Where is Silicon Carbide found?
Silicon Carbide (SiC)
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Open the appSilicon Carbide occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Silicon Carbide
Canyon Diablo Meteorite, Arizona, USA
One of the earliest and most significant discoveries of natural moissanite was in this iron meteorite, confirming its extraterrestrial origin.
Kimberlite pipes (e.g., Yakutia, Russia; South Africa)
Rare occurrences of moissanite have been reported in kimberlite pipes, which are igneous intrusions that bring mantle material to the surface.
Lamproite pipes (e.g., Argyle Mine, Australia)
Similar to kimberlites, lamproites can also host rare moissanite crystals, indicating deep-earth formation.
Industrial production facilities worldwide
Synthetic silicon carbide is produced globally, with major manufacturing centers in China, Japan, Europe, and North America.
Collecting tips
- Natural vs. Synthetic. It is highly improbable to find natural moissanite in the field due to its extreme rarity. Most 'silicon carbide' encountered will be synthetic. Natural moissanite is typically microscopic.
- Hardness Test. Silicon carbide is extremely hard (Mohs 9-9.5). It will scratch almost all other minerals, including corundum (Mohs 9), but will be scratched by diamond (Mohs 10). This can help differentiate it from other hard minerals.
- Luster and Iridescence. Synthetic SiC often exhibits a strong adamantine to sub-metallic luster and can show iridescent rainbow colors due to thin-film interference on its surface, especially in coarser abrasive grains.
- Crystal Form. If examining synthetic SiC, look for sharp, angular, often hexagonal or blocky crystal fragments, especially in abrasive powders or grains.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Colorless, pale green, greenish-black (natural); colorless, green, blue, black (synthetic)
- Luster:
- Adamantine to metallic
- Streak:
- Greenish-gray to black
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