Yes, diamonds can break. While they are the hardest natural material on Earth, they can still chip, fracture, or crack under the right circumstances—especially when struck at a weak point or edge.
Diamonds symbolize strength and forever—but even these legendary gemstones aren’t invincible. Whether you're designing a custom ring or caring for a cherished heirloom, it’s important to understand what diamond durability really means. Let’s break it down.
Are Diamonds Unbreakable?
Diamonds are highly scratch-resistant but not indestructible. Their hardness protects against surface wear, but their internal structure makes them vulnerable to impact damage along cleavage planes.
That’s right—diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they’re exceptionally resistant to scratching. But hardness isn’t the same as toughness. Like a sheet of glass, diamonds can still break under the right pressure. Especially if they’re hit in just the wrong spot.
What Causes a Diamond to Break?
Even the most brilliant stone has its vulnerabilities. Here's what typically leads to diamond breakage:
Sharp Impact or Force
A sudden blow—like dropping your ring onto tile or hitting it against a hard surface—can cause a chip or fracture, especially on the girdle or pointed edges.
Existing Inclusions or Flaws
Natural inclusions (tiny internal imperfections) can weaken the diamond's structure. If an impact lands near these flaws, the risk of cracking increases.
Sudden Temperature Change (Thermal Shock)
Exposing a diamond to extreme heat followed by rapid cooling can cause internal stress. It’s rare, but it can happen—especially if the stone has inclusions or has been previously treated.
Most diamond breaks occur due to a direct impact, especially if the stone has natural inclusions or thin, exposed edges.
How to Prevent Diamond Damage
Taking care of your diamond doesn’t mean treating it like glass—it means being smart about when and how you wear it.
Wear Considerations
Avoid wearing your ring during activities involving impact or pressure. Take it off during sports, gardening, cleaning, or anything involving tools or force.
Storage & Travel Tips
Use secure settings and store it in padded containers to reduce damage risk. A soft pouch or fabric-lined box is best, especially during travel.
Protective Settings
Opt for bezel settings, low-profile designs, or thick prongs to shield vulnerable edges—especially for fancy shapes like marquise, princess, or pear.
Can a Broken Diamond Be Repaired?
Yes, depending on the damage. Minor chips can often be polished out, while more significant fractures may require re-cutting or replacing the stone.
In some cases, a damaged diamond can be repurposed into a pendant or smaller accent stone. At Acredo, we’ll walk you through every option and help you make the most of your diamond—even if it's taken a hit.
How Common Is Diamond Breakage?
While rare, diamond damage is more common than people think—especially in everyday jewelry worn during sports, cleaning, or heavy work without precautions.
Many clients are surprised to learn how often we see chipped girdles or damaged corners. The good news? With the right habits and protective settings, most of this damage is entirely preventable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a diamond chip from dropping it?
Yes, especially if it lands on a hard surface or hits a sharp object.
Do lab-grown diamonds break more easily?
No—they have the same hardness and structural properties as natural diamonds.
Will insurance cover a chipped diamond?
Most jewelry insurance policies do cover accidental damage like chips or cracks. Be sure to review your policy or speak with your provider to confirm coverage.
Acredo’s Custom Approach to Diamond Durability
At Acredo, we design handcrafted engagement rings and fine jewelry with protective features—custom-fit settings, sturdy metal choices, and expert craftsmanship that prioritize beauty and longevity.
We offer bezel-set and low-profile styles, especially for active lifestyles. Our design consultations focus on your daily habits so your jewelry isn't just beautiful—it’s built to last. Whether you’re creating a new ring or upgrading an existing one, we help you protect what matters most.
Looking to explore personalized settings that enhance durability? Schedule a design consultation to get started.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Diamond for a Lifetime
Understanding how and why diamonds can break empowers you to wear yours confidently. With the right setting and care, your diamond can shine for generations.
At Acredo, we believe every diamond should be both stunning and secure. Our custom approach ensures your fine jewelry is made with precision, purpose, and protection.
Ready to design your perfect ring or need advice on caring for your diamond? Contact us today or visit one of our studios for a personalized consultation.