Although they symbolize beauty and strength, diamonds are the hardest naturally occurring substances known, and they are supposed to be the most indestructible of all our gemstones. But even these stones are not free from obscure imperfections that can be termed flaws. These tiny imperfections, called inclusions, are similar to small birthmarks inside or towards the surface of a natural diamond. They may affect the resilience of the gemstone, although they definitely add individuality to each diamond. Let’s further investigate how these flaws influence the durability of a diamond in easily digestible terms.
What Are Flaws in a Natural Diamond?
Deep down in Earth, during very hot and intense conditions, natural diamonds are created and trapped with tiny blemishes either inside them or on their surface. These little deformities are called inclusions (within the diamond) or blemishes (on the surface). Inclusions might be small crystals, air bubbles, or even cracks, while blemishes could be scratches or chips. To be effective, think of them as sometimes freckles or scars on a person; they do not necessarily weaken the diamond sometimes, but they can.
How Flaws Impact Durability
Durability simply means the percentage to which a real diamond can resist breaking, chipping, or scratching. Although diamonds measure ten on the Mohs scale of hardness, they can still be less tough in some conditions when damaged. For instance, at the edge of a diamond, indications of large inclusion might act as a weakness. Should the diamond be struck hard at a very particular place, it will chip or crack. Imagine a window panel made of glass that has a slight crack; it is still strong until it meets pressure.
The size and type, as well as the location, of the flaw play a very important role. Typically, small inclusions deep within the gem do not affect it. However, larger ones, particularly ones closer to the surface or edges, make the diamond more fragile. For example, a feather (crack-like inclusion) near the edge could spread like a small paper tear when pulled apart if the diamond is “hit.”
Types of Flaws and Their Effects
There are many different kinds of flaws, and each has a different effect on the diamond’s toughness. Here are some of the most common:
- Feathers: The term refers to very small cracks inside the jewel. A very small feather should not create any problems, but a sizable feature near the surface will render the diamond more likely to break into pieces.
- Cavities: These are small holes present on the surface of the diamond. They can weaken the area surrounding them and make it much easier to chip the diamond whenever it gets knocked.
- Crystals: sometimes other small minerals have been entrapped in the diamond itself. If they are small and deep, they are harmless. But large ones close to the surface can provide weakness.
- Clouds: These clusters form little inclusions that look like little clouds. A small cloud may not affect strength, but a large one could damage the internal structure of the diamond.
Each and every one of these flaws is essentially a small crack in a superhero’s armor: not a problem usually, but it’s a matter of where and how big the flaw is.
Can Flaws Be Fixed?
One might wonder whether such imperfections could be cured by making the diamond stronger. Indeed, jewelers can, in some instances, polish away surface blemishes like scratches; however, inclusions inside the gem are there to stay. Certain prominent treatments like laser drilling may remove some dark inclusions, but such processes may also inadvertently create new tiny flaws. It might be compared to patching a hole in a wall—you adjust one problem but might not have the department patch quite strong.
Fewer or smaller flaws in a diamond increase its chances to be durable. Jewelers define strength grading to classify diamonds by their weak points. Those that fall under high clarity classification (such as VVS or VS) are less predisposed to weak areas since they have very few or inconspicuous imperfections.
How to Protect a Flawed Diamond
Although flawed, a real diamond can survive a lifetime with care. Here are a few simple ways to keep it protected:
- Choose a good setting: For instance, holding the diamond with metal above the stone, such as a bezel, will help keep the edges of the diamond, which are more injury-prone with defects, from breaking.
- Avoid hard impacts: Don’t wear diamond jewelry while doing rough activities like sports or heavy lifting.
- Clean it gently: Soapy water and a soft brush will do absolute cleaning to your diamond. Strong chemicals or harsh scrubbing can worsen surface flaws.
- Regular checkups: A jeweler should see your ring every once in a while to check if it’s loose or has acquired additional scratches.
Take good care of your diamond, and it will remain strong and attractive, even though it may be imperfect.
Why Flaws Make Diamonds Special
Ironically, flaws tend to add even more uniqueness to a diamond. They are like fingerprints—no two diamonds have the same pattern of inclusions. Certain flaws do detract from durability, but most do not, especially if small or very deep within. Besides, many flawed diamonds tend to be less expensive, so a buyer could get a larger or flashier gem for less money.
Asking for the clarity grade of a diamond and then asking the jeweler to magnify the sighting defects on a loupe are smart ways to shop for a diamond. Such an action would help read into whether the flaws are strength-affecting or simply part of the unique character of the gem.
Final Thoughts
Flaws are par for the course with a natural diamond: it has traveled from deep inside the Earth right into your jewelry box. While the presence of some irregularities might make a diamond less durable, most will not as long as you choose well and keep them well. Knowing how these flaws work and protecting your gem helps in using its beauty and strength for years to come. Whether used to create rings, necklaces, or earrings, a diamond sparkle and story, imperfections included, make it truly one-of-a-kind.