mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear/Colorless to pale yellow, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific gravity: 3.52

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear/Colorless to pale yellow, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral (cubic), Cleavage: Perfect in four directions, Specific gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-200 kilometers, and brought to the surface by kimberlite eruptions.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry as gemstones, and in industry for cutting, grinding, and drilling due to extreme hardness. Also used in high-pressure scientific research.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural material. They are composed of a single element: Carbon. The oldest diamonds are estimated to be over 3 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identify by extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals) and high refractive index (brilliance). Found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in locations like South Africa, Russia, and Canada.