mineral
Diamond
Native Carbon (C)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown) but can be yellow, brown, or blue, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific Gravity: 3.52
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown) but can be yellow, brown, or blue, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific Gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed at high temperatures and pressures at depths of 140 to 190 kilometers in the Earth's mantle. Transported to the surface via deep-source volcanic eruptions called kimberlites and lamproites. Most are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces), industrial abrasives for cutting, drilling, and grinding, and high-performance heat sinks in electronics.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. The name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning unbreakable. It is the only gemstone made of a single element (carbon).
Field identification & locations
Identify using a combination of hardness, high refractive index (brilliance), and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in alluvial deposits or kimberlite pipes in South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
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