Minecraft wiki entry for Diamonds, associated text: When descending to the deepest part of the underground (level 10 to 12 are the best levels to find them in version 1.17 and below, in versions 1.18+ level -59 is the best), to find diamonds the player must have an iron, diamond, or netherite pickaxe in order to mine diamonds (bringing 2 or more is a good idea, in case one breaks), food, and some torches to prevent mobs from spawning. Additionally, a water bucket to convert lava into obsidian and to remove the burning status from falling into lava, a crafting table to make mineral blocks and furnaces, a sword to fight off mobs, and a shovel to remove dirt and gravel, and armor to reduce lava and monster damage are recommended.