Toughness: Can It Take a Hit?
Hardness = resistance to scratches.
Toughness = resistance to breaking or chipping. Two very different things!
And when it comes to toughness? Sapphires (Montana or otherwise) actually win over diamonds. While diamonds are the “hardest” gem, they actually have a structural weakness: perfect cleavage. That means if a diamond takes a hit in just the right spot, it can split like a piece of wood along the grain.
Sapphires (including Montana sapphires) have no cleavage planes at all. That makes them structurally stronger and less likely to chip compared to diamonds, which do have cleavage.
That makes sapphires tougher than diamonds in real-life scenarios—especially if you’re the type to accidentally smack your hand on a countertop mid-coffee pour.
Now, are they indestructible? Sadly, no. A sapphire can still chip if dropped or slammed hard enough (especially on tile or marble).
Chef’s tip: If you’re hard on your hands (hello, nurses, climbers, makers, athletes), consider a low-profile or bezel setting. These designs hug your sapphire closer and protect the edges from accidental impacts.
Explore protective yet stunning styles in our Montana Sapphire Engagement Rings Collection.