mineral

Diamond

Diamond (pure Carbon, C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Typically colorless but found in various hues; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions forming octahedrons; Specific gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Typically colorless but found in various hues
Luster: Adamantine

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle (150-200km deep) under extreme pressure and high temperature. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions known as kimberlite or lamproite pipes, often dating back 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry as gemstones; industrial uses include cutting tools, abrasives, and high-pressure anvils due to its extreme hardness and thermal conductivity.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance known on Earth. Famous specimens include the Cullinan and the Hope Diamond. The phrase 'A diamond is forever' was an icon marketing campaign by De Beers in 1947.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral) and its characteristic octahedral or dodecahedral natural shape. Common locations include South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.