10 Most Messed Up Steven Universe Moments
5. Garnet Destablized
As mentioned, when a Gem's projected body becomes too damaged, it disappears or "poofs." However, there's another way for a Gem to be poofed. Destabilization. Something Homeworld Gems are capable of doing using tools.
In the season 1 episode, "The Return," Homeworld Gems Jasper and Peridot, with a captured Lapis Lazuli, arrive in Beach City in their giant, green hand-shaped spaceship. They confront the Crystal Gems, firing a laser. Steven blocks the blast with his shield, the rose design convincing Jasper that Steven is his mother Rose Quartz, the enemy of Homeworld. Jasper wants to take Steven back to Homeworld, but Garnet attacks the large Gem.
Jasper counters using a Gem Destabilizer on Garnet. The rod sends a shock of energy into Garnet's body. A line bisects Garnet, spreading throughout her body and causing her arms to fall off. As she falls backwards in slow motion, her three eyes meet Steven's gaze as the other Crystal Gems watch in horror. Then Garnet explodes into clouds of smoke and her two gemstones fall into the impressions of her body in the sand.
This scene was considered to be too violent in many countries outside of the US and was heavily censored. Not surprising, really.