You’ve likely heard the saying: A diamond is forever. But is it really unbreakable?
This question surprises many — and the truth is important for anyone who wears, gifts, or treasures fine diamonds.
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, we believe your jewelry deserves more than admiration — it deserves your understanding. Let’s explore what makes diamonds both incredibly strong and unexpectedly delicate.
The Surprising Truth: Diamonds Can Chip
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth. On the Mohs scale of hardness — which measures a mineral’s resistance to scratching — diamonds top the chart with a perfect ten.
But here’s what most people don’t realize:
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Hardness isn’t the same as toughness.
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Hardness means your diamond resists scratches better than any other gem.
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Toughness is about how well it handles impact, pressure, or sudden blows.
So while diamonds rarely scratch, a sharp impact in just the wrong spot can cause a chip, a crack, or — in rare cases — a break.
What Makes a Diamond Vulnerable?
Think of your diamond as a tiny architectural wonder.
Its facets, edges, and points are cut for light — not for armor.
Most common weak points:
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Girdle: The outer edge can be very thin — especially on older cuts or stones cut for maximum spread.
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Points: Shapes with sharp ends — like marquise, pear, or princess cuts — are more likely to chip at the tips.
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Corners: Emerald cuts have crisp corners that need secure prongs.
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Improper Settings: If prongs loosen or a setting doesn’t protect the edge, the risk increases.
In short: the beauty of a diamond’s shape is also where it needs the most protection.
Quick Example: One Accidental Tap
Many chips happen in everyday moments — a ring hand tapped on a granite countertop, a diamond brushing tile while cleaning, or an unexpected bump against metal.
It takes just the right angle — and a diamond’s hardest edge can lose a tiny fleck.
Which Cuts Are Strongest?
Can a Chipped Diamond Be Fixed?
Yes — but your options depend on the chip’s size and location.
What jewelers can do:
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Polishing: Small surface chips may be polished out with minimal weight loss.
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Re-cutting: Larger chips may need re-cutting — changing shape or carat slightly.
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Resetting: A protective setting like a bezel can secure a fragile edge.
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Replacement: If damage is significant, replacing the stone may be best — but we always explore preservation first.
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, we’re here to guide you through each option with clear explanations and genuine care.
Protecting Your Diamond: Smart Tips
Every diamond tells a story — and a few thoughtful habits help keep yours safe for generations.
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Remove Rings When Needed: Take them off for chores, sports, or lifting heavy objects.
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Choose a Protective Setting: Bezel settings or strong prongs offer more coverage.
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Store Separately: Keep diamonds apart to prevent stones from striking each other.
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Routine Checks: Have prongs and settings inspected yearly to catch looseness before a mishap.
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Get Proper Insurance: Pair your diamond with an up-to-date appraisal for full coverage.
Visit Karlise Fine Jewelers
Diamonds are forever — but only if treated with care and craftsmanship. Let’s protect yours together. Visit Karlise for expert checks, repairs, or to explore custom settings that balance beauty with everyday life.
Your diamond’s story is in trusted hands.
78 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 658-0333
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Because Forever Deserves Care