Diamond in Matrix
Carbon var. Diamond · Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric), octahedral crystal habit
Mineral Group
Native Elements
Chemical Formula
C
Formation Process
Igneous and deep mantle processes under ultra-high pressure and high temperature (approximately 150 kilometers below the Earth's surface)
About This Crystal
A small, octahedral diamond crystal embedded within a dark, granular kimberlite or lamproite matrix. The diamond displays a yellowish tint, sharp geometric faces, and a distinct adamantine luster, contrasting sharply with the dull, dark host rock.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from colorless to pale yellow; streak is colorless; cleavage is perfect octahedral in four directions; fracture is conchoidal; specific gravity is approximately 3.52 g/cm3; tenacity is brittle; highly resistant to chemicals and thermal shock
Optical Properties
Singly refractive (isotropic); high refractive index of 2.417; exceptional dispersion (fire) of 0.044; strong adamantine luster
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Yakutia (Russia), Botswana, Australia, and Canadian Northwest Territories; found in kimberlite and lamproite pipes
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 10 (maximum hardness on the scale); exceptional durability and scratch resistance, though susceptible to cleavage along crystal planes under sharp impacts
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush or specialized jewelry cleaner; ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for solid diamonds, but matrix specimens should be handled with care to avoid detaching the host rock; store separately to prevent scratching other stones
Rarity & Value
Rare and highly valuable as a complete specimen in its native matrix; value is determined by the size, clarity, and color of the diamond crystal, as well as the aesthetic quality of the host matrix
Special Characteristics
Displays natural crystal growth forms such as octahedral habit; may exhibit blue, yellow, or white fluorescence under longwave and shortwave UV light
Lore & History
Historically revered as a symbol of invincibility, eternal love, and purity; ancient cultures believed diamonds possessed divine power and protection; in modern crystal lore, it is associated with the crown chakra, clarity of mind, and amplification of energy (noted as traditional beliefs rather than scientific claims)