gemstone
Diamond
C (Carbon)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (clear), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic (isometric), Specific Gravity: 3.52.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (clear), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic (isometric), Specific Gravity: 3.52.
Formation & geological history
Formed under high temperature and pressure conditions deep in the Earth's mantle, brought to the surface by kimberlite volcanic eruptions over billions of years.
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 natural substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.
Field identification & locations
Identify by extreme hardness and high refractive index (brilliance/fire). Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in regions like Russia, Botswana, and Canada.
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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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