⚠️This fact has been debunked
This is a myth. Diamond hardness is determined by its crystal structure and is uniform at 10 on the Mohs scale regardless of origin. Geographic location does not affect a diamond's fundamental hardness, though impurities and crystal defects can vary by region.
Diamonds mined in Brazil are harder than those found in Africa.
Are Brazilian Diamonds Harder Than African Diamonds?
You might have heard the claim that Brazilian diamonds are somehow tougher than their African counterparts. It sounds plausible—different regions, different geology, different diamonds, right? Wrong. This is one of those persistent myths that sounds scientific but falls apart under scrutiny.
All diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, regardless of whether they were pulled from Brazilian soil or African mines. That's because hardness is determined by the diamond's crystal structure—the way carbon atoms bond together in that distinctive lattice pattern—not by the country stamped on the mining permit.
So Why Does This Myth Exist?
The confusion likely stems from mixing up hardness with quality. Different mining regions do produce diamonds with varying characteristics: color, clarity, the presence of nitrogen or other impurities, and crystal defects. A flawless diamond from anywhere will behave differently under a jeweler's tools than one riddled with inclusions.
But these variations affect durability and appearance, not fundamental hardness. A Brazilian diamond and an African diamond will scratch the same materials with equal ease—or refuse to be scratched by them.
What Actually Varies Between Regions
- Crystal quality: Some regions produce clearer, more flawless stones on average
- Color distribution: Certain mines are known for specific color diamonds
- Inclusion patterns: Internal flaws and mineral deposits vary geographically
- Size and yield: Economic deposits differ in average carat weight
These factors matter tremendously for value and beauty, but they don't change the fact that diamond is diamond. The carbon atoms don't care about borders.
The Real Hardness Story
Diamond's legendary hardness comes from its atomic structure: each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four others in a rigid three-dimensional lattice. This creates the hardest naturally occurring material on Earth. Geography can't alter atomic bonds.
That said, "hardness" only measures scratch resistance. Diamonds can still chip, cleave, or shatter if struck at certain angles—their toughness is actually moderate. This is why jewelers can cut diamonds along cleavage planes, and why a hammer blow in the right spot can break even a "perfect 10" stone.
So the next time someone tries to impress you with tales of ultra-hard Brazilian diamonds, you can gently correct them: diamonds are equally hard everywhere, but the stories we tell about them? Those vary wildly by region.
