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Find real raw diamonds: identification tests and prospecting tips. Raw diamonds, also known as 'rough' diamonds, have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from other stones. You can start with a visual evaluation, noting their unpolished, rough surface and natural diamond crystal forms like octahedral (two pyramids base-to-base), dodecahedral, or cubic shapes, which often show triangular faces. Real rough diamonds may appear cloudy, opaque, or translucent due to inclusions, and often possess a unique "greasy luster diamond" or "adamantine luster". Be wary of quartz diamond crystals (like "Herkimer diamonds"), which have hexagonal shapes and are much softer. To definitively identify rough diamonds, perform several tests: 1. Diamond Scratch Test: Diamonds, rated 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, will scratch a piece of corundum (hardness 9). 2. Diamond Tester: These handheld devices measure thermal and electric conductivity, as real diamonds rapidly disperse heat. 3. Specific Gravity Test (Gravity Test Diamond): Diamonds have a density of 3.5 - 3.53 g/cm3. You can perform this by dividing the stone's weight by its weight suspended in water. 4. Water Test Diamond: Place a suspected diamond on the water's surface; if it floats or doesn't adhere, it might be a rough diamond, reflecting its unique surface properties. (It is important to note that a real diamond also sinks in a glass of water due to its high density). 5. For advanced evaluation, consider a microscope or loupe, or seek gemologist help for a definitive assessment. Diamonds form deep within the Earth's mantle and are brought to the surface through violent volcanic eruptions in structures called kimberlite pipes. These primary sources are found in ancient, stable parts of continental crust known as cratons. Diamonds can also be found in alluvial diamonds deposits like riverbeds and stream channels, formed when kimberlite pipes erode. Diamond prospecting often involves searching for indicator minerals such as chromium-rich pyrope garnet (reddish to purple), chromium diopside (bright green), magnesium-rich ilmenite (black, metallic), and chromite, which are more abundant than diamonds and signal their presence. Major diamond-producing regions globally include Russia, Botswana diamonds, Canadian diamonds, Angola, and Sierra Leone diamonds. You can even experience diamond mining firsthand at locations like the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where visitors can dig for and keep their finds. Prospecting methods include panning and diamond sluicing. The diamond grease table method, utilizing diamonds' oily exterior to stick to Vaseline, is also effective for recovery. While finding diamonds can be challenging, combining geological knowledge with proper techniques enhances your chances in diamond exploration. Understand the rough diamond value and how it's determined by factors like the "four C's" (cut, carat, clarity, color). Be aware of real vs fake gems and synthetic diamonds, which can mimic natural ones but lack the same origin. Protect your investment and confidently explore the exciting world of raw diamonds! P. Geo. Ricardo A Valls, M. Sc. and Geo Gadfly Valls Geoconsultant ORCID ID- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5421-0914 Scopus Author ID: 7003369619/35335510700 ResearcherID: S-6604-2018 If you like this content, please "buy me a coffee" https://www.buymeacoffee.com/goldendroplets