Natural diamonds are known for their resistance to scratches, but the way a piece wears over time also depends on its setting. Here is what to look for when choosing and caring for natural diamond jewelry.
What makes a natural diamond durable?
Diamond ranks 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, which describes resistance to scratching. Hardness does not mean a stone cannot chip. A sharp knock on an exposed edge or point can still cause damage. The metal setting matters too: even a secure-looking stone can loosen if a prong becomes bent or worn.
Check the setting, not just the sparkle
Look at the prongs in good light. If a tip catches on clothing, sits away from the stone, or looks thinner than the others, stop wearing the piece until a qualified jeweller checks it. Do not try to bend a prong back yourself. For earrings, check that the backs fasten securely and that the posts are not bent.
Simple cleaning at home
For a sound setting, use lukewarm water with a little mild dish soap and a soft brush to gently clean around and behind the diamond. Rinse carefully over a bowl rather than an open drain, then dry with a soft lint-free cloth. If a stone feels loose, skip home cleaning and have the piece inspected first. Ask a jeweller before using an ultrasonic cleaner, especially if the setting has small stones or visible wear.
When to take it off
Remove diamond jewelry for weightlifting, gardening, rough manual work, and cleaning with harsh chemicals. Store pieces separately to reduce contact with other jewelry. Arrange a professional check if a stone moves, a prong snags, or the metal is visibly bent.
Explore our Natural Diamond collection, including the 0.70 ct total natural diamond solitaire stud earrings. Check each product's own details for its materials, stone grading, and setting.