mineral

Diamond (in a jewelry setting)

Diamond (Carbon, C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to faint yellow/brown, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Octahedral (perfect in four directions), Specific Gravity: 3.51-3.53

Identified March 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed deep in the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and high temperatures, then transported to the surface by kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 billion to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry; also used extensively in industry for cutting tools, drill bits, and abrasives due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance known to man. Highly valued specimens include the Hope Diamond and the Cullinan Diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its ability to scratch all other minerals and its high dispersion (fire). Commonly found in alluvial deposits or within kimberlite pipes. Collectors should look for 'kimberlite indicators' like garnet and ilmenite when field prospecting.