Etch patterns on (<(11)over bar 0>) and (001) faces of as-obtained GdFeO3 c
rystals are illustrated and described. Rectangular etch pits oriented with
their longer sides in [100] direction and shorter sides in [010] direction
are exhibited by [001] faces, whereas almost circular etch pits are exhibit
ed by (<(11)over bar 0>) faces of as-obtained crystals. Hexagonal etch pits
and triangular etch pits produced as a result of etching in boiling HNO3 o
n (001) and (<(11)over bar 0>) faces are respectively illustrated. Evidence
in support of twinning in some crystals is offered. The etch pattern on as
-grown crystals are attributed to some fault in their growth conditions. Ed
ge nucleated growth pyramids on a (<(11)over bar 0>) face and conical hillo
cks on (001) faces exhibiting pits at the centres of their initiation are i
llustrated. The conical hillocks are suggested to be as a result of prefere
ntial growth at the point of emergence of screw dislocations. (C) 2000 Else
vier Science B.V. All rights reserved.