Diamond
Diamond (Native Carbon) · Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); commonly occurs as octahedrons, dodecahedrons, and cubes; also found as contact or penetration twins (macles).
Mineral Group
Native Elements (non-metallic)
Chemical Formula
C (Pure Carbon, often with trace nitrogen or boron)
Formation Process
Formed under extreme high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle (140-190km) and brought to the surface by explosive volcanic eruptions.
About This Crystal
The specimen features multiple small, transparent, colorless faceted stones. They exhibit a brilliant, adamantine luster with high clarity and visible light dispersion (fire), set in a metallic pendant mount.
Physical Characteristics
Colorless; white streak; perfect octahedral cleavage in four directions; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity 3.52; brittle tenacity; often fluoresces blue under longwave UV light.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive (isotropic); Refractive Index 2.417; high dispersion (0.044) causing spectral fire; adamantine luster; lacks pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Primary sources include Russia, Botswana, Canada, South Africa, and Angola; typically found in kimberlite and lamproite pipes or alluvial deposits.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 10 (the hardest natural material); exceptional durability for jewelry, though perfect cleavage makes it susceptible to chipping if struck at specific angles.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam; resistant to most chemicals but should be stored separately to avoid scratching other jewelry; attracts grease and requires regular degreasing.
Rarity & Value
Highly valued; price is determined by the "Four Cs" (Carat, cut, color, clarity); treatments like laser drilling or fracture filling are common for lower-grade stones; synthetic lab-grown versions are widely available.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional thermal conductivity (superior to metals); high refractive index and dispersion; potential blue or yellow fluorescence; inclusions often consist of olivine, garnet, or graphite.
Lore & History
Historically recognized as the 'king of gems' in ancient India and Greece; symbolizes purity, invincibility, and eternal love; traditionally associated with the Crown Chakra and used as the modern April birthstone.