mineral

Rough Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/translucent, Luster: Adamantine to greasy, Crystal structure: Cubic (Octahedral), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified April 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and heat deep within the Earth's mantle (over 150 km deep), then transported to the surface via kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 to 3 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry after cutting and polishing; also used extensively in industry for cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. While they are often associated with love, they were historically used as talismans for strength and courage. Only 20% of diamonds mined are gem-quality.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), isometric crystal shape, and high thermal conductivity. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in riverbeds.