mineral

Diamond (in jewelry setting)

Diamond (C - Carbon)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific gravity: 3.52

Identified April 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-200 kilometers, and brought to the surface by kimberlite and lamproite volcanic eruptions.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in fine jewelry as gemstones. Industrial uses include cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance known to man. It is composed of a single element: Carbon arranged in a rigid crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Field identification involves professional tools like loupes for checking inclusions and thermal/electrical conductivity testers. Look for high dispersion (fire) and sharp facet edges.