How Long Does a Diamond Last? The Truth About Diamond Durability

on Dec 11 2025
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    You're looking at an engagement ring and wondering: how long does a diamond last? Will it lose its sparkle? Can it break?

    Here's the simple answer: diamonds last forever.

    Most natural diamonds are already 1 to 3 billion years old when mined. They score a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, the highest rating possible.

    Whether you choose a natural or lab-grown diamond, the durability stays identical. Nothing can scratch them except another diamond.

    Key Facts:

    • Scratch Resistance: Diamonds cannot be scratched by any other material except another diamond

    • Everyday Wear: With proper care, diamond jewelry lasts multiple lifetimes

    • Heat Resistance: Stable up to 1,400°F (760°C) in normal air

    • Chemical Resistance: Unaffected by household chemicals, acids, or bases

    • Inheritance Value: Diamonds can be passed down through generations unchanged

    The Reality: While theoretically diamonds could transform into graphite over billions of years at room temperature, this process is so slow it's irrelevant to anyone wearing diamond jewelry. Your engagement ring will outlive you, your children, and many generations to come.

    Now let's explore exactly what makes diamonds so remarkably durable and how to ensure your diamond jewelry lasts for generations.

    Understanding Diamond Durability: The Science Behind "Forever" 

    Understanding the durability of diamond

    Before discussing how long diamonds last, it's essential to understand what makes them so exceptionally durable. Diamond durability involves three key properties: hardness, toughness, and stability.

    The Three Pillars of Diamond Durability

    1. Hardness (10 on Mohs Scale)

    Diamond hardness refers to a material's resistance to scratching and abrasion. Diamonds score a perfect 10 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, the highest rating possible. According to the Gemological Institute of America, this exceptional diamond's hardness means:

    • Only another diamond can scratch a diamond

    • Everyday materials (metal, glass, other gemstones) cannot damage a diamond's surface

    • Your diamond will maintain its polished facets and brilliant sparkle indefinitely

    • Diamond resists surface wear better than any other gemstone

    The Mohs Scale Context:

    • Diamond: 10 (hardest)

    • Sapphire/Ruby: 9

    • Topaz: 8

    • Quartz: 7

    • Steel: 5.5

    • Glass: 5.5

    • Gold/Silver: 2.5-3

    What This Means: Your diamond is 4 times harder than the next hardest gemstone (sapphire) and 58 times harder than corundum (ruby). This superior diamond hardness ensures unparalleled longevity.

    2. Toughness (Good to Excellent)

    Toughness is different from hardness; it measures resistance to breaking, chipping, or cracking from impact. While diamonds have unmatched hardness, their toughness requires understanding.

    Diamond Toughness Characteristics:

    • Good overall toughness: Can withstand normal wear and bumps

    • Cleavage planes: Diamonds have natural weak points along their crystal structure

    • Impact vulnerability: A sharp blow at the wrong angle can chip or crack a diamond

    • Setting importance: Proper settings protect diamonds from direct impacts

    Real-World Application: Your diamond won't chip from daily activities like typing, cooking, or casual contact. However, hitting it directly against a hard surface with significant force (like concrete or granite) at the wrong angle could cause damage.

    3. Chemical & Thermal Stability (Excellent)

    Diamonds are remarkably stable under normal conditions:

    Chemical Stability:

    • Inert to virtually all household chemicals

    • Resistant to acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric)

    • Resistant to bases (bleach, ammonia, lye)

    • Only vulnerable to extremely high heat in oxygen-rich environments

    Thermal Stability:

    • Stable up to 1,400°F (760°C) in air

    • Above 1,400°F, diamonds can oxidize (burn) in the presence of oxygen

    • In a vacuum or inert gas, stable to much higher temperatures

    • Thermal shock (rapid temperature changes) can cause cracking

    Practical Meaning: Your diamond jewelry is safe during:

    • Cooking and cleaning

    • Swimming (chlorinated pools, ocean)

    • Showering and bathing

    • Exercise and sports

    • Normal daily activities

    Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Durability Comparison

    Property

    Natural Diamonds

    Lab-Grown Diamonds

    Difference

    Mohs Hardness

    10

    10

    Identical

    Chemical Composition

    Pure carbon

    Pure carbon

    Identical

    Crystal Structure

    Cubic (isometric)

    Cubic (isometric)

    Identical

    Heat Resistance

    Up to 1,400°F

    Up to 1,400°F

    Identical

    Scratch Resistance

    Highest possible

    Highest possible

    Identical

    Lifespan

    Billions of years

    Billions of years

    Identical

    Toughness

    Good to excellent

    Good to excellent

    Identical

    The Bottom Line: Lab-grown and natural diamonds have identical durability because they're chemically and structurally identical. Both will last essentially forever with proper care. Whether you choose lab-grown diamond rings or natural diamond rings, you're getting the same remarkable diamond durability and diamond hardness.

    How Long Do Diamonds Actually Last? 

    How long do diamond actually last

    Let's break down diamond longevity across different timeframes and scenarios to give you a complete picture.

    Under Normal Conditions: Essentially Forever

    In Jewelry Settings:

    • Realistic Timeline: 100+ years of daily wear without significant degradation

    • Generational Heirloom: Can be passed down 3-5+ generations

    • Surface Quality: Maintains polish and brilliance indefinitely

    • Structural Integrity: Remains unchanged for centuries

    Historical Evidence:

    • The oldest dated diamonds are 3.3 billion years old

    • Diamonds discovered in the 4th century BCE remain brilliant today

    • Historical royal diamonds (like the Hope Diamond, over 350 years in documented history) show no degradation

    • Victorian-era engagement rings from the 1800s remain as beautiful as when first created

    What "Forever" Actually Means: When we say diamonds last forever, we mean:

    • Your diamond will outlive you

    • Your diamond will outlive your great-great-grandchildren

    • Your diamond will maintain its beauty for 1,000+ years

    • Your diamond could theoretically last millions of years unchanged

    Key Takeaway: Natural and lab-grown diamonds both last forever with proper care. The diamond itself needs no maintenance; only the setting requires periodic inspection every 6 months to ensure security.

    Different Diamond Types: Durability Comparison

    1. Natural Mined Diamonds

    • Age: Already 1-3 billion years old

    • Durability: Proven over billions of years in Earth's mantle

    • Lifespan: Indefinite under normal conditions

    • Care: Standard diamond care applies

    2. Lab-Grown Diamonds

    • Age: Recently created in the laboratory

    • Durability: Identical to natural diamonds (same structure and diamond hardness)

    • Lifespan: Indefinite under normal conditions

    • Care: Standard diamond care applies

    • Advantage: No structural weaknesses from natural formation

    3. Diamond Simulants (Not Real Diamonds)

    It's important to distinguish between real diamonds and simulants:

    Material

    Hardness

    Lifespan

    Scratch Resistance

    Diamond

    10

    Forever

    Excellent

    Moissanite

    9.25

    Lifetime

    Very good

    White Sapphire

    9

    Lifetime

    Very good

    Cubic Zirconia

    8-8.5

    10-20 years

    Moderate (scratches easily)

    Glass/Crystal

    5.5

    1-5 years

    Poor (scratches very easily)

    The Bottom Line: Lab-grown and natural diamonds have identical durability because they're chemically and structurally identical. Both will last essentially forever with proper care. Whether you choose lab-grown diamond rings or natural diamond rings, you're getting the same remarkable diamond durability and diamond hardness.

    Common Myths About Diamond Durability 

    Let's address some widespread misconceptions about how long diamonds last and what can damage them.

    Myth #1: "Diamonds Are Indestructible"

    The Truth: Diamonds have the highest hardness rating, but they're not indestructible. They can chip or crack from sharp impacts at specific angles along their cleavage planes.

    What This Means: Handle diamond jewelry with reasonable care. While superior diamond hardness means it won't scratch easily, it's not immune to physical damage from extreme force.

    Myth #2: "Diamonds Can Shatter Like Glass"

    The Truth: Diamonds are actually quite tough and don't shatter easily. It requires significant force at a precise angle to break a diamond.

    What This Means: Normal bumps and knocks won't damage your diamond. You'd need to hit it very hard against something extremely hard (like concrete) at just the wrong angle.

    Myth #3: "Lab-Grown Diamonds Aren't as Durable as Natural Diamonds"

    The Truth: Lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically and structurally identical, giving them identical diamond durability and diamond hardness properties.

    What This Means: Both types score 10 on the Mohs scale and will last forever with proper care. Lab-grown diamonds offer the same longevity at a lower price point.

    Myth #4: "Diamonds Need Special Care or They'll Cloud Up"

    The Truth: Diamonds don't cloud or become less brilliant over time. What looks like cloudiness is usually just oil, lotion, or dirt buildup on the surface.

    What This Means: Regular cleaning is all you need. The diamond itself remains clear—it's just surface contamination making it look dull.

    Myth #5: "You Can't Wear Diamond Jewelry Every Day"

    The Truth: Diamonds are specifically durable enough for daily wear. That's why they're the traditional choice for engagement rings worn 24/7.

    What This Means: With reasonable care and periodic diamond maintenance, diamond jewelry is designed for constant wear. Just remove it during high-risk activities.

    Myth #6: "Diamonds Will Turn Back Into Coal"

    The Truth: Diamonds are NOT made from coal (common misconception), and they won't transform back into any other form under normal conditions.

    The Science: While diamonds could theoretically transform into graphite over billions of years at room temperature, this process is so slow it's irrelevant to any human timeline.

    Myth #7: "You Shouldn't Wear Diamonds in Chlorine Pools"

    The Truth: Chlorine won't damage the diamond itself, but it can weaken gold settings over time with repeated exposure.

    What This Means: The diamond is safe due to its chemical stability, but the metal setting could be affected. It's best to remove diamond jewelry before swimming, primarily to protect the setting and avoid loss.

    Warning Signs Your Diamond Needs Attention 

    Even though diamonds last forever, settings don't. Here are signs your jewelry needs professional attention:

    Immediate Action Required:

    • Diamond moves or spins in the setting - VERY URGENT (stop wearing immediately)

    • Visible chips or cracks in the diamond - Needs professional evaluation

    • Prongs are bent, thin, or missing - Risk of diamond loss

    • Ring feels loose or wobbly - Structural integrity compromised

    Schedule Maintenance Soon:

    • Diamond appears dull after cleaning - May need professional polish

    • Rhodium plating wearing off (white gold looks yellow) - Needs re-plating

    • Small scratches on metal setting - Normal wear, refinishing available

    • Difficulty removing/putting on ring - May need resizing

    Normal, But Monitor:

    • Minor surface dulling - Just needs cleaning

    • Slight color tint visible - Clean the back of the diamond where oils collect

    • Band shows wear marks - Normal patina, no immediate concern

    When to See a Jeweler Immediately:

    • A diamond makes a rattling sound when shaken

    • You can see the space between the diamond and the setting

    • Any visible damage to the stone itself

    • Settings feel loose, or prongs look thin

    • After any impact (dropped ring, hit against a hard surface)

    • Before important events (wedding, photos, travel)

    • Any time you're concerned about security

    Prevention is Cheaper Than Replacement: A $50 prong retipping service today prevents a $5,000 diamond loss tomorrow.

    Diamond Durability by Quality Factors 

    Diamond durability by factors

    Do the "4 Cs" of diamond quality affect how long a diamond lasts? Let's explore:

    Does Cut Affect Longevity?

    Not significantly, but there are some considerations:

    Most Durable Cuts:

    • Round brilliant: No sharp corners, even stress distribution

    • Oval, cushion: Rounded edges are less prone to chipping

    • Emerald cut: Fewer facets, but corners need protection

    Cuts Require More Care:

    • Princess cut: Sharp 90° corners are vulnerable points

    • Marquise: Pointed ends need protective prongs

    • Pear: Pointed tip requires bezel or V-prong protection

    • Heart: Two pointed areas need secure settings

    The Reality: All cuts are durable for lifetime wear when properly set. The cut impacts beauty far more than diamond durability.

    Do Inclusions Affect Strength?

    Generally, no, but there are exceptions:

    Safe Clarity Grades:

    • FL/IF (Flawless): No inclusions, maximum theoretical durability

    • VVS1-VVS2: Tiny inclusions, no impact on durability

    • VS1-VS2: Small inclusions, no practical impact

    • SI1-SI2: Visible inclusions, usually safe, but depend on type and location

    Potential Concerns:

    • Large feather inclusions near the surface: Could propagate with impact

    • Cavity inclusions: Already breached the surface

    • Severe cleavages: Natural weak points

    • I1-I3 grades: May have durability-affecting inclusions

    Recommendation: Stick with VS2 or better for engagement rings to ensure structural integrity and optimal diamond longevity.

    Does Diamond Color Affect Durability?

    No. Color has zero impact on diamond durability or diamond hardness. A D-color (colorless) diamond and a Z-color (yellow) diamond have identical hardness and toughness.

    All Colors Equally Durable:

    • Colorless (D-E-F)

    • Near-colorless (G-H-I-J)

    • Faint color (K-L-M)

    • Fancy colors (yellow, pink, blue, etc.)

    Do Larger Diamonds Last Longer?

    The diamond itself lasts the same regardless of size, but larger diamonds have different practical considerations:

    Larger Diamonds (2+ carats):

    • More exposed to impacts (higher profile)

    • Require more substantial settings

    • Higher value means more careful handling

    • Insurance more important

    Smaller Diamonds (<0.50 carat):

    • Less exposed, more protected

    • Can use simpler settings

    • Often worn more casually

    • Easier to replace if lost

    Bottom Line: All sizes last forever; size affects how you wear and care for them, not inherent diamond durability.

    How to Know If Your Diamond Is Real (And Will Last Forever)

    How to know if diamond is real and will last forever

    Only real diamonds (natural or lab-grown) have the diamond durability and diamond hardness discussed in this guide. Here's how to verify yours is genuine:

    Professional Testing Methods

    At a Jeweler:

    • Thermal conductivity test: Diamonds conduct heat uniquely

    • Electrical conductivity test: Distinguishes moissanite from diamond

    • Magnification inspection: Trained gemologists can identify authentic diamonds

    Laboratory Certification:

    • GIA (Gemological Institute of America) - Most respected

    • AGS (American Gem Society)

    • IGI (International Gemological Institute)

    • GCal (Gem Certification & Assurance Lab)

    Home Tests (Preliminary Only)

    Warning: These tests aren't definitive, but can provide clues:

    The Fog Test:

    • Breathe on the diamond to fog it

    • Real diamond: Fog disperses immediately (1-2 seconds)

    • Fake diamond: Fog lingers (3-5+ seconds)

    Why: Diamonds conduct heat efficiently; fog dissipates instantly.

    The Water Test:

    • Drop a diamond in a glass of water

    • Real diamond: Sinks immediately

    • Many fakes: Float or sink slowly

    Why: Diamonds have high density (3.52 g/cm³).

    The Sparkle Test:

    • Observe how light reflects

    • Real diamond: Rainbow + white light (brilliance + fire)

    • Fake diamond: Only rainbow or only white/gray

    Why: Diamond's unique refractive index creates specific light patterns.

    Diamond Hardness vs Other Gemstones: Durability Rankings

    How does diamond compare to other popular jewelry stones?

    Gemstone

    Mohs Hardness

    Durability

    Suitable for Daily Wear?

    Lifespan

    Diamond

    10

    Excellent

    Yes (best choice)

    Forever

    Moissanite

    9.25

    Excellent

    Yes

    Lifetime

    Sapphire

    9

    Excellent

    Yes

    Lifetime

    Ruby

    9

    Excellent

    Yes

    Lifetime

    Chrysoberyl

    8.5

    Very Good

    Yes

    Lifetime

    Topaz

    8

    Good

    With care

    Lifetime

    Emerald

    7.5-8

    Fair-Good

    With care

    50-100+ years

    Aquamarine

    7.5-8

    Good

    With care

    Lifetime

    Amethyst

    7

    Good

    With care

    50-100+ years

    Opal

    5.5-6.5

    Poor

    No (special occasions only)

    20-50 years

    Pearl

    2.5-4.5

    Very Poor

    No

    10-100 years with care

    Why Diamond Wins:

    • Highest diamond hardness rating (10/10)

    • Won't scratch from everyday contact

    • Resistant to all household chemicals

    • Maintains polish indefinitely

    • Truly lasts forever with proper diamond maintenance

    When to Choose Other Stones:

    • Sapphire/Ruby: Nearly as durable, more color options, lower cost

    • Moissanite: Lab-created, more fire, much lower cost, nearly as durable

    • Emerald: Beautiful but requires more gentle care

    • Colored diamonds: Best of both worlds (diamond durability + color)

    Explore colored lab-grown emerald engagement rings for durable alternatives.

    Final Thoughts: Your Diamond's Forever Promise

    After exploring every aspect of diamond durability, the answer to "How long does a diamond last?" is refreshingly simple: forever, with proper care.

    Your diamond is already older than human civilization. Whether it formed billions of years ago deep in the Earth or was created weeks ago in a laboratory, its crystal structure is remarkably stable and will remain unchanged for countless millennia thanks to unmatched diamond hardness.

    What You Can Count On:

    • Your diamond will outlive you, your children, and many generations beyond

    • It will maintain its brilliance, sparkle, and beauty indefinitely

    • It's the hardest natural substance on Earth—nothing else can scratch it

    • With reasonable care, it will never need replacement or restoration

    • It can be passed down as a treasured family heirloom

    What Requires Your Attention:

    • Settings and prongs need regular inspection (every 6 months)

    • Cleaning maintains optimal sparkle (weekly at home, professionally annually)

    • Reasonable precautions during high-risk activities

    • Insurance protects against loss or theft

    • Proper storage prevents accidental damage

    The true beauty of diamond durability is this: once you choose your diamond, you never need to worry about it degrading, wearing out, or losing its beauty. Your only job is to protect it from loss and maintain the setting that holds it through proper diamond maintenance.

    Related Resources:

    Frequently Asked Questions About Diamond Durability 

    How long does a diamond last compared to a lifetime?

    A diamond lasts indefinitely—far beyond any human lifetime. While human lifespans average 70-80 years, diamonds maintain their structure and brilliance for millions to billions of years thanks to their exceptional diamond hardness and stability. Your diamond can be passed down through 10+ generations without any degradation in quality or appearance.

    Can a diamond break or shatter?

    Yes, but it's uncommon. Diamonds can chip or crack if hit with significant force at specific angles along their cleavage planes (natural weak points in the crystal structure). However, during normal daily wear—even decades of constant use—diamonds rarely break thanks to their excellent toughness. Avoid hitting your diamond ring against hard surfaces like concrete, granite countertops, or tile floors with force.

    Do lab-grown diamonds last as long as natural diamonds?

    Yes, absolutely. Lab-grown and natural diamonds have identical chemical composition (pure carbon) and crystal structure, giving them identical diamond durability and diamond hardness. Both score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale and will last forever under normal conditions. The only difference is origin, not longevity or durability.

    How long does it take for a diamond to turn into graphite?

    At room temperature, the transformation from diamond to graphite would take billions of years—far longer than human civilization will exist. While graphite is technically a more stable form of carbon, the energy required to convert diamond to graphite at normal temperatures is so high that this transformation is effectively impossible within any relevant timeframe. Your diamond jewelry will remain diamond forever.

    Will my diamond get cloudy or yellow over time?

    No, diamonds don't change color or clarity over time. If your diamond appears cloudy or dull, it's due to surface contamination (oils, lotions, dirt, soap residue), not changes to the diamond itself. Regular diamond maintenance and cleaning will restore its original brilliance. True yellowing only occurs if a white diamond was actually a very faint yellow to begin with, and proper lighting now reveals it.

    Can household chemicals damage my diamond?

    The diamond itself is chemically inert and won't be damaged by household chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or chlorine due to its exceptional chemical stability. However, these chemicals can damage the metal setting (especially gold and silver), weaken prongs, or cause discoloration. Remove diamond jewelry before using harsh cleaning products or swimming in chlorinated pools to protect the setting and avoid accidental loss.

    How often should I have my diamond jewelry inspected?

    Every 6 months is ideal for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry as part of proper diamond maintenance. Annual inspections are sufficient for pieces worn occasionally. Professional inspections catch loose stones, worn prongs, and setting issues before diamonds are lost. Most jewelers offer free inspections with cleaning, making this an easy way to ensure your diamond remains secure for its lifetime of wear.

    Can you wear diamond jewelry every day without damaging it?

    Yes, diamonds are specifically designed for daily wear—that's why they're the traditional choice for engagement rings worn 24/7. With proper care and diamond maintenance, diamond jewelry can withstand decades of constant use without degradation thanks to superior diamond hardness. Remove diamond jewelry during high-risk activities (heavy lifting, contact sports, manual labor) and have settings inspected every 6 months to ensure security. The diamond itself is nearly indestructible; it's the setting that requires attention.

    Do diamonds lose their sparkle over time?

    No, diamonds don't lose their inherent sparkle. However, they can appear less brilliant due to accumulated oils, lotions, dirt, and soap film on the surface. Regular cleaning (weekly at home, professionally every 6-12 months) maintains maximum sparkle as part of proper diamond maintenance. If cleaning doesn't restore brilliance, have a jeweler inspect for setting issues or damage. The diamond's optical properties remain unchanged forever.

    How long does it take to resize a diamond ring?

    While not directly related to diamond durability, resizing typically takes 1-2 weeks and doesn't affect the diamond's longevity. The diamond is secured during resizing, and the metal setting is adjusted. Multiple resizings over a lifetime won't damage the diamond itself, thanks to its diamond hardness, though excessive resizing can weaken the metal band.

    What happens to a diamond in a house fire?

    At temperatures above 1,400°F (760°C) in the presence of oxygen, diamonds can burn and turn into carbon dioxide gas. Most house fires reach 1,100-1,500°F, putting diamonds at risk. However, diamonds are often found intact after fires, especially if protected by metal settings or located away from the hottest areas. This is an extremely rare scenario that most diamonds will never encounter.

    Are diamonds from the 1920s still as durable as new diamonds?

    Yes, absolutely. Antique diamonds are just as durable as newly mined or lab-created diamonds. Age doesn't affect diamond durability or diamond hardness—they're already billions of years old when mined. Victorian and Edwardian-era diamonds remain perfectly brilliant and hard after 100+ years. However, antique settings may be worn and require restoration or updating for security. The diamond itself is timeless.

     

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