mineral

Diamond (in Gold Jewelry)

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (clear); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral; Specific gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless (clear)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified January 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless (clear); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric-hexoctahedral; Specific gravity: 3.52.

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme high pressure and temperature (approx. 150 km deep), then transported to the surface by deep-seated volcanic eruptions known as kimberlite pipes; Geological age varies from 1 to 3.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in high-end jewelry (engagement rings, necklaces), but also essential in industry for cutting tools, drill bits, and abrasives due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. It is composed of a single element, carbon, arranged in a crystal lattice structure that makes it incredibly strong.

Field identification & locations

In the field, it is identified by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral), high refractive index (brilliance), and high thermal conductivity; common locations include South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.