gemstone
Diamond
C
Hardness: 10, Color: Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Cubic, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific gravity: 3.52
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10, Color: Colorless, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Cubic, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed deep in the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and temperature, brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions in rocks called kimberlites and lamproites
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry for its exceptional brilliance and durability; also used in industrial applications for cutting and polishing
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material on Earth. The most famous diamond is the Hope Diamond.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches all other minerals), high refractive index, and typical cubic crystal shape (when uncut). Found in locations such as South Africa, Russia, Botswana, and Canada.
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Other gemstone specimens
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
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Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
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Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral