mineral

Diamond

Diamond (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs), Color: Colorless (common) to various hues, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs), Color: Colorless (common) to various hues, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and high heat, then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions of kimberlite and lamproite magma.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in high-end jewelry and industrial applications such as cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to its unparalleled hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds are between 1 and 3.5 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its high refractive index (brilliance) and hardness. Found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in locations like Russia, Botswana, and Canada.