* Naturally occurring: Minerals are formed by natural processes, not created in a lab.
* Inorganic: Minerals are not made of living organisms or their remains.
* Solid: Minerals have a definite shape and volume at room temperature.
* Crystalline structure: Minerals have a specific, repeating arrangement of atoms, which gives them their characteristic crystal shape.
* Definite chemical composition: Minerals have a specific chemical formula, indicating the elements that make up their structure.
So, while diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness and brilliance, they also possess these five key characteristics that define all minerals.
