gemstone

Diamond (Faceted)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Specific Gravity: 3.51-3.53. High refractive index.

Identified July 6, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Specific Gravity: 3.51-3.53. High refractive index.

Formation & geological history

Formed at high temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth's mantle (over 150 km deep), then transported to the surface by kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Dominantly used in jewelry (rings, necklaces) and for industrial purposes such as cutting tools, abrasives, and high-precision heat sinks due to extreme hardness and thermal conductivity.

Geological facts

Diamond is the only gemstone made of a single element: Carbon. It is the hardest known natural substance. The famous Hope Diamond is blue due to boron impurities, but most jewelry-grade diamonds are valued for their clarity and lack of color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its brilliance, dispersion (fire), and inability to be scratched by any other material. Commonly found in secondary alluvial deposits or primary kimberlite pipes. Collect for color, cut, clarity, and carat weight.