gemstone
Diamond (or Cubic Zirconia)
Carbon (C) or Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)
Hardness: 10 (Diamond) or 8-8.5 (CZ); Color: Colorless; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (Diamond) or none (CZ); Specific Gravity: 3.52 (Diamond) or 5.6-6.0 (CZ)
- Hardness
- 10 (Diamond) or 8-8
- Color
- Colorless
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Diamond) or 8-8.5 (CZ); Color: Colorless; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Perfect octahedral (Diamond) or none (CZ); Specific Gravity: 3.52 (Diamond) or 5.6-6.0 (CZ)
Formation & geological history
Natural diamonds form under high pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle; Cubic Zirconia is a lab-grown synthetic mineral. Most natural diamonds are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.
Uses & applications
Used in fine jewelry (rings, earrings), industrial cutting/grinding tools, and high-tech optics.
Geological facts
Cubic Zirconia is the most common diamond look-alike and was first synthesized in 1970. Diamond is the hardest known natural substance on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identify using a diamond tester or by checking for high dispersion (fire). Look for sharp facet edges and high refractive index. Natural diamonds are found in kimberlite pipes.
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