Why are diamonds hard?
Diamonds score 10/10 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest of the naturally occurring minerals. But why are diamonds so hard? It's all to do with the arrangement of their atoms. Our guide explains exactly why diamonds are so hard, and why it matters when it comes to jewellery.
Diamond hardness: The scientific reason
Diamonds are made from carbon and are hard because of the way carbon atoms bond together. Each carbon atom forms four strong covalent bonds with four neighbouring carbon atoms, in a 3D pyramid shape. This pattern repeats in every direction, creating a single, continuous network of atoms.
This structure makes diamonds so strong because covalent bonds are inherently very strong. Each bond requires a great deal of energy to break, and each atom has four of them. The pyramid arrangement also resists pressure well, as the structure holds firm without slipping.
Diamond hardness and durability
Beyond their beauty, one of the main reasons diamonds have always been treasured in jewellery is their hardness and durability. Scoring 10/10 on the Mohs scale means, in practical terms, that almost nothing can scratch them.
A diamond ring worn daily will not be scratched by normal encounters such as bumping against keys or scraping against a surface. It will always keep its polish and sharp faceted edges, whereas softer stones will gradually dull.
One downside of this hardness is that diamonds are relatively brittle, which is why choosing a protective setting is important, particularly if you lead an active lifestyle or opt for a fancy-shaped diamond.
Most durable diamond cuts
The most durable diamond cuts are
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Round
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Oval
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Cushion
The curved shape of the round brilliant, oval, and cushion cut diamonds means there are no sharp corners, so any pressure or stress is distributed evenly, making them less prone to chipping.
Most secure settings
The setting is the most important element to consider for everyday wear. The most secure settings are:
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Bezel setting
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Channel setting
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6 prong setting
How can Shining Diamonds help?
Looking for durable jewellery that can be worn daily and passed down through generations? Our knowledgeable team at Shining Diamonds are on hand to advise on the most durable pieces. Book an appointment for tailored advice today.
