We’ve all heard the old saying that diamonds are forever. But do they really last that long? Yes, they are the hardest known natural material on the earth, but forever really is a very long time. So, just what is the truth – has James Bond lied to us once again, or are they really likely to be an investment that just keeps on giving?
Ultimately, it is important to understand where these gems came from before we talk about how long they are likely to last -they are formed under huge amounts of pressure and high temperatures deep below the surface of the earth. Next, it is also important to know just how long they have been around too. Most scientists agree that the most recently formed diamond was probably created somewhere around 45 million years ago. Therefore, we can be pretty sure about one thing – they are not likely to be things that disappear or break easily.
However, whilst this proves they are exceptionally resilient, it also proves one other thing. Such gems are no longer being created, or at least have not been created in many millions of years. In fact, the conditions needed for a diamond to form are no longer present on earth, meaning that whilst they might stick around for a long time, there will be a day when we simply run out.
So are they forever? Well, it depends exactly what you mean by that. They have obviously proved their worth by having been around for such a long time, but even the most durable of materials can break or be damaged, and diamond is no different. Buying diamond rings will indeed offer you a great chance that the stone in the middle will long outlive you, but this will only be the case if it is looked after in the right way. If it is not cleaned regularly or is allowed to be knocked against hard surfaces (or more commonly against another diamond) chips can easily form, scratches occur and whilst it may still be present, the rock that you have will be a mere shadow of its original self.
However, the fact that they are so resilient counts for one major thing – they can be the perfect metaphor. The fact that, so long as they are looked after, they will indeed last many lifetimes (if not forever – but then who needs a ring to last quite literally forever? Not even the sun is going to last forever) means that they are an excellent gift to be offered as a symbol of an engagement. Diamond engagement rings account for the majority of all rings offered at the time of a proposal, and this is not just down to clever marketing. Instead, it also has a great deal to do with the fact that the stone’s longevity is hoped to be mirrored by the longevity of the relationship.
So, whilst nothing will ever last forever, a diamond can indeed last for longer than we will ever need. All it needs is the right care and it can be the perfect gift to last a lifetime.