What can crack a diamond?
A diamond can be cracked by a powerful blow or intrinsic flaw, and its vulnerable parts, such as the girdle, are more prone to chipping or breaking. The presence of a natural inclusion or weak region in the diamond’s lattice structure can also make it more susceptible to cracking, and even a relatively weak blow from a metal hammer can be enough to cause damage.
Understanding Diamond Vulnerability
Diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness, but they are not indestructible. Despite their rigidity, diamonds can be chipped, broken, or cracked under certain conditions.
Intrinsic Flaws and Vulnerable Parts
The girdle of a diamond, which is its outermost edge, is particularly vulnerable to chipping or breaking. Additionally, the presence of natural inclusions or weak regions in the diamond’s lattice structure can make it more prone to cracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following FAQs provide more information about what can crack a diamond and how to care for these precious stones.
- What causes a diamond to crack?: A diamond can crack due to the presence of an intrinsic flaw or natural inclusion, which can make it vulnerable to breakage.
- What object can break a diamond?: A metal hammer or any other hard object can break a diamond if it is struck with sufficient force.
- What material can scratch a diamond?: Only another diamond can scratch a diamond, as it is the hardest substance known.
- Can a prong crack a diamond?: Yes, a prong can crack a diamond if it exerts too much pressure on the stone, particularly around the girdle.
- How common is it for a diamond to crack?: It is extremely rare for a diamond to crack, but it can happen if the diamond is subjected to a powerful blow or has a pre-existing flaw.
- How much force does it take to break a diamond?: It takes a significant amount of force, equivalent to around 6,000 tonnes or the weight of 100 trucks, to break a diamond.
- Can you accidentally scratch a diamond?: It is highly unlikely to accidentally scratch a diamond, as it is extremely hard and resistant to scratches.
- Can a razor scratch a diamond?: No, a razor cannot scratch a diamond, as it is not hard enough to damage the stone.
- What can diamond not cut through?: Diamond cannot cut through ferrous metals like steel or cast iron, as they are too hard and dense.
- Can water break a diamond?: Yes, a powerful water jet can break a diamond if it is strong enough, but this is extremely rare.
- How fragile is a diamond?: Despite its hardness, a diamond is actually quite fragile and can be easily broken if subjected to a powerful blow.
- Is a broken diamond worth anything?: Yes, a broken diamond can still be valuable, although its value may be reduced depending on the extent of the damage.
- What causes a diamond to lose its sparkle?: A diamond can lose its sparkle due to the accumulation of oils, lotions, and soaps on its surface, which can create a filmy layer.
- Do real diamonds sink or float?: Real diamonds sink to the bottom of a glass of water due to their high density, while fake diamonds may float or sink slowly.
- Can a toothbrush scratch a diamond?: No, a toothbrush cannot scratch a diamond, as it is too soft to damage the stone.