What is Diamond?
Diamond is the cubic crystalline form of carbon and the hardest natural mineral, prized for exceptional lustre, durability and wide scientific importance.
Mineralogy and structure
The reference formula is C. The diamond structure is a three-dimensional framework of strongly bonded carbon atoms, which explains its hardness and high thermal conductivity.
Colour and appearance
Typical colours include colourless, yellow, brown, blue, pink, green, black. Its octahedral, cubic, twinning habit and adamantine lustre are useful descriptive features, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and localities
Diamond forms in or is associated with deep mantle rocks, kimberlite and alluvial deposits, with additional impact and metamorphic occurrences. Important documented localities include Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Russia, Canada, Australia and Brazil.
Collecting and care
Diamond is best kept as a labelled reference or collector specimen. Protect fragile crystals from impact and avoid cutting or grinding unknown material. Lead-, arsenic-, vanadium- and copper-bearing specimens are for display and careful handling only.
Diamond in popular symbolism
Some modern crystal guides associate Diamond with zodiac signs or symbolic themes based on colour, locality or collecting tradition. These associations vary between sources and are cultural interpretations, not mineralogical or medical properties.
