Graphite
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Mineral NameGraphite
Chemical FormulaC
Mohs Hardness1.5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorblack
Cleavageperfect basal
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity2.2
Colorsblack, dark gray, silvery gray
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide, with significant deposits in China, India, and Brazil.
Mineral GroupNative Elements
Usespencils, lubricants, electrodes, refractories, batteries
Associated Mineralsquartz, mica, feldspar, calcite
Raritycommon
Description
A soft, black to dark gray mineral with a greasy feel, often found in flaky or massive forms.
Geological Context
Graphite forms in metamorphic rocks from the metamorphism of carbonaceous material, and can also occur in igneous rocks as a primary mineral.
