gemstone
Diamond
Native Carbon (C)
Mohs hardness of 10, colorless/transparent with intense dispersion and fire, adamantine luster, isometric/cubic crystal system, octahedral cleavage, specific gravity 3.52.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 10, colorless/transparent with intense dispersion and fire, adamantine luster, isometric/cubic crystal system, octahedral cleavage, specific gravity 3.52.
Formation & geological history
Formed under high temperature and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle (100+ miles below the surface) billions of years ago and brought near the surface by kimberlite and lamproite volcanic eruptions.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in fine jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings) and in industrial applications like cutting tools, drills, and abrasives due to its ultimate hardness.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance known to science. It consists of pure carbon atoms arranged in a strong, three-dimensional tetrahedral lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by exceptional brilliance, fire, extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), and high thermal conductivity. Major deposits are in Russia, Botswana, Canada, and South Africa.
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Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
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Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone
Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
gemstone