mineral
Rough Diamond
Diamond (Native Carbon, C)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to pale yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine (greasy in rough state); Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (often octahedral or rounded dodecahedral); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51
- Hardness
- 10 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Colorless to pale yellow/brown
- Luster
- Adamantine (greasy in rough state)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Colorless to pale yellow/brown; Luster: Adamantine (greasy in rough state); Crystal Structure: Isometric-Hexoctahedral (often octahedral or rounded dodecahedral); Cleavage: Perfect in four directions; Specific Gravity: 3.51
Formation & geological history
Formed under extreme pressure and temperature conditions deep in the Earth's mantle (150-250km deep). They are brought to the surface by kimberlite and lamproite volcanic eruptions. Most are 1 to 3.5 billion years old.
Uses & applications
Primary use in high-end jewelry (when cut and polished) and industrial applications such as cutting, grinding, and drilling due to extreme hardness.
Geological facts
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material. While they are famous as gemstones, 80% of all diamonds mined are used for industrial purposes rather than jewelry.
Field identification & locations
Field identification of rough diamonds involves looking for an 'oily' or greasy luster, high specific gravity (feels heavy for its size), and the ability to scratch any other mineral. They are commonly found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits (river beds).
