mineral

Graphite

Graphite (Carbon, C)

Mohs hardness of 1 to 2; color ranges from steel-gray to black; metallic to earthy luster; hexagonal crystal system; perfect basal cleavage; specific gravity of 2.09 to 2.23.

Identified July 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness of 1 to 2; color ranges from steel-gray to black; metallic to earthy luster; hexagonal crystal system; perfect basal cleavage; specific gravity of 2.09 to 2.23.

Formation & geological history

Forms through the metamorphism of carbon-rich organic materials in sedimentary rocks (regional metamorphism) or as a mineral in igneous and pegmatitic rocks, often billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used in pencils, lubricants, lithium-ion battery anodes, refractories, and in nuclear reactors as a neutron moderator.

Geological facts

Graphite is one of the allotropes of carbon, alongside diamond and fullerenes. Despite both being made entirely of carbon, graphite is extremely soft while diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its extremely low hardness (leaves a black mark on paper), greasy feel, and metallic gray color. Commonly found in metamorphic rocks worldwide, notably in China, India, Brazil, and Canada.