mineral

Diamond (appearing as a jewelry centerpiece)

Diamond (Formula: C)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in four directions), Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.53

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in four directions), Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.53

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-250 kilometers, and brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions. Geological age can range from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry (as seen in the ring) and industrial applications for cutting, grinding, and drilling due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance known on Earth. Famous specimens include the Hope Diamond and the Cullinan. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning unbreakable.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral), high thermal conductivity, and distinctive adamantine luster. Common locations include South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Botswana.