Mineral Guide · Mineral

Graphite

Graphite is a layered carbon mineral with a metallic grey colour, perfect basal cleavage and electrical conductivity.

Interactive 3D structure

Crystal structure

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Mineral properties

Formula: C
Class: Native elements
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Typical colours: black, steel grey
Lustre: Earthy, Metallic
Hardness: 1.00-2.00
Specific gravity: 2.10-2.30
Crystal habit: Foliated, Massive, Platy
Origin: high-grade metamorphic rocks, marbles, gneisses, schists and igneous carbon-rich environments

What is Graphite?

Graphite is a layered carbon mineral with a metallic grey colour, perfect basal cleavage and electrical conductivity.

Mineralogy and structure

Reference formula: C. Graphite has a layered hexagonal structure. Weak bonding between layers explains its softness, lubricity and ability to leave a grey mark. Graphite belongs to the native elements and has a hexagonal crystal system. Typical hardness is 1–2 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 2.1–2.3.

Colour and appearance

Typical colours include steel grey, black. The usual platy, foliated, massive habit and metallic, earthy lustre are useful descriptive features, but colour alone is not diagnostic.

Formation and localities

Graphite forms in or is associated with high-grade metamorphic rocks, marbles, gneisses, schists and igneous carbon-rich environments. Important documented localities include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Brazil, China, Canada, Norway and the United States.

Collecting and care

Very soft and marks surfaces; keep in a closed specimen box and away from polished minerals.

Sources and editorial review

Reviewed by NotOnlyRocks Editorial Team

Last reviewed: 31 August 2026

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