mineral

Diamond (in a gold ring setting)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (clear); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless (clear)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (clear); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and high temperatures. They are brought to the surface through deep-source volcanic eruptions known as kimberlite or lamproite pipes. Geological age can range from 1 billion to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces); industrial uses include cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to extreme hardness; used in high-pressure scientific experiments and heat sinks.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. While they are famous for being colorless, they can occur in every color of the rainbow (known as 'fancy' diamonds). The Cullinan Diamond, found in 1905, is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its brilliance, ability to scratch any other mineral, and high thermal conductivity (cold to the touch). Commonly found in primary deposits in South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Botswana. Collectors look for the 'Four Cs': Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.