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Mathematician Theorizes a Crystal As Beautiful As A Diamond

Posted by Zonk on from the i-prefer-my-stones-blood-free-thanks dept.

Roland Piquepaille writes "Why are diamonds so shiny and beautiful? A Japanese mathematician says it's because of their unique crystal structure and two key properties, called 'maximal symmetry' and 'strong isotropic property.' According to the American Mathematical Society (AMS), he found that out of all the crystals that are possible to construct mathematically, just one shares these two properties with the diamond. So far, his K4 crystal exists only as a mathematical object. And nobody knows if it exists — or if it can be synthesized."

2 of 302 comments (clear)

  1. Feh! by Freshly+Exhumed · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    K4 crystals? 'Some places that's what people use for money. They're easy to carry, and they don't wear out.' -- Klaatu

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    I deny that I have not avoided attaining the opposite of that which I do not want.
  2. Diamonds and Lasers are a Geek's Best Friend? by Doc+Ruby · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    I've got a 1.1ct brilliant cut round diamond with strong flourescence, and a brand new 200mW 532nm (green) laser pointer (and a .25ct diamond of the same shape). What can I do with them that's as fun for me as getting the diamonds was for my wife?

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    make install -not war