gemstone
Diamond (or Simulant)
Carbon (C) or relevant simulant formula (e.g., ZrO2 for Cubic Zirconia)
Hardness 10 (Diamond) or varies (simulants), colorless/white, adamantine luster, cubic crystal system (Diamond). Highly faceted cut.
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Physical properties
Hardness 10 (Diamond) or varies (simulants), colorless/white, adamantine luster, cubic crystal system (Diamond). Highly faceted cut.
Formation & geological history
Natural diamonds form deep in the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature. Simulants are man-made.
Uses & applications
Jewelry, industrial cutting and grinding tools (if diamond).
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest known natural material. It is composed of pure carbon.
Field identification & locations
Identify via thermal conductivity, refractometer, and specific gravity. Often requires professional gemological testing to distinguish from simulants.
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Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Black Opal Ring (Carved Opal)
Hydrated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2·nH2O)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
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