mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Typically colorless but can be yellow, brown, or many other colors; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.5–3.53

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified January 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under high temperature and pressure conditions at depths of 140 to 190 kilometers in the Earth's mantle over billions of years. They are brought to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions called kimberlites.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry for engagement rings and high-end pieces. In industry, it is used for cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to its extreme hardness, as well as in heat sinks and high-pressure research.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth. The Cullinan Diamond is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found, weighing 3,106 carats. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other natural material), high refractive index (brilliance), and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in countries like Russia, Botswana, Canada, and South Africa.