Diamond
Carbon var. Diamond · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric), typically forming octahedrons, cubes, or rounded dodecahedrons
Mineral Group
Native Elements
Chemical Formula
C
Formation Process
High-pressure, high-temperature metamorphic environments deep within the Earth's mantle (approx 150-200 km deep), brought to the surface via deep-source volcanic eruptions (kimberlites)
About This Crystal
A princess-cut center diamond surrounded by a halo of smaller melee diamonds, set in a multi-row pave band. The stones exhibit high brilliance, scintillation, and adamantine luster typical of faceted diamonds.
Physical Characteristics
Colorless to fancy colors, white streak, perfect octahedral cleavage in four directions, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 3.52, brittle tenacity, inert to magnetic fields, some specimens fluoresce blue under UV light
Optical Properties
Singly refractive (isotropic), high refractive index of 2.417, extremely high dispersion (0.044) producing intense fire and spectral flashes
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Russia, Canada, Australia, Botswana; found in kimberlite pipes and alluvial deposits
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 10 (maximum hardness), exceptional durability and wearability, though susceptible to cleavage along specific planes if struck sharply
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water, ultra-sonic cleaners (with caution for included stones), store away from other hard gems to prevent scratching other materials
Rarity & Value
Varies significantly based on the 4Cs (Carat, Cut, Clarity, Color); gem-grade natural diamonds are rare and valued as precious gemstones
Special Characteristics
Exceptional dispersion and brilliance, high thermal conductivity, occasional natural fluorescence, and high adamantine luster
Lore & History
Historically regarded as a symbol of eternal love, strength, and invincibility; widely used in modern engagement rings and traditional healing lore as a master healer stone associated with the crown chakra