mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C) - Native Element

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear/Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic), Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear/Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic), Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature in the Earth's mantle (about 100 miles deep) over 1 to 3 billion years ago. They are brought to the surface by kimberlite pipe volcanic eruptions.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry due to rarity and brilliance, and in industrial applications for cutting, drilling, and grinding because of its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance known on Earth. Many diamonds found today are billions of years old, predating the dinosaurs.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high refractive index, extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), and high thermal conductivity. Main sources include Russia, Botswana, Canada, and South Africa.