mineral

Diamond

Native Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless (as shown), yellow, brown, or blue; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 Mohs
Color: Colorless (as shown), yellow, brown, or blue
Luster: Adamantine

Identified January 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless (as shown), yellow, brown, or blue; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52.

Formation & geological history

Formed at high temperatures and pressures within the Earth's mantle (about 100 miles underground) and transported to the surface via kimberlite or lamproite volcanic pipes. Most natural diamonds are between 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces); industrial use in cutting, drilling, and grinding tools due to extreme hardness; high-tech heat sinks and optical components.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance known to man. It is a polymorph of graphite, meaning they share the same chemistry (pure carbon) but have vastly different atomic structures.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its brilliance and ability to scratch any other material. Found in cratons like those in Russia, Botswana, and Canada. In the field, look for 'indicator minerals' like pyrope garnet or ilmenite in kimberlite pipes.