Can Diamond Rings Get Scratched?

Diamonds are celebrated for their strength—but even they are not immune to time.

Whether set in a custom engagement ring or worn daily as a symbol of love, diamonds endure. Yet with regular wear, even the finest ring begins to show quiet signs of life: soft scuffs, dulled settings, or loosened prongs that often go unnoticed until brilliance fades.

So, can diamond rings get scratched? While true scratches are rare, wear and tear is very real. At Metal & Stone Jewelers in Nyack, NY, we believe your most meaningful jewelry deserves lasting care. In this guide, we explore how diamonds and their settings respond to daily use—and how thoughtful maintenance preserves both beauty and craftsmanship.

Are Diamonds Scratch-Proof?

The Truth Behind Diamond Durability

Diamonds are revered for their strength—and rightly so. Ranking 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, they are the hardest known natural substance. But hardness refers to resistance to scratching, not to overall indestructibility.

Here’s what that means for you:

• Diamonds resist scratches from almost all materials.

• Only another diamond can scratch a diamond.

• Despite this, diamonds are still vulnerable to chips and fractures when struck sharply.

In short: your diamond ring is exceptionally durable—but not invincible. Understanding the nature of wear helps you enjoy your ring every day, without unknowingly putting it at risk.

How Daily Wear Affects Diamond Rings

The diamond may stay brilliant, but everything around it—the setting, the prongs, the band—tells the story of everyday life. Over time, these subtle signs accumulate and begin to change how your ring looks and feels.

Common signs of wear include:

• Micro-abrasions or surface clouding from contact with other materials

• Dull metal bands from friction, especially on high-polish finishes

• Worn or loosened prongs, which can eventually compromise the security of the stone

• Loss of brilliance caused by residue buildup or exposure to harsh substances

Most of this wear happens slowly, invisibly—but catching it early ensures your ring retains its integrity, sparkle, and sentimental value.

What Can Scratch or Damage a Diamond Ring?

Recognizing the Real Risks

Though diamonds rarely scratch, several factors can alter their appearance or structure—especially in combination with daily habits.

1. Contact with Other Diamonds

Storing diamond jewelry together, stacking multiple diamond rings, or wearing pieces that rub against each other can cause micro-scratches. These are rare but possible—and preventable.

2. Impact Damage from Hard Surfaces

Chipping doesn’t happen often, but it can occur—especially at a diamond’s pointed edges or girdle. Knocking your ring against a countertop or dropping it on tile might cause a fracture or chip, particularly in fancy shapes like pear, marquise, or princess cuts.

3. Environmental Residue and Chemicals

While household soaps, perfumes, and cosmetics won’t scratch the diamond, they can build up on its surface and setting, dulling its fire and brilliance. Over time, chemical exposure can also degrade white gold's rhodium plating or weaken metal prongs.

Is It the Diamond—Or the Setting?

Why the Metal Often Shows Wear First

In most cases, when a ring starts to look worn, it’s not the diamond at fault—it’s the setting.

Different metals age differently:

• 18K Gold: Softer due to its purity; more prone to scratches and dings

• 14K Gold: Slightly harder and more wear-resistant, making it a popular balance

• Platinum: Extremely durable; it doesn't thin out over time but develops a matte-like patina that some find elegant, others prefer to polish

Over years of wear, prongs may flatten, claw tips may dull, and bands may lose symmetry—especially on the underside where wear is most concentrated.

Preserving the Beauty of Your Diamond Ring

Essential Maintenance Tips for Lasting Brilliance

Your ring is designed to be worn, loved, and admired. But a little ongoing care goes a long way in preserving its original splendor.

To protect your diamond ring:

• Remove it during hands-on activities, including sports, gardening, cooking, and cleaning

• Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, including bleach, ammonia, and chlorine

• Clean it regularly with a soft brush, warm water, and mild soap to remove residue

• Store it in a fabric-lined box, separate from other jewelry

Schedule annual inspections at Metal & Stone Jewelers to check for loose prongs or signs of fatigue

We offer complimentary cleaning and evaluations—because prevention is far more elegant than repair.

When Should You Bring Your Ring In?

Telltale Signs of Wear Worth Addressing

If your diamond appears dull, or the ring feels different on your hand, trust your instincts. These subtle changes often signal the need for professional attention.

Consider a professional evaluation if:

• The diamond looks cloudy or has visible smudges after cleaning

• The ring catches on fabrics—this could indicate worn or raised prongs

• You notice uneven wear on the band or misshaped prongs

• The ring has been exposed to hard impact or dropped

Our master jewelers in Nyack can determine whether a gentle polish, structural repair, or full restoration is appropriate.

A diamond ring is made to endure—but its longevity depends on how it's cared for.

Conclusion

Scratches may be uncommon, but signs of wear will inevitably appear. Knowing when to act—and where to turn for expert care—can make the difference between subtle damage and a lasting heirloom.

At Metal & Stone Jewelers, we invite you to bring your ring in for a complimentary inspection. Whether you're noticing changes in the diamond’s sparkle, prong security, or band condition, our team will offer honest guidance and meticulous service tailored to your piece.

Visit us at 12 South Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960

Call (845) 358-4363

Learn more at www.metalandstonejewelers.com

Protect what matters most—schedule your visit today and let us help you preserve the brilliance behind your most cherished ring.