gemstone

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically colorless, but can be yellow, brown, blue, green, pink, etc. Luster: Adamantine. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Specific gravity: 3.50-3.53.

Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Adamantine

Identified August 2, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale. Color: Typically colorless, but can be yellow, brown, blue, green, pink, etc. Luster: Adamantine. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Specific gravity: 3.50-3.53.

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150 to 250 kilometers (93 to 155 mi). Brought to the surface via deep-source volcanic eruptions involving kimberlite and lamproite magmas. Geological age ranges from 1 billion to over 3 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry (gemstone rings, necklaces), high-end timepieces, and industrial applications such as cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural material on Earth. They are thermal conductors and are billions of years old, often predating most plant and animal life on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), high refractive index resulting in exceptional brilliance and fire, and adamantine luster. Commonly found in South Africa, Russia, Botswana, Canada, and Australia.