mineral
Diamond (appearing in jewelry)
Diamond (pure Carbon, C)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral; Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51
- Hardness
- 10 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Colorless (in this specimen)
- Luster
- Adamantine
Identified More mineral →
Explore Diamond (appearing in jewelry) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral; Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51
Formation & geological history
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle (150-250km) under extreme pressure and temperature, then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions of kimberlite or lamproite pipes.
Uses & applications
Primary use in jewelry (gemstones) and industrial applications including cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to unrivaled hardness.
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance. The largest gem-quality diamond ever found was the Cullinan Diamond, weighing 3,106 carats.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral) and its high refractive index (brilliance/fire). This specific piece is a pear-cut faceted gemstone in a halo setting.
