Ep. 41 - The Diamond Dilemma: Why The World's Hardest Gemstone Can Still Break

**The Truth About Diamonds**

Diamonds, often touted as "forever," have a mystique of invincibility. However, the reality is that they are not indestructible. Much like everything else in our physical world, diamonds can chip or break. This revelation may come as a surprise to many, given that diamonds are known as the hardest substance on Earth. But there's more to the story.

Yes, diamonds are incredibly hard, making them highly resistant to scratches and abrasions. However, they lack toughness, which describes a material's ability to withstand sudden stress without shattering. Diamonds, while not as brittle as glass, can still chip or break, especially when subjected to sharp impacts. This vulnerability can catch wearers off guard, leaving them wondering how such a precious gem could be so fragile.

Cleavage plays a crucial role in understanding why diamonds can break. Cleavage planes in diamonds determine how the mineral breaks or splits under stress. If a diamond is hit "just right" along one of these planes, it's more likely to break or split. A historical example is Joseph Asher's delicate operation in 1908, splitting the massive Cullinan diamond into several exquisite pieces. Despite the pressure, he succeeded, and today, we're able to marvel at those gems in the British Crown Jewels.

To prevent accidental damage to diamonds, my best advice is to treat it as you would your most cherished and spiffy outfit. While you can do most things while wearing it, you'd be extra careful and mindful about how you're doing those things, because you don't want to ruin your fancy clothes.  Just remember, diamonds may be the hardest transparent substance on Earth, but they are not invulnerable. Accidents can happen, and understanding their nature is the first step in protecting these precious gems.