When you hear that diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth, it’s easy to believe they’re completely indestructible. But if you wear a diamond ring daily, you may have wondered: can diamond rings get scratched?
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, we’ve guided generations of clients in understanding not only the durability of diamonds but also the importance of protecting them. Here’s what you need to know about scratches, sparkle, and diamond care.
Can a Diamond Itself Be Scratched?
Diamonds rank 10/10 on the Mohs hardness scale. This means they resist scratches from every material except another diamond.
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Everyday objects like keys, coins, or countertops will not scratch a diamond.
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The biggest risk of scratches comes from diamond-to-diamond contact, such as stacking multiple rings in the same box.
Answer: Yes, diamonds can be scratched, but only by other diamonds.
The Real Vulnerabilities in Diamond Rings
While the stone is incredibly durable, the ring as a whole tells a different story:
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Bands scratch easily. Gold, platinum, and silver are softer metals that show fine scratches with wear.
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Prongs weaken. Over time, prongs bend or wear down, making the diamond less secure.
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Settings dull. Lotions, oils, and dust collect around the stone, muting its brilliance.
Key Insight: Even if your diamond itself isn’t scratched, the setting and metal band will reveal daily wear.
Why Sparkle Fades Even Without Scratches
A diamond’s beauty lies in how it interacts with light. Three factors define sparkle:
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Brilliance – crisp flashes of white light.
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Fire – rainbow colors dispersed within the stone.
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Scintillation – the sparkle as the diamond moves.
Residue from cosmetics or everyday grime blocks light, making even the most perfect diamond appear dull. In short: scratches aren’t the only reason your ring loses its glow — buildup is a bigger culprit.
Everyday Situations That Risk Damage
Your diamond ring is exposed to countless small risks. Here are the most common:
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Household chores: Cleaning chemicals can damage metal and dull sparkle.
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Sports and activities: Impact against hard surfaces risks chipping or bending prongs.
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Cosmetics and lotions: Oils coat the diamond, reducing brilliance.
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Improper storage: Rings tossed together can scratch metals and even other diamonds.
How to Protect Your Diamond Ring
Protecting your ring isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency.
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Remove rings before chores, workouts, or swimming.
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Store rings in separate, fabric-lined compartments.
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Schedule professional inspections to check prongs and settings.
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Clean gently at home with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
Professional Care: The Karlise Fine Jewelers Difference
Certain care should only be done by professionals to preserve your ring’s brilliance:
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Prong re-tipping: Keeps your diamond secure.
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Polishing and refinishing: Restores scratched metal bands.
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Ultrasonic and steam cleaning: Removes deep grime safely.
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Appraisals and inspections: Ensure your ring remains secure and insured.
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, our team provides these services with the same level of craftsmanship we bring to every custom design.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Sparkle
So, can diamond rings get scratched? Yes — but only by other diamonds. More often, what you’ll see is scratches on the band, loose prongs, or a diamond that looks dull because of buildup.
The good news? With proper care and expert guidance, your diamond can remain brilliant for a lifetime.
Visit Karlise Fine Jewelers, 78 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Call (802) 658-0333
Explore our services at www.karlisejewelers.com
Let us help you protect not just your diamond, but its lasting brilliance.