mineral

Diamond (in a jewelry setting)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown in typical jewelry, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown in typical jewelry, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, 90 to 250 miles deep. Most diamonds are transported to the surface by Kimberlite or Lamproite pipes during volcanic eruptions. Age ranges from 1 billion to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces), and industrial applications for cutting and grinding due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Despite their hardness, they have perfect cleavage, meaning they can be split with a single sharp blow. The 'Mir' mine in Russia and the 'Argyle' mine in Australia are famous sources.

Field identification & locations

Identify in jewelry settings by checking for high dispersion (fire), looking for 'bearding' or inclusions under a 10x loupe, or using a thermal conductivity tester. They are often found in alluvial deposits or kimberlite pipes.