mineral

Raw Diamond

Diamond (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless to brownish/yellowish, Luster: Adamantine to greasy (when rough), Crystal system: Isometric-hexoctahedral, Cleavage: Perfect octahedral, Specific Gravity: 3.51

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the Earth's mantle, approximately 150-250 kilometers deep. Transported to the surface by kimberlite or lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.

Uses & applications

Used in high-end jewelry (after cutting), industrial abrasives, cutting tools, drill bits, and specialized scientific/technological components due to thermal conductivity and hardness.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest known natural substance. The name comes from the Greek word 'adamas', meaning unbreakable. Some diamonds originated from meteorites but most are terrestrial.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by any other mineral), greasy luster on uncut surfaces, and occurrence in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits. Collectors look for well-defined octahedrons.