mineral

Rough Diamond

Diamond (Native Carbon), C

Hardness: 10 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow to colorless; Luster: Adamantine to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.51

Hardness: 10 (Mohs)
Color: Pale yellow to colorless
Luster: Adamantine to greasy

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 10 (Mohs); Color: Pale yellow to colorless; Luster: Adamantine to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.51

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle (150-250 km deep), then transported to the surface via kimberlite or lamproite volcanic pipes. Most primary deposits range from 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry as a gemstone after cutting; industrial applications include high-precision cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness; used in high-tech electronics as a heat sink.

Geological facts

Diamonds are the hardest known natural material. This specimen displays the characteristic rounded dodecahedral or 'tetrahexahedroid' shape common in rough diamonds that have undergone slight resorption during their ascent to the surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high specific gravity, extreme hardness (it will scratch all other minerals), and greasy luster when rough. Common locations include South Africa, Botswana, Russia (Siberia), Canada, and Australia.