Putting a diamond in a microwave oven for too long can have some interesting effects, but it's essential to note that doing so is not recommended, and it could potentially damage the microwave. Here's what might happen if you were to put a diamond in a microwave for an extended period:
Little to No Effect: Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, so they may not heat up much in a microwave. The microwaves primarily interact with water molecules, and since diamonds do not contain water, they may not be significantly affected.
Microwave Damage: The microwave oven is designed to heat food by exciting water molecules, leading to the generation of heat. If the diamond were to heat up significantly and become too hot, it could potentially cause damage to the microwave itself. It might even cause sparking or arcing inside the oven, which could damage the magnetron (the microwave's main heating element) or other components.
Fire Hazard: If the diamond were placed on a flammable surface, such as paper or certain plastics, the intense heat generated from the microwave could lead to a fire.
Thermal Shock: While diamonds are incredibly hard, they can be brittle. Rapid heating or cooling could potentially cause thermal shock, leading to fractures or damage to the diamond.
In any case, microwaving a diamond is not a recommended or practical experiment. Diamonds are precious gemstones, and subjecting them to microwave radiation can potentially devalue or damage them. It's best to avoid putting any non-food items, especially valuable ones, into a microwave oven. If you suspect your diamond jewelry is dirty or needs cleaning, it's best to use safe and appropriate cleaning methods, such as using warm soapy water or taking it to a professional jeweler.