gemstone
Diamond
Diamond (pure carbon, C)
Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: colorless when pure; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Cubic; Specific gravity: 3.52.
- Hardness
- 10 Mohs
- Color
- colorless when pure
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 Mohs; Color: colorless when pure; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Cubic; Specific gravity: 3.52.
Formation & geological history
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme high pressure and temperature over 1-3 billion years ago, brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in fine jewelry (engagement rings) and industrially as an abrasive for cutting, drilling, and grinding.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. It is composed of a single element (carbon) arranged in an extremely strong lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its brilliance, fire (dispersion), and ability to scratch any other material. Found in cratons such as those in Botswana, Russia, 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)
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Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
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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)
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