mineral

Diamond

Native Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified April 2, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature in the Earth's mantle, approximately 100 miles below the surface. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions in kimberlite or lamproite pipes. Most are between 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry due to rarity and brilliance; industrial uses include cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to extreme hardness (industrial-grade diamonds).

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds were formed billions of years ago. Some diamonds have even been found in meteorites, suggesting cosmic origins.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch any other material and its high refractive index (brilliance). In the field, look for octahedral crystal shapes in kimberlite host rocks or as alluvial deposits in riverbeds.