gemstone
Diamond
Carbon (C)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in 4 directions), Specific Gravity: 3.51
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Diamond in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in 4 directions), Specific Gravity: 3.51
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle (150-250km deep) roughly 1 to 3.5 billion years ago. They are brought to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions called kimberlites.
Uses & applications
Primary use in high-end jewelry (engagement rings) and industrial applications such as cutting, grinding, and drilling due to its unrivaled hardness.
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material. Only another diamond can scratch a diamond. They were first recognized and mined in India at least 3,000 to 6,000 years ago.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its high refractive index, extreme hardness (scratch test against other minerals), and ability to conduct heat. Commonly found in alluvial deposits or kimberlite pipes in Russia, Botswana, and Canada.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Black Opal Ring (Carved Opal)
Hydrated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2·nH2O)
gemstone