gemstone
Diamond
Carbon (C)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions (octahedral), Specific Gravity: 3.52
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 (in this specimen), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic, Cleavage: Perfect in four directions (octahedral), Specific Gravity: 3.52
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle (150-250km deep) billions of years ago. Transported to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions called kimberlites.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (engagement rings) and as a high-end investment. Industrial applications include cutting tools, drill bits, and abrasives due to extreme hardness.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Most diamonds found today are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its brilliance, fire (dispersion), and ability to scratch any other material. Commonly found in South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Botswana. Collectors look for the 'Four Cs': Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
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
gemstone
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral