gemstone
Diamond (or Diamond Simulant)
Carbon (C) if diamond, various if simulant (e.g., Cubic Zirconia ZrO2)
If diamond: Hardness 10, colorless, adamantine luster. If CZ: Hardness 8-8.5, colorless, sub-adamantine luster.
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Physical properties
If diamond: Hardness 10, colorless, adamantine luster. If CZ: Hardness 8-8.5, colorless, sub-adamantine luster.
Formation & geological history
Diamonds form deep in the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature over billions of years, brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions. Simulants like CZ are lab-grown.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry. Industrial uses for diamonds include cutting and grinding tools.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest known natural material. It is often cut with facets to maximize brilliance and fire.
Field identification & locations
Identify by a jeweler using a thermal conductivity probe (diamond tester). Scratch tests can damage simulants.
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Other gemstone specimens
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
gemstone
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral