mineral

Diamond (in a cluster setting)

Crystallized Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Adamantine/Translucent to white/grey; Luster: Adamantine (brilliant); Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (111); Specific gravity: 3.51

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Adamantine/Translucent to white/grey
Luster: Adamantine (brilliant)

Identified March 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme high-pressure and high-temperature conditions approximately 100-250 kilometers below the Earth's surface. Transported to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions (kimberlite and lamproite pipes). Geological ages range from 1 billion to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used in jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces) due to high brilliance and hardness. Also used in industry as abrasives, cutting tools, and specialized optical lenses/heat sinks.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man. Most natural diamonds were formed during the Precambrian eon. Famous specimens include the Hope Diamond and the Cullinan Diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by checking for high refractive index (brilliance), cold touch, and ability to scratch any other mineral. Found primarily in primary kimberlite pipes or secondary alluvial deposits (rivers/beaches) in regions like South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.

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