mineral

Diamond

Diamond (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown) to various shades, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Perfect octohedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Identified June 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless (as shown) to various shades, Luster: Adamantine, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Cleavage: Perfect octohedral, Specific Gravity: 3.52

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature in the Earth's mantle (150-250km deep) and brought to the surface via kimberlite eruptions. Ages range from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry due to rarity and brilliance; industrial use in cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance. The most famous specimen is the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found.

Field identification & locations

Identify by extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), high refractive index (brilliance), and thermal conductivity. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in Africa, Russia, and Canada.