mineral

Diamond (faceted)

Diamond (Pure Carbon, C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (in this image); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral; Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless (in this image)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified April 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (in this image); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral; Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-250 kilometers. Transported to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions (kimberlite or lamproite pipes). Dating back 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in fine jewelry and engagement rings. Industrial uses include cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing tools due to extreme hardness. Also used in high-end electronics and scientific instruments.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

In the field, look for greasy luster in raw crystals and occurrence in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits. For faceted stones like the image, identification involves testing for thermal conductivity, refractive index (2.417), and specific gravity.