In the world of gemology, the diamond has long been revered as the hardest known natural material. Its strength, combined with its brilliant sparkle, has made it a coveted gemstone for centuries. However, the question arises: Is there a gem stronger than diamond? The answer is yes. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of gemology and materials science to explore two materials that surpass the diamond in terms of hardness: Lonsdaleite and Wurtzite Boron Nitride.
Lonsdaleite, also known as hexagonal diamond, is a type of diamond found naturally in meteorites. It forms when graphite present in the meteorite is subjected to intense heat and pressure during impact. Named after the crystallographer Dame Kathleen Lonsdale, Lonsdaleite is 58% harder than diamond, making it significantly stronger. However, it is worth noting that Lonsdaleite is not commonly used in jewelry due to its rarity and the difficulty in synthesizing it in the laboratory.
On the other hand, Wurtzite Boron Nitride (w-BN) is a compound of boron and nitrogen. It is not a gemstone but a crystalline compound that is structurally similar to diamond. It is produced under extreme conditions, such as during volcanic eruptions or in the laboratory under high pressure and temperature. Wurtzite Boron Nitride is about 18% harder than a diamond, making it one of the hardest known materials in the world.
It is important to note that hardness is not the only factor that determines the value or desirability of a gemstone. Diamonds, for instance, are prized not only for their hardness but also for their brilliance and fire. Lonsdaleite and Wurtzite Boron Nitride, while harder than diamond, do not possess the same optical properties that make diamonds so desirable.
Moreover, the process of synthesizing these materials in the lab is complex and expensive, making them less accessible for practical applications. Diamonds, on the other hand, can be synthesized relatively easily and are therefore more widely used in various industries, from jewelry to industrial cutting and drilling tools.
In conclusion, while there are materials such as Lonsdaleite and Wurtzite Boron Nitride that are harder than diamond, they are not commonly used due to their rarity, the complexity of their synthesis, and their lack of the optical properties that make diamonds so desirable. Therefore, in the realm of gemstones, the diamond continues to reign supreme in terms of both hardness and desirability.