mineral

Diamond (set in Gold)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified January 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to white (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle, approximately 150-200 kilometers deep, and brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions. Most are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

High-end jewelry (as seen in this ring), industrial cutting/drilling tools, and heat sinks in electronics due to high thermal conductivity.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth because of its strong covalent bonding. The name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning unbreakable.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral) and high refractive index. Common locations include South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.