Why Chipping or Cracking a Diamond is More Common than You Think

There’s a common misconception regarding diamonds, and we hear it all the time: that diamonds are indestructible.

It’s true that diamond is the hardest known mineral on earth, but it’s actually relatively brittle and can chip or fracture if not handled with care.

The durability of a gemstone describes its ability to withstand wear, heat, and chemicals. There are really three subcategories that make up that larger ‘durability’ category.

The first is hardness, how a stone handles things like scratches and abrasions.

The next is toughness, or how a stone may break or chip in different circumstances.

The final subcategory is stability, involving chemicals and thermal shock.

So, while a diamond is very stable and hard, it’s only somewhat tough.

That’s how hitting a diamond at just the right angle, through normal every day wear, can still result in damage.

Now, a diamond is still by far the best gem to wear on a daily basis in terms of durability. A ruby and sapphire offer somewhat durable options as well, though not to the same extent as a diamond.

An emerald, by contrast, is softer and easier to damage over the course of daily activity, particularly when worn as a ring.

Diamonds and other gems are most often damaged when they are set high, relative to your finger, or when they are set in things like eternity bands that feature stones going all the way around a ring.

Even if an eternity band is channel set, it’s possible to hit a diamond or gem just right, leaving it fractured. Once a stone is damaged, it can easily fall out, even if the metal around it is fully in tact.

We always recommend that you not wear jewelry while excising, playing sports, or working around the house. This can limit the risk of impact damage.

We also recommend having your jewelry professionally inspected once or twice a year. We always offer free inspection and while-you-wait cleaning to ensure your pieces are in good shape, and do not require any maintenance.

It’s also a good idea to ensure your jewelry is insured, with up to date appraisals. If your diamond is damaged, many insurance companies will cover the cost of the repair.

If you need an updated appraisal, or would like a free estimate to have your jewelry repaired by our team of Goldsmiths, visit or contact us today!