mineral

Diamond (Set in Jewelry)

C (Native Carbon)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown
Luster: Adamantine

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.52.

Formation & geological history

Formed at high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth's mantle (over 150 km deep), then transported to the surface via kimberlite or lamproite volcanic pipes over periods up to 3 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces), but industrially used for cutting, drilling, and grinding due to extreme hardness. Also used in high-tech electronics and optics.

Geological facts

They are the hardest known natural substance. The famous Hope Diamond is blue due to boron impurities. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identification involves checking for 'fire' (dispersion), conducting a thermal conductivity test (diamond tester), and observing for natural inclusions under magnification. Often set in gold or platinum settings with hallmarks.