gemstone
Diamond
Carbon (C)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (represented here), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (represented here), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature at depths of 140 to 190 kilometers in the Earth's mantle over periods of 1 to 3.3 billion years. They are brought to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions called kimberlites.
Uses & applications
High-end jewelry, industrial abrasives, cutting tools, and investment collecting.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest natural material known to man. It consists of pure carbon arranged in a crystal lattice that gives it its extraordinary strength and refractive index.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its ability to scratch Mohs 9 materials like Corundum, its high thermal conductivity, and its brilliance (refractive index). In nature, they are found in Kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits.
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Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
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Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
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Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
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Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
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Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
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