gemstone

Diamond ring

Diamond, crystalline carbon (C), set in a metal ring

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Diamonds have Mohs hardness 10, adamantine luster, cubic crystal structure, excellent thermal conductivity, and usually colorless-to-near-colorless appearance. The pictured stones are faceted and mounted, though their identity cannot be confirmed from the image alone.

Identified August 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural diamonds crystallize deep in Earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and temperature, commonly 1–3.5 billion years ago, then reach the surface through kimberlite or lamproite eruptions; laboratory-grown diamonds have the same composition.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry and, industrially, for cutting, drilling, and abrasives. Value depends strongly on carat weight, color, clarity, cut, certification, and whether the stones are natural or lab-grown.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural mineral but can chip along cleavage planes. Visual inspection cannot reliably distinguish natural, lab-grown, or simulant stones; gemological testing is required.

Field identification & locations

Look for high brilliance, sharp facet edges, and possible inclusions, but confirm with a jeweler or gem laboratory; cubic zirconia and moissanite are common simulants. Major sources include Botswana, Canada, Russia, South Africa, and Australia.