Diamonds are often referred to as indestructible, a word that brings comfort when selecting them for engagement rings, heirlooms, and everyday fine jewelry. But even the hardest substance on Earth isn’t completely immune to damage.
So, can diamonds break? The short answer: yes, under specific circumstances. Let’s take a closer look at why that is, and what you can do to protect your treasured pieces.
Understanding Diamond Hardness vs. Toughness
Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they are highly resistant to scratching. In fact, only another diamond can scratch a diamond. But hardness is not the same as toughness.
- Hardness refers to a stone’s ability to resist scratching.
- Toughness refers to how well it resists breaking or chipping.
While diamonds are extremely hard, they are not the toughest gemstone. Their atomic structure creates what’s known as cleavage planes—directions in the crystal where the bonding between atoms is weaker. A sharp blow at the right angle can cause a diamond to chip, or in rare cases, break.
How Do Diamonds Break?
Although it’s rare, here are a few situations where diamond breakage can occur:
1. Impact or Sudden Force
If a diamond is hit against a hard surface—like a granite countertop or tile floor—it can chip, especially along an edge or pointed corner (like in a princess or marquise cut).
2. Poor Setting or Loose Mount
If a diamond isn’t securely set, it may move, increasing the risk of damage from everyday wear.
- Tip: Ask about our Custom Ring Balance and Setting Adjustments to ensure your diamond is secure and perfectly positioned for long-term wear.
3. Extreme Pressure or Heat
While diamonds are stable at high temperatures, direct exposure to high heat during unskilled jewelry repairs or accidents can weaken the setting or cause inclusions to expand.
Most Vulnerable Diamond Shapes
Certain fancy-shaped diamonds are more prone to damage than others. This doesn’t mean you should avoid them—just that they may need extra care or protection from a thoughtful setting.
- Princess Cut: Sharp corners can be prone to chipping.
- Pear and Marquise Cuts: Their pointed tips are structurally more delicate.
- Emerald Cut: Large, open tables make inclusions more visible and edges more vulnerable.
Consider protective settings like bezel settings or V-prongs for added security on pointed or angular stones.
Explore our collection of Securely Set Diamond Engagement Rings in various protective styles.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Easier to Break?
No—lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical and physical structure as natural diamonds. That means they offer the same brilliance, durability, and susceptibility to chipping or breaking under the same circumstances.
View our selection of Lab-Grown Diamonds with GIA-equivalent certifications.
What to Do If a Diamond Chips or Breaks
It’s not the end of the world if your diamond suffers damage—especially if you’ve partnered with a jeweler you trust.
Here’s what you can do:
- Assessment: Bring your ring in for a professional evaluation.
- Repair or Recutting: Minor chips can sometimes be polished or recut.
- Resetting: Damaged diamonds can be reset into a more protective design or incorporated into a new piece.
- Replacement: If the stone is insured, your policy may help with replacement.
Schedule a consultation through our Appointment Booking Page to assess or repair your diamond jewelry.
Protecting Your Diamond Investment
To keep your diamonds in top shape, follow these care tips:
- Remove your ring during heavy physical activity, cleaning, or gardening.
- Store your diamonds separately to prevent them from scratching each other or other pieces.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings and inspections to check for loose prongs or mounting issues.
- Consider adding a jewelry insurance policy to cover accidental damage or loss.
At Gold Connection Jewelers, we offer in-house inspections and repairs, giving you peace of mind that your ring is always in good hands.
Why Choose Gold Connection Jewelers?
We’re more than a jewelry store—we’re a family-run business with roots in the community and decades of experience. Whether you’re purchasing a new engagement ring or need help restoring a beloved heirloom, we treat every piece with care and every customer like family.
Visit us in-store or contact us online to learn more about our services, custom work, and repair capabilities.
Final Thoughts: Can Diamonds Break?
Yes, diamonds can break—but it’s rare. With proper care, the right setting, and routine maintenance, your diamond can remain as stunning as the day you received it. And if you ever do run into an issue, know that Gold Connection Jewelers is here to help every step of the way.
Let us help you choose, care for, or restore a diamond that will last for generations.
Book an appointment with our expert team today.