mineral

Diamond (Lesedi La Rona specimen)

Diamond (Pure Carbon, C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to faint yellow; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless to faint yellow
Luster: Adamantine

Identified May 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to faint yellow; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (Cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in Earth's mantle approximately 1 to 3 billion years ago. They are brought to the surface through deep-source volcanic eruptions in kimberlite pipes.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in high-end jewelry (gemstones) and industrially as abrasives, cutting tools, and in high-precision heat sinks due to extreme hardness and thermal conductivity.

Geological facts

The specimen shown is likely the Lesedi La Rona, the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever found, weighing 1,109 carats. It was discovered in the Karowe mine in Botswana in 2015.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral), adamant luster, and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.

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