Sep 22, 2025

Can Diamond Rings Get Scratched?

Diamonds are celebrated as the hardest natural substance on Earth, but many wonder: does that mean they’re truly scratch-proof? If you wear your diamond ring daily, it’s natural to worry about surfaces, chores, or even accidental knocks.

The truth is: diamonds are extremely scratch-resistant, but they aren’t invincible. Let’s look at what makes diamonds so durable, what can actually scratch them, and how to protect your cherished ring.

Why Diamonds Are So Hard to Scratch

Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, a measurement that compares minerals by their resistance to scratching. This hardness is due to the diamond’s atomic structure—each carbon atom bonded tightly in a crystal lattice.

What this means for you:

A diamond can scratch any other gemstone or material lower on the scale (like sapphire, topaz, or quartz).
Only another diamond can scratch a diamond.

This property explains why diamonds remain sparkling for decades, even with daily wear.

Can Diamonds Really Be Scratched?

The short answer: yes, but rarely.

Situations where scratches may happen:

Diamond vs. diamond contact: If two diamonds rub against each other—such as stacked rings in the same jewelry box—they can leave marks.
Hard blows at specific angles: Diamonds have “cleavage planes,” natural lines of weakness. A strong impact at the right angle can cause chips or scratches.
Professional tools or abrasives: In industrial settings, specialized cutting tools (tipped with diamonds) can scratch or cut diamonds.

Outside of these scenarios, your diamond is unlikely to pick up scratches from everyday surfaces like wood, metal, glass, or stone.

What About the Ring Itself?

While your diamond is nearly scratch-proof, the metal that holds it is not. Gold, platinum, and silver are all far softer than diamonds. Over time, these metals naturally develop fine scratches or a worn “patina.”

This is why many people notice their ring looking duller—not because the diamond has scratched, but because the band has accumulated marks.

Quick Insight

Diamonds resist scratches better than any other gemstone, but everyday life can still expose them to risks when they come in contact with other diamonds.

Common Scenarios That Put Diamonds at Risk

To keep your diamond safe, be mindful of these situations:

Stacking Rings: The most common culprit. Diamonds from one ring can brush against the other.
Improper Storage: Placing loose diamonds or rings together in a box without separation.
Active Lifestyles: Contact sports, gardening, or gym workouts can expose your ring to unexpected knocks.
Professional Jewelry Work: Resizing or resetting done by non-experts can expose a stone to scratches if handled incorrectly.

Diamond vs. Metal Scratch Resistance

Here’s a quick breakdown of how diamonds compare to common jewelry metals:

How to Protect Your Diamond From Scratches

Separate Storage: Keep your diamond ring in a soft-lined box or pouch away from other diamonds.
Remove for Activities: Take off your ring before sports, gardening, or heavy chores.
Routine Inspections: At Lorenza Jewelry, we recommend semi-annual checkups to polish bands, inspect prongs, and ensure your diamond is secure.

Can Everyday Wear Scratch a Diamond Ring?

Everyday wear won’t scratch the diamond itself, but it can scratch the metal band. Diamonds may only scratch in rare cases—such as when rubbing against another diamond.

Why Trust Lorenza Jewelry?

Since our beginnings as a repair shop in 2008, Lorenza Jewelry has become Marietta’s trusted destination for fine jewelry, certified diamonds, and custom design. We help you:

Maintain your jewelry with expert polishing and cleaning.
Design one-of-a-kind rings built to last.
Protect your diamond with advice and care rooted in decades of expertise.

Conclusion: Durable, But Not Indestructible

So, can diamond rings get scratched? Diamonds themselves are remarkably scratch-resistant, but they aren’t indestructible. With careful wear and smart storage, your diamond will remain unmarked for a lifetime. The metal around it will naturally show wear, but professional care can keep your ring as brilliant as the day you first wore it.

Your diamond ring tells a story of love and celebration—let us help you protect that story.

Lorenza Jewelry

2100 Roswell Rd Ste. 2160

Marietta, GA 30062

Contact Us | Visit us for cleaning, inspections, or to explore custom engagement rings in Atlanta and Marietta.