The finding of natural GaN crystals in sediments from the East Pacific Ocean

The first finding of natural GaN crystals is reported in sediments from the East Pacific. They are identified by multiple micro-beam techniques such as TEM, EDS and EELS. Detailed examinations show that these GaN crystals are euhedral and authigenic, and belong to the hexagonal system (space group P63mc) with cell parameters: a = b = 0.3186 nm, c = 0.5178 nm. Structure data fit closely with those of the synthetic GaN crystals obtained from high-temperature and high-pressure experi- ments. Moreover, the nearly perfect euhedral form of the sample excludes the possible synthetic origin of the GaN crystals as artifacts with long transport. The sampling localities are located between the Clarion and Clipperton Fracture Zone in the East Pacific where ongoing hydrothermal activities, deformation, and volcanic eruptions are very intensive. It is sug- gested that the natural GaN crystals may form at relatively high-temperature and high-pressure condi- tions in geologic environments that have been af- fected by intense hydrothermal activities.