mineral

Silicon Carbide (Carborundum)

Silicon Carbide (SiC)

Hardness: 9.0–9.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black with metallic/iridescent rainbow sheen; Luster: Adamantine to metallic; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal (most common in synthetic); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 3.21

Hardness: 9
Color: Black with metallic/iridescent rainbow sheen
Luster: Adamantine to metallic

Identified April 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Rarely occurs in nature as the mineral moissanite in meteorites or kimberlites. Most commercial specimens are synthetic, produced via the Acheson process by heating silica sand and carbon at high temperatures (1700-2500°C).

Uses & applications

Industrial abrasive, cutting tools, semiconductor in electronics, high-temperature ceramics, and widely sold as decorative mineral specimens for collectors.

Geological facts

Naturally occurring silicon carbide (Moissanite) is extremely rare on Earth and was first discovered in a meteor crater. The iridescent 'rainbow' effect on synthetic specimens is due to a thin layer of silicon dioxide that forms on the surface.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its extreme hardness (will scratch glass and quartz easily) and its unique sharp, needle-like crystal clusters with a dark, colorful sheen. Commonly found in rock shops and museum gift stores rather than naturally in the field.

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