mineral

Diamond

Carbon (C)

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale); Color: Typically colorless but found in various yellow, brown, and rare fancy hues; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Perfect octahedral; Specific gravity: 3.52

Hardness: 10 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed under extreme pressure and high temperature in the Earth's mantle, approximately 100 miles underground. Transported to the surface by kimberlite and lamproite volcanic pipes. Often billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primary use in fine jewelry and gemstones. Industrial uses include cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to extreme hardness. Also used in high-end electronics and scientific research.

Geological facts

Diamond is the hardest natural substance known on Earth. Many famous diamonds, such as the Hope Diamond, have storied histories and are believed to be over 1 billion years old.

Field identification & locations

Identification in the field is difficult without lab equipment, but researchers look for high thermal conductivity and adamantine luster. Commonly located in cratons (ancient continental crust) such as those in South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.