About
Graphite is rather common mineral, but fine crystals are rare. Most Graphite mining areas produce enormous quantities from a single or several large Graphite veins, but collector specimens in good crystals are not commonly encountered.
Much care should be given to Graphite specimens, especially thin crystals, which are fragile. It may be difficult to wash crystals, as they easily peel off and get ruined. Graphite will also smudge on its surface, and can get worn out if it is moved around too much. It also smudges the hand when handled, and will smudge a label or cardboard box if stored in one.
Crystal Forms & Aggregates
Other ID Marks
2) Smudges the hands when touched.
3) Good conductor of electricity (though a poor conductor of heat).
Striking Features
Environment
Varieties
✓ common · ✗ uncommon
- Chaoite— Rare hexagonal polymorph of Graphite and Diamond formed only in a meteoric environment where extreme heat and pressure caused it to form. To date, it is only found in Mottigen, Ries Crater, in Bavaria, Germany. As it differs in crystal structure, Chaoite is scientifically categorized as an individual mineral species.
Polymorphs
Uses
Noteworthy Localities
In the U.S., extensive commercial Graphite deposits exist in Ticonderoga, Essex Co., New York, and in Clay Co., Alabama. Graphite as small flakes and plates is common in the Franklin Marble Belt, specifically at Amity, Orange Co., New York, and across the state border at Franklin, Ogdensburg, and Sparta, Sussex Co., New Jersey. Crystal masses and large plates have also come from the Hudson Highlands region, especially near Stony Point, Rockland County, New York. A new, significant find of this mineral is Rossie, St. Lawrence Co., New York. Graphite crystal flecks have been found at the French Creek mine Chester Co., Pennsylvania; at Bisbee, Cochise Co., Arizona; and at Crestmore, Riverside Co., California.
Common Mineral Associations
Distinguishing Similar Minerals
Photos
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