mineral

Diamond (in Jewelry)

Diamond (Carbon, C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, approximately 100 miles below the surface, and brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in fine jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets) and industrially as an abrasive or for cutting tools due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds are estimated to be between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its exceptional brilliance, fire (dispersion of light), and inability to be scratched by any other material. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits.