mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown (can be fancy colors), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic (Isometric), Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified May 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown (can be fancy colors), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic (Isometric), Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-200 kilometers. Brought to the surface via kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry for its brilliance and hardness; industrial applications include cutting, grinding, and drilling tools; high-tech uses in heat sinks and optics.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance known. It is composed of a single element: Carbon. Famous specimens include the Hope Diamond and the Cullinan Diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify by extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), high refractive index, and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.