| Graphite carbon C |
| massive graphite |
 |
Diagnostic properties:
- Color: black.
- Streak: black.
- Hardness: 1 to 2.
- Specific Gravity: 2.23.
- Luster: metallic; sometimes dull earthy.
- Cleavage: perfect basal.
- Transparency: opaque.
- Other properties: greasy feel; folia flexible but inelastic; excellent conductor of electricity.
- Occurrence: rare.
- Crystal system: hexagonal.
- Uses: for refractories, electrodes, dry lubricants, pencils and dyes.
- Name: from the Greek word meaning to write, in allusion to its use in pencils.
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