“Diamonds are indestructible”

Many people commonly believe that diamonds, often associated with eternity (Review) and strength, are truly indestructible. This widespread notion likely stems from a combination of clever marketing campaigns emphasizing their durability and the scientific fact that diamonds are indeed the hardest natural material known to humankind. This exceptional hardness, rated a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, means a diamond can scratch almost any other material, leading many to mistakenly assume it can withstand any force without damage.

However, the truth is more nuanced. While incredibly hard, diamonds possess a property called "perfect cleavage." This means they have specific planes within their crystal structure where the atomic bonds are weaker. A sharp, well-aimed blow along one of these planes can cause a diamond to cleave or shatter, much like splitting wood along its grain. Furthermore, despite their formidable reputation, diamonds are not impervious to heat. They are, in fact, composed of carbon and will burn in air at temperatures exceeding 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit, transforming into carbon dioxide.

The enduring belief in a diamond's invincibility is understandable, given its symbolic association with eternal love and its unparalleled hardness. Yet, understanding the scientific realities of cleavage and combustion reveals that even the most precious of gemstones has its vulnerabilities. So, while a diamond may be forever in sentiment, it certainly isn't in a literal, physical sense.