gemstone
Diamond (or Simulant)
Carbon (C)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Diamond (or Simulant) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, approximately 100 miles below the surface, brought to the crust by kimberlite eruptions.
Uses & applications
Primary use in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces), and industrial applications for cutting, grinding, and drilling due to extreme hardness.
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance. The Hope Diamond is one of the most famous specimens, known for its deep blue color and storied history.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high refractive index and dispersion (fire). In a lab setting, thermal conductivity and UV fluorescence are used to distinguish it from simulants like Cubic Zirconia or Moissanite.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Citrine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron impurities
mineral
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2 with iron oxide inclusions)
mineral
Amber
Succinrite (Organic Gemstone)
mineraloid