mineral
Diamond
Carbon (C)
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (common) to various hues, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (Cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.53
Identified More mineral →
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 (common) to various hues, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (Cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.53
Formation & geological history
Formed under high temperature and pressure conditions deep within the Earth's mantle (140-190 km) over 1 to 3.5 billion years. Transported to the surface by deep-origin volcanic eruptions (kimberlite or lamproite pipes).
Uses & applications
Commonly used in high-end jewelry (engagement rings), industrial cutting, grinding, and drilling tools, and as thermal conductors in electronics.
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man. Most natural diamonds are billions of years old. The word comes from the Greek 'adamas', meaning unbreakable.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its extreme hardness, high refractive index (brilliance), and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in alluvial deposits or within kimberlite pipes in locations like South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock