. While diamonds are renowned for their durability and beauty, they are not completely impervious to damage.

For those who have invested in or are considering buying a diamond—whether it’s an engagement ring, a luxury piece, or a family heirloom—the thought of a chip or crack might cause some anxiety. After all, we’ve all heard that diamonds are “forever,” right? The good news is, understanding the science behind diamond durability and the myths surrounding it will help you make a more informed decision when purchasing or maintaining your precious gem.

In this post, we’ll break down the truth about diamond cracking myths, explore their durability facts, and offer you expert insights on how to protect your investment.

Can Diamond Chip or Crack Easily?

While diamonds are incredibly hard, they are not immune to damage. In fact, diamonds can chip or crack under certain conditions. Their hardness (10 on the Mohs scale) makes them resistant to scratching, but hardness and toughness are not the same thing. Hardness measures a material’s ability to resist scratching, while toughness refers to its resistance to breaking or chipping under pressure.

A diamond’s crystal structure is what gives it both its brilliance and vulnerability. Diamonds are made of carbon atoms arranged in a very specific structure that makes them very hard. However, this same structure also means diamonds are brittle along certain crystal planes, making them susceptible to chipping or cracking if struck with enough force.

Real-World Example:

A jeweler recounts a case where a customer accidentally dropped a diamond engagement ring while washing dishes. The stone was unharmed, but when the customer’s toddler tossed a ball into the ring, it struck the diamond’s corner at an awkward angle and caused a small chip.

Pro Tip:

To prevent chipping, avoid exposing diamonds to hard impacts, such as during physical activities or while working with tools.

What Causes Diamond Chip?

While diamonds are hard, they can chip if exposed to force or impact in certain ways. A few factors that increase the risk of diamond chipping include:

1. Sharp Impacts: Dropping a diamond, hitting it with a hammer, or striking it against a hard surface can cause chips, especially if it strikes at the wrong angle.
2. Setting Weakness: The way a diamond is set in a piece of jewelry can also influence its vulnerability to chipping. A diamond with a prong setting, especially in the corners, is more likely to chip if struck.
3. Environmental Factors: Extreme temperature changes, such as exposing a diamond to sudden heat or cold, can weaken its structure and lead to cracks.
4. Flaws in the Diamond: Internal inclusions or structural weaknesses can make a diamond more likely to chip or crack. For example, diamonds with inclusions near the edges or corners are more prone to damage.

Real-World Example:

A customer once shared a story about a diamond engagement ring with a flaw in its corner. Although the stone had been appraised and certified as high quality, the flaw made the diamond more susceptible to chipping when it was accidentally bumped against a counter.

Are Diamonds More Likely to Chip than Other Gemstones?

When compared to other popular gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, diamond chip are generally tougher. However, because diamonds are more brittle along their cleavage planes, they can be more prone to chipping when exposed to specific types of impact, especially when compared to harder gemstones like sapphires or rubies, which tend to have more “toughness.”

Sapphires, for instance, are also very hard (9 on the Mohs scale) but are tougher due to their crystal structure. In contrast, diamonds are more likely to crack if exposed to a sharp impact along certain angles, making them more vulnerable to damage in certain circumstances.

Pro Tip:

If you’re looking for a gemstone that combines both hardness and toughness, consider alternatives like sapphires or rubies. While they may not be as “forever” as diamonds, they’re often more practical for daily wear.

Can Diamond Engagement Rings Chip?

Yes, diamond engagement rings can chip, especially if the diamond has sharp corners or is poorly set. Most engagement rings feature diamonds with pointed or beveled edges that are more susceptible to impact damage. If the ring is frequently exposed to rough conditions—such as during sports or while performing manual labor the diamond’s risk of chipping increases.

Real-World Example:

A jeweler recalls a case where a client’s engagement ring with a square princess-cut diamond had to be reset after the diamond chipped during routine daily activities. The client had been wearing the ring during heavy gardening, which exposed the diamond to dirt and stones.

Pro Tip:

Choose a diamond shape with rounded edges, like a round brilliant cut, to reduce the chances of chipping. This cut is less prone to damage since the edges are less exposed than other cuts like princess or emerald.

How Can You Protect Your Diamond from Chipping?

While it’s impossible to make a  completely diamond chip-proof, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage. Here are some actionable tips to protect your diamond:

1. Avoid Physical Impact: Be mindful of the situations where your diamond might come into contact with hard surfaces, such as during sports or when handling tools. It’s best to remove the ring during activities that could cause rough contact.
2. Choose a Protective Setting: Opt for a setting that protects the corners or edges of the diamond. A bezel setting, for example, wraps around the diamond, offering better protection against potential chips.
3. Regular Inspections: Have your diamond checked by a jeweler regularly. This ensures that any potential weaknesses in the setting or diamond are addressed before they lead to a chip or crack.
4. Store Properly: When you’re not wearing your diamond, store it in a soft cloth or a jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent it from coming into contact with other jewelry or hard surfaces.

Can Diamonds Crack Under Pressure?

Yes, diamonds can crack under excessive pressure, particularly when the pressure is applied along the diamond’s cleavage planes. Cleavage refers to the way a diamond’s crystal structure is aligned, which makes it more susceptible to breaking when force is applied in certain directions.

For example, if a diamond is placed under intense pressure, such as being squeezed by a clamp or heavy machinery, it could crack. However, this type of scenario is extremely rare outside of industrial settings.

Pro Tip:

While everyday wear doesn’t generally put enough pressure on a diamond to crack it, removing the stone before engaging in high-risk activities like using heavy machinery is a smart precaution.

Diamond Durability Myths You Should Know

There are a few common myths surrounding diamond durability that need to be debunked. Here are some of the most prevalent:

Myth 1: “Diamonds can never chip or crack.”

As we’ve seen, this isn’t true. While diamonds are incredibly durable, they are still susceptible to damage if subjected to the right conditions.

Myth 2: “All diamonds are equally durable.”

Not all diamonds are created equal. A diamond with internal flaws or an exposed edge may be more likely to chip than one with no inclusions and a more rounded shape.

Myth 3: “Diamonds are unbreakable.”

While diamonds are the hardest material, they can break under certain conditions, especially when struck with force along their cleavage planes.

Conclusion:

Protecting Your Diamond for Lifelong Durability

Diamonds chip are indeed remarkable for their hardness, but they are not invincible. Understanding the factors that cause diamonds to chip or crack can help you make an informed decision when purchasing or caring for your diamond. By choosing the right setting, being mindful of your activities, and taking good care of your stone, you can preserve its beauty for years to come.

If you’re in the market for a diamond, it’s essential to weigh its durability and select one that’s perfect for your lifestyle. If you’ve already invested in a diamond, remember these tips for protection and maintenance, and your diamond will continue to shine as bright as the day you bought it.

FAQ

1. Can a diamonds chip crack if dropped?
   Yes, diamonds chip can crack if dropped on a hard surface, especially if they hit at an angle that impacts their cleavage planes.
2. What is the most durable diamond shape?
   Round diamonds chip are the most durable, as their rounded edges are less susceptible to chipping compared to shapes with sharp corners like princess cuts.
3. Are diamonds unbreakable?
   While diamonds chip are the hardest material, they are not unbreakable. They can break under extreme force applied in the wrong direction, such as along their cleavage planes.
4. How can I tell if a diamonds chip has a crack?
   You should have your diamond inspected by a professional jeweler regularly. Cracks may not always be visible to the naked eye, especially if they’re small or internal.
5. What is the best setting to protect my diamonds chip?
   A bezel setting is a good choice for protection, as it encircles the diamond, shielding it from external impacts.
6. Can a diamonds chip from normal wear and tear?
   While unlikely, it is possible for a diamond chip from everyday activities, especially if the diamond has sharp edges or internal inclusions.
7. How can i repaire a diamonds chip ?
   Small chips can often be polished or reshaped by a professional jeweler without affecting the overall size of the diamond. In more severe cases, the diamond may need to be recut.