The Durability of Diamonds
A diamond gemstone is the hardest natural material on the planet. It is for this reason that diamonds or diamond dust is used in the cutting or shaping of other diamonds. Many gems are very hard indeed but diamond is at the top of the league.
There is a special scale which is used to measure the hardness of substances which is known as Mohs scale or test, so named after its inventor Friedrich Mohs in 1822. This scale ranges from the hardest factor at 10 to the softest at 1. The sectional divides on the scale or not equal and depend upon various factors. For a substance to fit into hardness 9-10 equates to a much higher level of hardness than 8-9. Talc is deemed to be the softest of substances measuring 1, which means it can easily be scratched with a fingernail.
The harder the substance, damage such as scratching or chipping is far less likely. Therefore it makes sense that the hardest minerals and gems are used for jewelry as their ability to take rough handling, heat, chemicals or being knocked or dropped make them ideal for the job.
A common mineral such as quartz, which is a mixture of citrine and amethyst, will fit the scale at 7+ whilst red rubies and blue sapphires are almost as hard as the diamond at a scale of 9.
Diamonds are wrongly perceived, as they are so hard, to be totally indestructible. This is a fallacy as a diamond hit by a well aimed blow from a hammer would very likely shatter into pieces along its crystalline lines.
Diamonds tend to be cut with a rounded edge and corners to prevent them scratching, chipping or gouging everything they encounter, including skin! There are a few exceptions such as the ‘princess’ cut which has comparatively pronounced, but not sharp, corner edges.
When you are not wearing your diamond, it should ideally be stored in a velvety bag, box or case. It is important to get the jewelry settings checked by a jeweler occasionally to ensure it is tightly secured in place as although the diamond is itself extremely hard, the metal settings are quite soft in comparison and can become loosened over time.
Owning a diamond is an astute financial investment, whether it has been given as a gift of love or for a special occasion and it is well worth keeping in mind the high value of your gem and taking the extra steps to insure it, clean it and keep it in good order.
The diamond you wear could be up to 3 billion years old and will surely outlive you, your children and your children’s children. You are the caretaker of this precious gem and it will remain an object of great beauty forever!
Jane May is a writer on consumer products. She has a passion for jewelry, in particular gemstones. Visit her new site http://www.YellowDiamond EngagementRings.net to find out relevant information on choosing and buying yellow diamond engagement rings and other fancy colored diamonds today!
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