gemstone
Diamond (Cut Gemstone)
Carbon (C)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless, Luster: Adamant (brilliant), Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Diamond (Cut Gemstone) 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, Luster: Adamant (brilliant), Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and heat within the Earth's mantle (150-250 km deep), brought to surface via kimberlite volcanic pipes millions of years ago.
Uses & applications
Used in fine jewelry as centerpieces for rings, earrings, and necklaces; also used to make industrial cutting, grinding, and drilling tools.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth. It is made of a single element: carbon. Most diamonds are billions of years old.
Field identification & locations
Identify by high refractive index, extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), and high thermal conductivity. Commonly found in alluvial deposits or kimberlite pipes.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Citrine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
mineral
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2 with iron oxide inclusions)
mineral
Amber
Succinrite (Organic Gemstone)
mineraloid