mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C), Native Element

Hardness: 10 Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (in this example); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51

Hardness: 10 Mohs scale
Color: Colorless (in this example)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (in this example); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature deep within the Earth's mantle (over 150 km deep), often transported to the surface by kimberlite and lamproite volcanic pipes. Age typically ranges from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in high-end jewelry and luxury collections. Industrial grade diamonds are used for cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to their extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds were formed billions of years ago. The word diamond is derived from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning unbreakable.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its brilliance, ability to scratch any other material, and its high thermal conductivity. It can be found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits (riverbeds). Professionals use loupes and thermal testers to differentiate them from cubic zirconia.