gemstone
Diamond
Carbon (C)
Mohs hardness 10 (hardest known natural substance). Colorless to light yellow tint. Adamantine luster. Isometric/cubic crystal structure. Perfect octahedral cleavage. Specific gravity 3.52.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 10 (hardest known natural substance). Colorless to light yellow tint. Adamantine luster. Isometric/cubic crystal structure. Perfect octahedral cleavage. Specific gravity 3.52.
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle (100 to 150 miles down) billions of years ago, then brought to the surface via deep-source volcanic eruptions forming kimberlite pipes.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in fine jewelry such as engagement rings and wedding bands. Industrially used for cutting, grinding, drilling, and polishing due to its unparalleled hardness.
Geological facts
Diamond is a native element mineral composed of pure carbon arranged in a tetrahedral lattice, making it exceptionally hard and highly refractive.
Field identification & locations
Identified by extreme hardness, high brilliance, and dispersion (fire). Commonly found in kimberlite pipes and alluvial deposits in Russia, Botswana, Canada, South Africa, and Australia.
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Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
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Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
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Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
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Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
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Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
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