[pnacze199204]

Is it possible that salt water can damage a diamond to some extent? I found somewhere on the internet an information that a diamond can lose its shine through salt water and I would like to find out what the truth is. I always thought that the covalent bonds in diamond are so strong that basically, at room temperature, no solution can affect its structure. Thank you in advance for your reply.

[pnacze199204]

Here is an excerpt from an article I read on the internet, which I quote: "Unlike water found in rivers, lakes – or even taps at home – the ocean water is salty. While this high salt content isn’t dangerous for all jewelry, it can be catastrophic to others. Diamonds fare poorly when exposed to salt, as these ionic compounds can potentially eat away the fine polish that gives diamonds their gorgeous shine and luster".

[rolnor]

Hm.. interesting. Do you have a link to the reference?

[pnacze199204]

https://diamond101.com/does-salt-water-damage-diamonds/

[Borek]

I wouldn't treat site build for SEO a a reliable source of information.

[pnacze199204]

It has always seemed to me that salt water is unable to dissolve diamond because the carbon atoms are arranged in such a way that the process is quite impossible, am I right?

[Corribus]

I see no way that salt water can affect the integrity of diamond surface. Mechanical abrasion seems unlikely, given that diamond is among the hardest substances known; and diamond is incredibly resistant to corrosion.

That said, salt water can leave a residue on the diamond that affects its reflectivity, shine, etc. Such residue could be pretty difficult to clean off. Salt may also corrode the metal surfaces of the jewelry, including the small parts that hold the stone in place. Also, if the diamond has any coating to enhance it's optical properties, they may be prone to mechanical wear or corrosion.  So, as a general rule it's probably a good idea to leave the diamond ring at home when you go swimming in the ocean.

But as the for the diamond itself, I think it's safe from salt water. If I took a diamond ring into the ocean and noticed the surface was worn afterwards, I think you might have to go have a conversation with whoever gave it to you and told you it was a real diamond