What Damages Diamonds Over Time (And What Doesn’t)

Diamonds have been celebrated for centuries as symbols of strength, luxury, and love. But despite their reputation as one of the hardest materials on Earth, these precious stones aren’t invincible. As diamond owners, it’s crucial to understand what can damage diamonds over time and how to protect them. In this blog post, we’ll dive into common diamond care mistakes, explain what truly damages diamonds, and offer expert insights on protecting your investment.

The Hard Truth About Diamonds: Not Indestructible, Just Hard

While diamonds are renowned for their remarkable hardness, rating 10 on the Mohs scale, they aren’t completely impervious to damage. This myth often leads people to make careless mistakes when it comes to diamond care, inadvertently causing long-term harm. Picture this: You’ve spent thousands of dollars on a diamond ring, but over time, it begins to lose its sparkle, and you notice tiny chips and scratches. What went wrong?

In this article, we will not only explore what damage diamonds but also provide you with the tools and knowledge to prevent common diamond protection mistakes. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to keep your diamonds looking brilliant for generations to come.

What Actually Damages Diamonds?

Can Diamonds Get Scratched?

Yes, diamonds can get scratched, but only by materials that are harder than themselves. While diamonds are the hardest known material, they can still be scratched by other diamonds. So, when you wear your diamond jewelry alongside other diamond jewelry, the risk of scratching increases. For example, a diamond ring rubbing against a diamond bracelet or another ring may cause surface wear.

Pro Tip: To prevent scratches, store your damage diamonds separately in a padded jewelry box or use individual pouches. Avoid placing multiple diamond pieces in a single jewelry box compartment.

Can Diamonds Chip or Break?

Unlike scratches, chipping or breaking a diamond is more likely. Diamonds are tough, but they are also brittle at their crystal edges and points. A direct blow, such as dropping your diamond ring or hitting it against a hard surface like concrete, can cause it to chip. Even the hardest diamond can break if subjected to high-impact force.

Case Study: A woman wearing a 3-carat diamond engagement ring accidentally bumped it against a doorframe while moving furniture. The result? A small but noticeable chip in the diamond’s corner. While the damage wasn’t catastrophic, it reduced the ring’s overall value and appeal.

Does Heat Affect Diamonds?

While diamonds can withstand high temperatures, exposure to extreme heat, especially sudden temperature changes, can cause them to crack. This is particularly true for diamonds set in rings, as the metal surrounding them expands and contracts at a different rate than the diamond itself. Additionally, diamond jewelry can be at risk when exposed to the heat of a blowtorch or even during intense cooking.

Pro Tip: Always remove your diamond jewelry before engaging in any high-heat activities like cooking, working with tools, or visiting a sauna. This simple precaution can save your investment.

Can Chemicals Damage Diamonds?

Diamonds are generally resistant to most chemicals. However, they can be affected by exposure to certain harsh chemicals like chlorine, bleach, and acids. These chemicals can cause damage to the metal setting surrounding the diamond, even if they don’t harm the diamond itself. Over time, exposure to chemicals can dull the diamond’s sparkle and weaken its setting.

Case Study: A woman who frequently used bleach to clean around the house noticed her diamond ring had become loose. Over time, the metal was corroded by the bleach, causing the prongs to weaken and loosen the diamond.

What About Everyday Activities?

Damage diamonds may be durable, but everyday activities like washing dishes, cleaning, and exercising can expose your diamonds to risks. For example, washing your hands while wearing a diamond ring can introduce soap and dirt to the stone, making it look dull. Similarly, wearing a diamond while exercising could expose it to impacts that might cause tiny chips or scratches.

Pro Tip: Remove your diamond jewelry when cleaning, exercising, or engaging in any activities where the stone may be exposed to potential impacts or dirt buildup.

What Doesn’t Damage Diamonds?

Are Diamonds Safe From Water Damage?

One of the most common misconceptions is that diamonds can be damaged by water. The truth is, diamonds are highly resistant to water damage. They won’t crack or become dull from being submerged in water. However, be cautious of the metal setting around the diamond, as some metals can tarnish over time when exposed to water.

Pro Tip: While your diamond is safe in water, avoid wearing diamond jewelry while swimming in chlorinated water, as chemicals like chlorine can affect the metal setting. It’s best to remove jewelry before taking a dip in pools or hot tubs.

Are Damage diamonds Safe From Everyday Dirt?

Dirt won’t damages diamonds, but it can make them look less brilliant. Dust, oils from your skin, and lotions can accumulate on the surface of the stone, causing it to lose its sparkle. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the diamond’s brilliance.

Pro Tip: Clean your diamond jewelry regularly using a mild soap solution and a soft brush. This will help maintain its shine without causing any damage to the stone.

Can Ultraviolet (UV) Light Damage Diamonds?

No, diamonds are not affected by UV light in the way that some gemstones (such as opals) are. Diamonds do not fade or lose color from prolonged UV exposure. In fact, UV light often enhances a diamond’s brilliance and makes it sparkle more, especially when viewed in natural sunlight.

Common Diamond Care Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Not Cleaning Your Diamond Regularly

Even though damage diamonds are durable, neglecting their maintenance can lead to dullness and the accumulation of dirt. As mentioned earlier, soap, oils, and lotions can make a diamond lose its shine.

Solution: Make cleaning a regular habit. Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to clean your diamond jewelry. Take your ring to a professional jeweler for deep cleaning every six months.

Mistake #2: Not Protecting the Metal Setting

The metal setting around your diamond is just as important as the diamond itself. Over time, the prongs and settings can weaken, increasing the risk of losing your stone. This often happens when the metal corrodes or gets bent out of shape.

Solution: Periodically check your diamond setting. If you notice that the prongs are loose or bent, take it to a jeweler immediately for repairs. This will ensure your diamond stays securely in place.

Mistake #3: Storing Your Diamonds Incorrectly

Storing your damage diamonds in a drawer without protection or in a place where they can rub against other jewelry pieces is a common mistake.

Solution: Store diamonds separately from other jewelry. Use a padded jewelry box or individual pouches for each piece to prevent scratches or damage.

Expert Insights on Diamond Protection

Expert Tip: “While diamonds themselves are durable, it’s the metal settings and the care you give them that often determine their longevity. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and taking off your jewelry during heavy-duty tasks are the best ways to protect your diamond investment for a lifetime.” — Linda Hill, Gemologist and Jewelry Expert.

Conclusion

Damages diamonds may be the hardest material on Earth, but they still require proper care and attention. By understanding what damage diamonds over time and what doesn’t, you can take steps to protect your investment. From avoiding scratches and chips to protecting the setting, proper care ensures your diamond remains as beautiful as the day you bought it.

Remember, damage diamonds are made to last forever—but only if you care for them properly. By avoiding common mistakes like exposing your diamond to harsh chemicals or neglecting to clean it regularly, you can keep your diamonds shining for generations to come.

FAQ: 

1. Can diamonds be damaged?
Yes, even though diamonds are extremely hard, they can still be damaged. High-impact blows, dropping them on hard surfaces, or improper handling can cause chips or cracks. Proper care is essential to prevent damages diamonds.

2. What actually damages diamonds?
Damages diamonds can occur from scratches (by other diamonds), chips or breaks from hard impacts, exposure to extreme heat, and contact with harsh chemicals that affect the metal setting. Everyday activities like cleaning or exercising can also pose minor risks.

3. Are diamonds safe in water or sunlight?
Diamonds themselves are resistant to water and UV light and won’t be damaged by swimming or sun exposure. However, the metal setting may corrode or tarnish over time, so caution is still advised.

4. Can chemicals damages diamonds?
While diamonds are chemically resistant, certain harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or strong acids can weaken the metal setting and indirectly affect the stone. Always remove your diamond jewelry when using such substances to prevent damages diamonds.

5.How do I maintain my diamond’s sparkle?

Regular cleaning, proper storage, and cautious handling prevent damages diamonds and keep your diamond looking brilliant for years. Professional check-ups every 6–12 months are also recommended.