When properly set-up and used, phono cartridges wear fairly linearly. Think of the way that a set of tires wear.
But that's not what you are asking about. Line contact stylii have sharp edges and in the case of shock the diamond, which is a crystaline structurem, can cleave or break. I have also seen entire stylii come off the cantilever probably due to the adhesive not holding up.
As stated previously the damage would likely be catastrophic and you would know it pretty quickly. If the cantilever is straight, and the cartridge sounds good it is good.
If you are an anal type you can buy a USB microscope for not too much money and have a look yourself or take it to a dealer.
But that's not what you are asking about. Line contact stylii have sharp edges and in the case of shock the diamond, which is a crystaline structurem, can cleave or break. I have also seen entire stylii come off the cantilever probably due to the adhesive not holding up.
As stated previously the damage would likely be catastrophic and you would know it pretty quickly. If the cantilever is straight, and the cartridge sounds good it is good.
If you are an anal type you can buy a USB microscope for not too much money and have a look yourself or take it to a dealer.