mineral

Rough Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow, Luster: Adamantine to greasy (in rough state), Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.51

Identified June 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale yellow, Luster: Adamantine to greasy (in rough state), Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.51

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle, approximately 90 to 120 miles deep. Transported to the surface by kimberlite eruptions. Ages range from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Industrial cutting and grinding tools, high-end jewelry (after cutting/polishing), and investment/collecting.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Its name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning invincible. Yellow diamonds get their color from nitrogen impurities trapped in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic greasy luster in the rough, extreme hardness (it will scratch any other mineral), and tendency to appear in octahedron shapes. Common in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in Africa, Russia, and Canada.