mineral

Rough Diamond

Pure Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless, pale yellow, or faint pink; Luster: Adamantine to greasy (in rough state); Crystal structure: Cubic (isometric); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific Gravity: 3.51

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Color: Colorless, pale yellow, or faint pink
Luster: Adamantine to greasy (in rough state)

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and temperature conditions (90 to 120 miles deep) in the Earth's mantle. Transported to the surface via deep-source volcanic eruptions called kimberlite or lamproite pipes, typically billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for high-end jewelry (gem quality) and industrial applications such as cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural material. They are the only gemstone made of a single element. The name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning invincible or indestructible.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by their oily/greasy luster when unpolished and their ability to scratch any other material. Commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits in riverbeds in Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.