Diamond are one of the most beautiful things that we human beings have come to know about. That is why people worry less about scratching or damaging the stone. And are potentially more concerned about losing or getting their jewelry stolen.
Such beliefs have their place just because diamonds top the scales of hardness and are the most durable gemstone that is present to date. The hardness of these stones can be described in an endless number of ways. But commonly people follow up a certain hardness measuring scale which goes by the name of Mohs scale. One more thing that is to be said here is that. The color of a diamond does not affect its degree of hardness. That means; if the degree of hardness is taken into account, every diamond is measured the same be it yellow or white or any other color.
The Mohs scale was designed in the 19th century by Friedrich Mohs to measure and scale natural minerals and gems according to their degree of hardness. The scale which is popular now generally has 10 common minerals. Known to mankind listed based on their hardness in increasing order. Each of the former minerals can scratch the later one. Which is not possible vice versa, therefore, proving the fact of the reliability of the scale. On this scale, diamond holds the topmost position rating a hardness number of 1500. It is a huge number in terms of the later mineral listed in the chart, i.e. corundum showcasing a hardness number of 400.
By the above example, one must have got a pretty clear idea. Why diamonds are so famous for their durability and hardness.
The Misconception
The hardness of an element does not mean that it is immune to any form of damage. This is hence a common misconception that people take the phrase “Diamonds are forever” literally.
Though diamonds are extremely durable and hard, they showcase brittleness. Which means that they are prone to cracks or chipping or injury if they are hit on their “soft” spots.
This is also why before the machine and computer-aided cutting technologies came to existence. The cutters used to study and evaluate the stones for weeks and months before finally cutting and polishing the stone. Because it is possible to destroy the whole stone if one wrong cut or hit is given to it in the wrong part.
A classic example of this is the story of the largest natural pink diamond; that can be seen today in the Smithsonian museum alongside other rare gems and stones. This diamond was of immeasurable worth and was produced in Rio Tinto’s Argyle diamond mine. But the stone lost its worth and glory simply. Because of a wrong done by the in-house polisher which made the stone to shatter from within.
Tips To Follow To Refrain Scratches to a Diamond
Now, we are not at all telling one to worry all the time about how to keep the stone safe as if such is done. And then there is no point in wearing diamond pieces out in the active world. But, still one should keep in mind, that is even the hardest material has its point of breakage.
Below we suggest some basic regulations which if followed would be of much help in caring for the precious diamonds:
- Diamonds should not at all be stored along with other jewelry and diamonds. If such is done, the stones and gems will keep scratching and rubbing each other endlessly.
- One should always keep their diamonds in check. What we mean is that he or she must book an appointment with their respective jeweler. To make sure that their diamond is doing well, and whether it is in good shape or not.
- Though a simple enough point but still a point worth describing; one should not wear diamonds. While they perform and physically intensive tasks as they might hit their diamonds the wrong way and chip or scratch the stone.
Diamond Care
With the above-mentioned tips, we are also including some more suggestions and advice which if followed would be worthwhile and prove great in caring for the diamonds.
- Diamonds have an extensive property to attract grease, oil, and specks of dirt. It is highly recommended to wash and polish them at regular intervals to maintain their luster and shine. Also one should avoid excessive contact of the stone with the skin as our skin has layers of natural oils that may accumulate on the stone.
- It is highly recommended to re-size the engagement rings or other diamond rings at regular intervals. If such is not, it could result in sliding of the ring from the finger and henceforth scratching of the diamond stone or even worse, i.e. potentially loss of the stone.
- Diamonds should be washed using proper gemstone washing solutions and mixtures. It is recommended that one should never use toothpaste to wash a diamond.
- One must do proper research before they purchase a certain diamond. Cuts that expose the stone to hard surfaces and things should be avoided at all costs. Proper choice of girdles, ring setting, and even facets are necessary to ensure the longevity of the stone.
- When polishing the stones at home, it is recommended to use toothbrushes which have soft bristles and also one should be extra careful while cleaning the prongs as vigorous rubbing of the prongs would ultimately result in degradation of the prongs and the stone may become loose and fall.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Easily Scratched?
This is one of the common myths associated with the lab-grown diamond or artificially produced diamonds. The answer is, No. Lab-grown or artificially produced diamonds are as much “real” as their naturally formed counterparts. They, tend to be even more superior, flawless, and durable than the natural ones in terms of their physical and chemical and visual properties simply because they are produced under expert jurisdiction and scrutinization.
Thus, the above-asked question is nothing but a myth and a false conception.
Yes, indeed, the diamonds are not forever. But if taken proper care and precaution they are durable enough to stay with us for a long period to come. One must have heard the term, “Precaution is better than cure”. They simply have to apply the said phrase in this case of diamond care and protection. That’s all.