mineral

Diamond (Colorless/White)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.52

Hardness: 10 Mohs
Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown
Luster: Adamantine

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed at high temperatures and pressures in the Earth's mantle (over 150 km deep), then transported to the surface by kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 to 3 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces); industrial uses for cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to extreme hardness; heat sinks in electronics.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth. The largest diamond ever found was the Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106 carats. Most natural diamonds were formed during the Archaean Eon.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the jewelry setting by looking for the 'read-through' effect (hard to see through a real diamond), sharp facet edges, and high brilliance/fire. Commonly found in South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.