Diamonds are known as “the hardest substance known to man”, but they can still chip and break. The durability or the hardness, toughness, and stability of the diamond, tells the entire story.

Hardness is the resistance to scratching. Because a diamond is the hardest substance, only another diamond can scratch a diamond…right? So, if you’re lucky enough to have more than one, keep them away from each other!

Toughness is the resistance to breaking, chipping and cracking. It can be a surprise to you if your jeweler tells you that your diamond is chipped. But, it’s quite common around the girdle, which is thin rim around a diamond. A strong blow in just the right location can cause a diamond to chip or enlarge an existing small chip. Be aware of your surroundings and what you’re doing when you wear a diamond. So limit the amount of sports, yard work and manual labor while wearing your diamond ring.

Stability is the resistance to temperature changes and chemicals. Diamond scores high on this one; not much will phase it. However, the mounting may have a different tolerance. It’s okay to clean the diamond using an ultrasonic or steam cleaner. It won’t hurt metal. However, the chemicals in a hot tub or in household cleaners may affect the nickel in your white gold.

Stop in to speak with any of our jewelry experts to understand more about any unique jewelry care questions you may have.