Rock Identifier
Diamond (likely rough or included fragment) (Diamond, crystalline carbon (C), cubic crystal system) — gemstone
gemstone

Diamond (likely rough or included fragment)

Diamond, crystalline carbon (C), cubic crystal system

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 10; typically colorless to pale gray/yellow, adamantine luster, excellent cleavage, and very high refractive index. The image is small and appears to show a bright, irregular fragment, so internal inclusions and exact quality cannot be confirmed.

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness 10; typically colorless to pale gray/yellow, adamantine luster, excellent cleavage, and very high refractive index. The image is small and appears to show a bright, irregular fragment, so internal inclusions and exact quality cannot be confirmed.

Formation & geological history

Forms deep in Earth’s mantle at roughly 140– 币? 200 km depth under extreme pressure and temperature, then reaches the surface in kimberlite or lamproite eruptions. Most natural diamonds are billions of years old, commonly about 1–3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone and in cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing tools; industrial diamonds may be synthetic. Gem value depends overwhelmingly on carat weight and the 4Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring mineral, though toughness is limited by cleavage. Identification requires tests such as thermal conductivity and professional grading; visual appearance alone cannot distinguish it reliably from cubic zirconia or moissanite.

Field identification & locations

Common source regions include Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Russia, Canada, and Australia; alluvial diamonds occur in river gravels. A field specimen should show sharp crystal faces or adamantine flashes, but professional testing is essential.