Gemstone profile and identification guide

Diamond

Diamond is a Colourless, White native element prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.

10 Mohs Colourless / Clear, White Native Element

Overview

Diamond is a Colourless, White native element prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.

Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.

Identification

Name: Diamond

Scientific classification: Native Element

Hardness: 10 Mohs

Transparency: transparent

Lustre: vitreous

Crystal system: Isometric

Primary colour: Colourless / Clear

Secondary colour: White

Colour family: Neutrals

Physical Properties

Hardness category: very hard

Hardness value: 10 Mohs

Chemical composition: Carbon (C)

Crystal system: Isometric

Common locations: Africa, Russia, Canada, Australia

Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.

Colour Variations

Diamond is classified within the neutrals palette. Primary colour: colourless / clear. Secondary colour: white.

Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.

Formation

Formed deep within the Earth under extreme pressure and heat, then brought closer to the surface by volcanic eruptions.

Origin

Africa, Russia, Canada, Australia

Uses

Best for: Jewellery, displays, and design accents.

Ideal uses: Versatile collections and polished showcases.

Related gemstones by colour

Related gemstones by hardness

Commonly confused gemstones

Diamond FAQ

How can I identify Diamond?

Compare hardness (10 Mohs), crystal system (Isometric), colour profile, and lustre (vitreous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.

What colour range does Diamond appear in?

Diamond is classified within the neutrals palette. Primary colour: colourless / clear. Secondary colour: white.

Where is Diamond commonly used?

Versatile collections and polished showcases.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.