DIAMOND
Diamond
Diamond
A gemstone composed of carbon, known for high hardness and the reflection and dispersion of light through its polished facets.
GEM PROFILE
Basic properties
- Mineral or material
- Diamond
- Main chemical composition
- C
- Crystal & structure
- Cubic (isometric)
Octahedral crystal forms are well known. Diamond has cleavage directions along which it can split.
- Typical colors
- Colorless, yellow, brown, pink, blue and other colors
- Mohs hardness
- 10
A measure of scratch resistance, distinct from resistance to impact or breakage.
About hardness and durability - Representative sources
Examples of known sources. Determining the origin of an individual stone requires examination and comparison with reference material.
- Common cutting styles
- Round brilliant, princess, emerald and many other cuts. Outline shape and facet arrangement are separate descriptions.
Explore cutting styles
LOOK A LITTLE CLOSER
What to observe
The 4Cs—color, clarity, cut and carat weight—are familiar factors in diamond quality. A carat is a unit of weight.
TREATMENT & CARE
Treatments & care
Treatments & identification
Treatments can alter color or apparent clarity. Laboratory-grown diamonds also exist; separating them from natural diamonds requires examination.
Everyday care
Hardness 10 does not prevent chipping under a strong impact. Remove dirt with a soft cloth or gentle cleaning, and check the security of the setting.
Cleaning depends on treatment, inclusions and mounting. If a stone's condition is unknown, ask your jeweler or a gem specialist before cleaning.
READING & REFERENCES
References
Public sources for learning about this gemstone's general properties.
This dictionary provides general educational information. Values are representative and do not identify or grade an individual stone. Locality examples include historical deposits.
Sources checked: October 19, 2026