How is it possible that diamonds can't be scratched but can be broken? Isn't a scratch simply the beginning of a breakage?

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Ancient Hippy Profile
Ancient Hippy answered

Diamonds have a cleavage, similar to the grain of wood, and can split, crack or splinter along those cleaves.

Firstname Refreshme lastname Profile

Most diamonds have tiny flaws and that's where they are prone to breakage.

Claire MotherofPetey Profile

Diamonds can be burned too.  It just needs a very hot fire and lots of oxygen 💍

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