mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown (jewelry grade), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified January 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown (jewelry grade), Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme high-pressure, high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle, approximately 150 to 200 kilometers below the surface; brought to the surface by explosive volcanic eruptions creating kimberlite pipes.

Uses & applications

Primary use in high-end jewelry and engagement rings; industrial applications include cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness; used in high-pressure scientific experiments.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Most natural diamonds are between 1 billion and 3.5 billion years old. The name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning invincible.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral), high refractive index (brilliance), and specific octahedral crystal shape; typically found in kimberlite pipes (South Africa, Russia, Canada) or alluvial deposits.