Do diamonds ever lose their sparkle?
It’s no secret diamonds are one of the most well-loved gemstones of them all, especially when it comes to fine jewellery. But have you ever wondered if diamonds can lose their sparkle over time? Let’s explore the factors that affect their sparkle, and how to keep yours sparkling.
The science behind a diamond’s sparkle
Mined diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and heat. Their exceptional sparkle is a result of their unique crystal structure and the way they interact with light. Here’s how their sparkle works:
- Refraction: Diamonds have a high refractive index, which means they can bend and reflect light in a way that creates a dazzling play of colours known as “fire.”
- Dispersion: The dispersion of light in a diamond creates those flashes of almost rainbow colour, also known as “brilliance.”
- Scintillation: Scintillation refers to the sparkle or flashes of light that occur when a diamond is moved.
Factors that can affect a diamond’s sparkle
While diamonds are renowned for their durability and long-lasting brilliance, certain factors can impact their sparkle over time. These factors include:
- Dirt and grime: Everyday wear can lead to a buildup of oils, lotions, and dirt on the diamond’s surface, diminishing its sparkle.
- Scratches: Diamonds are incredibly hard, but they are not immune to scratching. Over time, surface scratches can reduce their shine, which is why it’s important to protect and take care of your stones.
- Inclusions: Internal flaws, known as inclusions, can interfere with the path of light within a diamond, affecting its brilliance. This is why the better quality the diamond, oftentimes, the better the sparkle.
- Chips and damage: Physical damage, such as chipping or cracking, can significantly impact a diamond’s sparkle, as the light will not refract in the same way.
Tips to maintain your diamond’s sparkle
Now that you know what can affect a diamond’s sparkle, here are some tips to keep your precious gemstone looking its best:
- Regular cleaning: Clean your diamond regularly using a mild detergent – read our guide to cleaning diamonds, here.
- Safe storage: When you’re not wearing your diamond jewellery, store it in a soft pouch or a jewellery box to protect it from dust and scratches. You also want to store your jewellery pieces as separately as possible, to avoid scratching from other stones, and tangling.
- Regular inspections: Check your diamond for loose prongs or signs of damage, and promptly address any issues to prevent further harm.
- Avoid exposure: Remove your diamond jewellery when engaging in activities that could expose it to chemicals, extreme temperatures, or physical damage.
Looking for tips to maintain your diamonds?
Find out our favourite diamond tips and hacks here, and read all about how to clean them properly, here.
