mineral

Rough Diamond

Diamond (C)

Hardness: 10 on Mohs scale (hardest known natural substance). Color: Clear/colorless with slight brownish or greenish inclusion. Luster: Adamantine. Crystal system: Cubic (Isometric), displaying typical octahedral or rounded dodecahedral habit. Specific gravity: 3.52.

Hardness: 10 on Mohs scale (hardest known natural substance)
Color: Clear/colorless with slight brownish or greenish inclusion
Luster: Adamantine

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under conditions of extreme heat and pressure (typically at depths of 150-200 kilometers). Brought to the surface through deep-origin volcanic eruptions via kimberlite and lamproite pipes.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as a high-value gemstone in fine jewelry and industrially for cutting, grinding, drilling, and polishing tools due to its extreme hardness.

Geological facts

Diamonds are composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a rigid crystal lattice. Small rough diamonds like this are often sourced from alluvial deposits or kimberlite mining operations worldwide.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme hardness (scratches all other minerals), greasy-to-adamantine luster, isometric habit, and resistance to chemical weathering. Major producers include Russia, Botswana, Canada, Australia, and South Africa.