A diamond is a unique form of pure carbon where the atoms are arranged in a dense, repeating crystal structure. This highly ordered atomic lattice is the source of the material’s celebrated physical properties. The concept of a diamond’s durability has made it a symbol of permanence and the subject of the phrase “forever.” Exploring the longevity of this gemstone requires looking beyond the popular slogan to understand its existence, from its deep geological origins to its practical life as a piece of jewelry.
The Geological Lifespan of a Diamond
The existence of a diamond begins in the crushing environment of the Earth’s mantle, approximately 90 to 150 miles beneath the surface. Here, intense pressure and temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit provide the conditions necessary for carbon atoms to lock into the dense, tetrahedral structure of a diamond. Most natural diamonds that reach the surface are ancient, with ages ranging from 1 billion to over 3.3 billion years old.
These crystals remained stable deep within the Earth’s cratons for eons, essentially unchanged by the geological turmoil above them. Their journey to the surface occurred much more recently, between a few hundred million years ago and as little as 20 million years ago, carried upward by rare, explosive volcanic eruptions. The resulting kimberlite and lamproite pipes act only as the transport mechanism, meaning the diamonds themselves are far older than the rocks that delivered them. This immense age confirms that, in a natural, undisturbed state, a diamond’s longevity spans nearly the entire history of the planet.
Understanding Diamond Durability in Daily Life
A diamond is commonly known as the hardest natural material, ranking a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This measure specifically refers to its resistance to scratching, meaning only another diamond can abrade its surface. The dense network of carbon bonds makes it highly resistant to the typical wear and tear of daily life.
However, the diamond’s reputation as indestructible is misleading because hardness is only one component of durability. The other factor is toughness, which is a material’s resistance to breaking, chipping, or fracturing from impact. Diamonds possess a moderate toughness rating because of their crystalline structure, which includes four planes of cleavage. These are directions within the crystal where the atomic bonds are slightly weaker, and a sharp, forceful impact along one of these planes can cause the diamond to chip or split.
Factors That Can Damage or Alter a Diamond
While a diamond is chemically inert to most substances encountered in daily life, certain external agents can reduce its observable lifespan. One significant threat is thermal shock, which involves a rapid change in temperature, such as moving a ring quickly from a warm indoor environment to extreme cold. This rapid expansion or contraction can create internal stress, potentially leading to fractures, especially in diamonds with existing inclusions or flaws.
Extreme heat is also a concern, as diamonds are metastable, meaning graphite is the more chemically stable form of carbon at normal pressure. Although the conversion to graphite is blocked by a very high energy barrier under everyday conditions, sustained, very high temperatures can cause surface oxidation or eventual graphitization. This process typically occurs at temperatures well above what household settings can reach, but it is a consideration during jewelry repair. Household chemicals like chlorine bleach or strong acids will not harm the diamond itself, but they can corrode or discolor the metal setting, weakening the prongs that hold the stone in place.
Maintaining Longevity for Generations
To maximize a diamond’s life as a treasured piece of jewelry, simple, consistent care is required. Routine cleaning prevents the buildup of oils, lotions, and dirt that can dull the diamond’s brilliance and make it appear cloudy. A simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water, combined with a gentle scrub from a soft-bristled brush, is highly effective for removing grime.
Proper storage is also important, as the diamond’s extreme hardness means it can scratch other gemstones and even the metal of its own setting. Storing diamond jewelry separately in a fabric-lined box or individual soft pouch prevents contact damage when the piece is not being worn. Finally, annual professional inspection by a jeweler is advised to check for loose or worn prongs and other issues with the setting. Addressing a loose setting is the most effective way to prevent the loss or accidental chipping of the stone during daily wear.