Where is Graphitic Quartz found?
SiO2 (Quartz) with C (Graphite)
Got a photo? Identify rocks instantly with the Rockby app
Open the appGraphitic Quartz 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 Graphitic Quartz
Adirondack Mountains, New York, USA
Known for metamorphic rocks, including graphite-rich gneisses and marbles where quartz-graphite associations are common.
Eastern Canada (e.g., Quebec, Ontario)
Regions with extensive Precambrian metamorphic terrains often host graphite deposits associated with quartz.
Brazil
Significant graphite deposits, often found in metamorphic rocks with quartz.
India
Various metamorphic belts contain graphite-bearing rocks, including quartz-graphite associations.
China
Major graphite producer, with occurrences in metamorphic rocks.
Collecting tips
- Look for Metamorphic Terrains. Focus your search in regions known for medium to high-grade metamorphic rocks, especially those derived from carbon-rich protoliths (e.g., shales, limestones).
- Identify Dark, Greasy-Feeling Rocks. Graphite imparts a dark color and a characteristic greasy feel to rocks. Look for dark gray to black rocks that may leave a mark on your fingers or paper.
- Observe Luster and Texture. The combination of vitreous quartz and submetallic to metallic graphite can create a distinctive appearance. Look for fine, shiny black flakes within a glassy matrix.
- Check for Streak. Graphite has a characteristic black to dark gray streak, which can help confirm its presence within the quartz.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Dark gray to black
- Luster:
- Dull to submetallic (due to graphite) with vitreous areas (quartz)
- Streak:
- Black to dark gray
Explore Graphitic Quartz
Identify rocks anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full database, and your personal collection.