Diamond
Image: Gump Stump (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameDiamond
Chemical FormulaC
Mohs Hardness10
Crystal Systemcubic
Lusteradamantine
Streak Colorcolorless
Cleavageperfect octahedral
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity3.52
Colorswhite
Transparencytransparent
Mineral GroupNative elements
Usesjewelry, industrial, collector
Associated Mineralsolivine, pyroxene, garnet, ilmenite, phlogopite
Rarityrare
Description
This image shows a microscopic view of one face of a rough, octahedral white diamond, exhibiting characteristic triangular growth features known as trigons on its surface. The diamond is 0.9 carats and is of high clarity.
Geological Context
Diamonds form under immense pressure and temperature deep within the Earth's mantle, typically at depths of 150-200 km. They are brought to the surface rapidly by explosive volcanic eruptions through kimberlite and lamproite pipes.
