mineral

Silicon Carbide (Carborundum)

Silicon Carbide (SiC) / Moissanite (natural)

Hardness: 9-9.5, Color: Iridescent blue, green, purple, black, Luster: Adamantine to metallic, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Specific Gravity: 3.21

Hardness: 9-9

Identified May 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 9-9.5, Color: Iridescent blue, green, purple, black, Luster: Adamantine to metallic, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal, Specific Gravity: 3.21

Formation & geological history

Almost all specimens found in commerce are man-made via the Acheson process (heating silica sand and carbon). Natural Moissanite is exceptionally rare and found in meteorites or upper mantle inclusions.

Uses & applications

Used industrially as an abrasive (sandpaper, cutting tools), in semiconductors, high-temperature ceramics, and as a diamond simulant in jewelry.

Geological facts

It is one of the hardest known substances. The iridescence is caused by a thin layer of silicon dioxide that forms on the surface through oxidation.

Field identification & locations

Identify by extreme hardness (scratches glass/gemstones) and brilliant rainbow-colored metallic iridescence. It is not found in nature as large crystals visible to the naked eye.

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