mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified May 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high pressure and temperature conditions deep in the Earth's mantle, brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions known as kimberlites. Geological ages vary from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in high-end jewelry (as seen in this ring) and industrial applications for cutting, drilling, and grinding due to its unmatched hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man. Rare 'fancy' colors like blue or pink are billion-year-old accidents of chemistry or radiation.

Field identification & locations

Identify by extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), high refractive index (brilliance), and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in regions with ancient continental crust like South Africa, Russia, and Canada.