gemstone
Diamond
Natural Diamond (Carbon, C)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52
- Hardness
- 10 Mohs
- Color
- Colorless (in this specimen)
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle (100+ miles deep) over billions of years, then transported to the surface by kimberlite volcanic eruptions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in high-end jewelry and industrial applications for cutting, grinding, and drilling due to extreme hardness.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest known natural substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high refractive index (brilliance), extreme hardness, and ability to scratch any other material. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
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