Diamonds are pretty tough, but they do have well defined cleavage planes. If you do experience damage to your diamond, it will probably be a chip along one of these cleavage planes. As you look down on a round stone these planes are directly across from each other, north, south, east, and west. If a round diamond is not oriented properly in a four prong crown, it can leave all cleavage planes exposed and vulnerable to damage. This is a particular problem for center stones that take the lion’s share of life’s bumps and bruises. Important diamonds should be set in six prongs. This will provide substantial protection to all cleavage planes regardless of the stone’s orientation.

Having your prongs checked every six months and built up, if needed, will also provide additional protection for the cleavage planes in your diamond.