mineral

Diamond (set in jewelry)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic), Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in 4 directions), Specific Gravity: 3.51

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic), Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in 4 directions), Specific Gravity: 3.51

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle (140-190km depth), then transported to the surface by kimberlite and lamproite pipes.

Uses & applications

Primary use in fine jewelry as gemstones; industrial use for cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are billions of years old, often dating 1 to 3.5 billion years. They are composed of a single element: Carbon.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high heat conductivity (using a diamond tester), extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), and high refractive index. Often found in alluvial deposits or volcanic pipes.