Why is diamond the hardest material known?  Hardness and density are not the only measures of a diamond’s durability–it has great resistance to fracture also. Although diamond is not fragile or easy to break apart, it is still capable of doing so.  Because of it’s crystal structure, a diamond has planes of weakness along which it can be split. Diamond is said to have perfect cleavage or lines in four different directions, and when manipulated correctly can separate neatly along these lines giving it its sharp edges and perfect appearance. This occurs because diamond crystals have fewer chemical bonds along the plane of its face than in other directions. Diamond jewelers take advantage of these lines to cut the diamond efficiently.  Visit us online at www.desertbrilliance.com for more diamond education.