Graphite
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Mineral NameGraphite
Chemical FormulaC
Mohs Hardness1
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorblack to dark gray
Cleavageperfect basal (one direction)
Fractureuneven to splintery
Specific Gravity2.23
Colorsblack, dark gray, silvery gray
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide; notable localities include Sri Lanka, China, Brazil, Canada, Russia.
Mineral GroupNative Elements
Useslead pencils, lubricants, electrodes, refractories, batteries
Associated Mineralsquartz, mica, feldspar, calcite, tourmaline
Raritycommon
Description
Graphite is a soft, black to dark gray mineral with a greasy feel, characterized by its layered structure and metallic to dull luster.
Geological Context
It forms in metamorphic rocks (e.g., marble, schist, gneiss) from the metamorphism of carbonaceous sediments, or in igneous rocks such as pegmatites and kimberlites. It can also occur in hydrothermal veins.
