10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark one)

    x     Quarterly report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2012

or

    ¨     Transition report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the transition period from          to         

Commission file number 001-33834

RUBICON TECHNOLOGY, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Delaware	36-4419301
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
900 East Green Street Bensenville, Illinois	60106
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (847) 295-7000

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer	¨	Accelerated filer	x
Non-accelerated filer	¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company	¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

As of November 5, 2012 the Registrant had 22,537,296 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, outstanding.

RUBICON TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

			Page
Part I		Financial Information		2
	Item 1.	Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)		2
		Consolidated Balance Sheets– September 30, 2012 (unaudited) and December 31, 2011		2
		Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) – Three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011		3
		Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (unaudited) – Three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011		4
		Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) – Nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011		5
		Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)		6
	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		14
	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		23
	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures		24
Part II		Other Information		25
	Item 1.	Legal Proceedings		25
	Item 1A.	Risk Factors		25
	Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		25
	Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities		25
	Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures		25
	Item 5.	Other Information		25
	Item 6.	Exhibits		25
Signatures				26
Exhibit Index				27

1

PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

Rubicon Technology, Inc.

Consolidated balance sheets

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(unaudited)
	(in thousands other than share data)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	7,601		$	4,290
Restricted cash		171			189
Short-term investments		36,570			50,528
Accounts receivable, net		8,120			30,655
Accounts receivable, related parties		4,325			1,989
Inventories		45,811			22,823
Other inventory supplies		15,734			17,613
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		2,581			4,491
Deferred tax assets		2,619			3,078
Total current assets		123,532			135,656
Property and equipment, net		121,358			120,931
Investments		—			2,000
Other assets		1,583			1,365
Total assets	$	246,473		$	259,952
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Accounts payable	$	7,781		$	12,831
Accrued payroll		1,371			1,578
Accrued and other current liabilities		1,195			1,570
Corporate income and franchise taxes		379			612
Advance payments		206			9
Total current liabilities		10,932			16,600
Deferred tax liability		9,547			15,121
Total liabilities		20,479			31,721
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)
Stockholders’ equity
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 undesignated shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding		—			—
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 45,000,000 shares authorized and 24,312,140 and 24,289,723 shares issued; 22,537,296 and 22,514,879 shares outstanding		24			24
Additional paid-in capital		333,613			332,119
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,774,844 shares		(12,148	)		(12,148	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		626			(50	)
Accumulated deficit		(96,121	)		(91,714	)
Total stockholders’ equity		225,994			228,231
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	246,473		$	259,952

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

2

Rubicon Technology, Inc.

Consolidated statements of operations

	Three months ended September 30,						Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011			2012			2011
	(unaudited) (in thousands, other than share data)
Revenue	$	19,942		$	33,637		$	47,152		$	114,635
Cost of goods sold		17,497			17,516			48,104			47,339
Gross profit (loss)		2,445			16,121			(952	)		67,296
Operating expenses:
General and administrative		2,530			3,251			6,880			9,228
Sales and marketing		417			519			1,346			1,284
Research and development		639			466			1,712			1,303
(Gain) loss on disposal of assets		—			—			(5	)		7
Income (loss) from operations		(1,141	)		11,885			(10,885	)		55,474
Other income:
Interest income		12			56			68			207
Realized gain (loss) on foreign currency translation		277			(166	)		308			(172	)
Realized gain on investments		8			—			8			—
Total other income (expense)		297			(110	)		384			35
Income (loss) before income taxes		(844	)		11,775			(10,501	)		55,509
Income tax benefit (expense)		1,116			(3,589	)		6,094			(18,311	)
Net income (loss)	$	272		$	8,186		$	(4,407	)	$	37,198
Net income (loss) per common share
Basic	$	0.01		$	0.36		$	(0.20	)	$	1.62
Diluted	$	0.01		$	0.35		$	(0.20	)	$	1.57
Weighted average common shares outstanding used in computing net income (loss) per common share
Basic		22,524,611			22,822,286			22,519,171			22,948,980
Diluted		23,050,618			23,410,525			22,519,171			23,760,859

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

3

Rubicon Technology, Inc.

Consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss)

	Three months ended September 30,						Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011			2012			2011
	(unaudited) (in thousands)
Net income (loss)	$	272		$	8,186		$	(4,407	)	$	37,198
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes		638			(62	)		681			(81	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation		(1	)		1			(5	)		—
Other comprehensive income (loss)		637			(61	)		676			(81	)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$	909		$	8,125		($	3,731	)	$	37,117

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

4

Rubicon Technology, Inc.

Consolidated statements of cash flows

	Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(unaudited) (in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	$	(4,407	)	$	37,198
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization		8,958			6,842
Net (gain) loss on disposal of assets		(5	)		7
Stock-based compensation		1,484			2,650
Deferred taxes		(5,574	)		14,576
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		—			(4,301	)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		20,199			(10,609	)
Inventories		(22,726	)		(5,826	)
Other inventory supplies		2,006			(5,803	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets		1,694			(2,188	)
Accounts payable		(5,150	)		(2,386	)
Accrued payroll		(215	)		(434	)
Corporate income and franchise taxes		(229	)		(154	)
Advanced payments		197			(838	)
Accrued and other current liabilities		(389	)		2,064
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities		(4,157	)		30,798
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment		(9,390	)		(40,656	)
Proceeds from disposal of assets		10			—
Purchases of investments		(202	)		(191	)
Proceeds from sale of investments		17,300			12,528
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		7,718			(28,319	)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from exercise of options		12			741
Restricted cash		18			19
Purchase of treasury stock		—			(5,482	)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		—			4,301
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		30			(421	)
Net effect of currency translation		(280	)		226
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		3,311			2,284
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		4,290			16,073
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	7,601		$	18,357
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid for income taxes	$	—		$	6,050

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

5

Rubicon Technology, Inc.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

September 30, 2012

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Interim financial data

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with Rubicon Technology, Inc.’s (the “Company”) annual report filed on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of adjustments of a normal and recurring nature) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations have been included. Consolidated operating results for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2012.

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Rubicon Worldwide LLC and Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Foreign currency translation and transactions

Rubicon Worldwide LLC’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates and capital accounts at historical exchange rates. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. Translation adjustments resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates for Rubicon Worldwide LLC are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.

The Company has determined that the functional currency of Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD is the U.S. dollar. Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using the remeasurement method. Non-monetary assets are translated at historical exchange rates and monetary assets are translated at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation adjustments for Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD are included in determining net income (loss) for the period. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are generated from the effects of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the Company, which is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are generally required to be recognized in the determination of net income (loss) for the period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Investments

The Company invests available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. Investments classified as available-for-sale securities are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Investments in trading securities are reported at fair value, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded in other income (expense), in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Investments in which the Company has the ability and intent, if necessary, to liquidate in order to support its current operations, are classified as short-term.

The Company reviews its available-for-sale securities investments at the end of each quarter for other-than-temporary declines in fair value based on the specific identification method. The Company considers various factors in determining whether an impairment is other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the impairment, changes in underlying credit ratings, forecasted recovery, its ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value and the probability that the scheduled cash payments will continue to be made. When the Company concludes that an other-than-temporary impairment has resulted, the difference between the fair value and carrying value is written off and recorded as a charge on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. As of September 30, 2012, no impairment was recorded.

6

Accounts receivable

The majority of the Company’s accounts receivable is due from manufacturers serving the LED and Silicon-on-Sapphire (“SoS”) industries. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. Accounts receivable are due based on contract terms and at stated amounts due from customers, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

Accounts outstanding longer than the contractual payment terms are considered past due. The Company determines its allowance by considering a number of factors, including the length of time past due, the customer’s current ability to pay and the condition of the general economy and industry as a whole. The Company writes off accounts receivable when they are deemed uncollectible, and payments subsequently received on such receivables are recorded as a reduction to bad debt expense.

The following table shows the activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	378		$	194
Charges to costs and expenses		14			1,873
Accounts charged off, less recoveries		(4	)		(1,689	)
Ending balance	$	388		$	378

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method, and includes materials, labor and overhead. The Company reduces the carrying value of its inventories for differences between the cost and the estimated net realizable value, taking into account usage, expected demand, technological obsolescence and other information.

Inventories are composed of the following:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Raw materials	$	20,584	$	7,835
Work in progress		19,862		9,776
Finished goods		5,365		5,212
	$	45,811	$	22,823

There is a high degree of volatility in the markets served by the Company with demand for its products constantly changing. Currently, larger diameter wafers are in greater demand than smaller diameter products. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the Company decided to recycle some boules from inventory that might have produced lower than normal six inch yield and in that case would be used for smaller diameter products. Historically, boules put through a second growth cycle typically result in very high grade crystal which typically results in a higher yield of large diameter wafers. The recycling of boules reduced inventory and increased cost of goods sold for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 by $927,000.

Property and equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Land and land improvements	$	4,133		$	2,540
Buildings		30,208			26,915
Machinery, equipment and tooling		103,412			98,276
Leasehold improvements		7,696			7,712
Furniture and fixtures		941			834
Information systems		1,070			954
Construction in progress		16,670			17,530
Total cost		164,130			154,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(42,772	)		(33,830	)
Property and equipment, net	$	121,358		$	120,931

7

Revenue recognition

Revenues recognized include product sales and billings for costs and fees for government contracts.

Product Sales

The Company recognizes revenue from product sales when earned. Revenue is recognized when, and if, evidence of an arrangement is obtained and the other criteria to support revenue recognition are met, including:

• Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. The Company requires evidence of a purchase order with the customer specifying the terms and specifications of the product to be delivered, typically in the form of a signed quotation or purchase order from the customer.

• Title has passed and the product has been delivered. Title passage and product delivery generally occur when the product is delivered to a common carrier.

• The price is fixed or determinable. All terms are fixed in the signed quotation or purchase order received from the customer. The purchase orders do not contain rights of cancellation, return, exchange or refund.

• Collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. The Company’s standard arrangement with customers includes payment terms. Customers are subject to a credit review process that evaluates each customer’s financial position and its ability to pay. Collectability is determined by considering the length of time the customer has been in business and history of collections. If it is determined that collection is not probable, no product is shipped and no revenue is recognized unless cash is received in advance.

Government Contracts

In July 2012, the Company signed a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory to produce large-area sapphire windows on a cost plus fixed fee basis. The Company will recognize research and development revenue in the period during which the related costs are incurred over the contractually defined period.

The Company does not provide maintenance or other services and it does not have sales that involve multiple elements or deliverables.

Net income per common share

Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of diluted common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted shares outstanding are calculated by adding to the weighted-average shares any outstanding stock options and warrants based on the treasury stock method.

Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 because the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive.

At September 30, 2012, the Company had the following anti-dilutive securities outstanding which were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

	September 30, 2012
Warrants		169,042
Stock options		356,965
		526,007

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise from transactions and other events from non-owner sources. Comprehensive income (loss) includes net earnings (loss) and other non-owner changes in equity that bypass the statement of operations and are reported in a separate component of equity. The following table shows the activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss):

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	(50	)	$	(10	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes		681			(42	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation		(5	)		2
Ending Balance	$	626		$	(50	)

8

3. SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company evaluates operations as one reportable segment, as it only reports profit and loss information on an aggregate basis to its chief operating decision maker.

Revenue is attributed by geographic region based on ship-to location of the Company’s customers. The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Korea	$	6,929	$	20,324	$	9,332	$	37,309
United States		4,256		4,240		8,842		9,251
France		2,245		—		8,482		356
Australia		4,702		—		8,430		14
Taiwan		417		4,208		5,657		49,846
China		921		575		3,501		3,533
Japan		152		2,612		492		11,115
Other		320		1,678		2,416		3,211
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

The following table summarizes revenue by product type:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Core	$	1,344	$	6,602	$	9,417	$	61,622
Polished		16,580		25,117		32,709		48,077
Optical		1,558		1,909		4,525		4,912
Research & Development		422		—		447		15
Other		38		9		54		9
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

The following table summarizes assets by geographic region:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
United States	$	209,868	$	223,430
Malaysia		36,575		36,492
Other		30		30
Total Assets	$	246,473	$	259,952

4. INVESTMENTS

The Company invests available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. The Company’s short-term investments balance of $36.6 million as of September 30, 2012, is comprised of U.S. Treasury securities of $3.5 million, corporate notes and bonds of $11.3 million, commercial

9

paper of $14.9 million, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposit of $3.8 million and common stock of $3.1 million. The Company’s investments are classified as available-for-sale securities and are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at September 30, 2012:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	3,516	$	—	$	1	$	3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		3,808		—		4		3,804
Common stock		2,000		1,105		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		11,317		—		6		11,311
Commercial Paper		14,839		—		4		14,835
Total short-term investments	$	35,480	$	1,105	$	15	$	36,570

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at December 31, 2011:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	4,500	$	—	$	—	$	4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		37,085		—		37		37,048
Commercial Paper		8,992		—		12		8,980
Total short-term investments	$	50,577	$	—	$	49	$	50,528
Long-term Investments:
Peregrine Semiconductor, Corp. Series D-1 Preferred shares	$	2,000	$	—	$	—	$	2,000

The Company values its investments at fair value, defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Valuation techniques used to measure fair value must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The standard below describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value which are the following:

• Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

• Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

• Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

The Company’s fixed income available-for-sale securities consist of high quality, investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. The Company values these securities based on pricing from pricing vendors, who may use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1 inputs) or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable either directly or indirectly (Level 2 inputs) in determining fair value. The valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments having Level 2 inputs were derived from non-binding market consensus prices that are corroborated by observable market data, quoted market prices for similar instruments, or pricing models, such as discounted cash flow techniques.

10

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2012:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	5,708	$	—	$	—	$	5,708
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		3,515		—		3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		—		3,804		—		3,804
Common stock		3,105		—		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		—		11,311		—		11,311
Commercial paper		—		14,835		—		14,835
Total	$	8,813	$	33,465	$	—	$	42,278

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	839	$	—	$	—	$	839
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		4,500		—		4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		—		37,048		—		37,048
Commercial paper		—		8,980		—		8,980
Total	$	839	$	50,528	$	—	$	51,367

In addition to the debt securities noted above, the Company had approximately $2.0 million and $3.5 million of time deposits included in cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

5. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

In November 2008, the Company purchased 1,345,444 shares of Peregrine Series D-1 Preferred shares for a total of $2.0 million, which represented less than 1% of Peregrine’s shares outstanding. The terms and stock price of the purchase were the same as for the other investors who participated. Peregrine is a customer of the Company. On August 8, 2012, Peregrine completed its initial public offering, which resulted in a conversion of the preferred shares to common stock at a ratio of 7.34:1, or 183,303 shares of common stock. There is a lock out period until February, 2013 during which the Company can not sell these shares. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 the Company recorded an unrealized gain on investments of $1.1 million. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, revenue from Peregrine was $8.7 million and $20.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, accounts receivable from Peregrine were $4.3 million and $2.0 million, respectively. The pricing terms and conditions of the sales to Peregrine are similar to those available to the Company’s other non-related customers.

6. SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS

For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the Company had two customers that accounted for approximately 44% and 35% of revenue, respectively, and for the three months ended September 30, 2011, the Company had one customer that accounted for approximately 60% of revenue. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company had two customers that accounted for approximately 44% and 20% of revenue, respectively, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company had three customers that accounted for approximately 32%, 22% and 13% of revenue, respectively.

Customers individually representing more than 10% of trade receivables accounted for approximately 86% and 89% of accounts receivable as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company grants credit to customers based on an evaluation of their financial condition. Losses from credit sales are provided for in the financial statements.

7. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common Stock

As of September 30, 2012, the Company had reserved 2,142,719 shares of common stock for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding common stock options. Also, 2,190,004 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for future grants of stock options (or other similar equity instruments) under the Company’s 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”) as of September 30, 2012. In addition, 267,826 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for future exercise of outstanding warrants as of September 30, 2012.

11

Warrants

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, 13,735 common stock warrants were exercised in full on a “net exercise basis”, which resulted in the Company issuing 2,188 shares of common stock to the warrant holders. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, there were 267,826 and 281,561 common stock warrants outstanding, respectively.

Treasury Stock

On August 4, 2011, the Company authorized a stock repurchase program to purchase up to $25.0 million of its common stock over a period of two years. The stock repurchase program authorizes the Company to repurchase its shares of common stock in the open market at times and prices considered appropriate by the Company depending upon prevailing market conditions and other corporate considerations. The treasury shares are accounted for using the cost method whereby the entire cost of the acquired stock is recorded as treasury stock. The Company did not repurchase any shares during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

8. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

The Company sponsored a stock option plan, the 2001 Plan, which allowed for the granting of incentive and nonqualified stock options for the purchase of common stock. The maximum number of shares that may be awarded or sold under the 2001 Plan was 1,449,667 shares. Each option entitles the holder to purchase one share of common stock at the specified option exercise price. The exercise price of each incentive stock option granted must not be less than the fair market value on the grant date. At the discretion of management and with the approval of the Board of Directors, the Company granted options under the 2001 Plan. Management and the Board of Directors determined vesting periods and expiration dates at the time of the grant. On August 2, 2011, the plan expired.

In August 2007, the Company adopted the 2007 Plan, which allows for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards and bonus shares. On June 22, 2011, the stockholders of the Company approved an amendment to the 2007 Plan to increase the maximum number of shares that may be awarded or sold under the 2007 Plan by 2,100,000, from 2,307,692 to 4,407,692 shares. The Board of Directors has appointed a committee to administer the plan. The plan committee determines the type of award to be granted, the fair market value, the number of shares covered by the award, and the time when the award vests and may be exercised.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to value stock options issued after January 1, 2006. The Company uses historical stock prices of companies that it considers as a peer group as the basis for its volatility assumptions. The assumed risk-free rates were based on U.S. Treasury rates in effect at the time of grant with a term consistent with the expected option lives. The expected term is based upon the vesting term of the Company’s options, a review of a peer group of companies, and expected exercise behavior. The forfeiture rate is based on past history of forfeited options. The expense is being allocated using the straight-line method. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded $455,000 and $1.4 million, respectively, of stock compensation expense. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded $857,000 and $2.5 million, respectively, of stock compensation expense. As of September 30, 2012, the Company has $3.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards granted under the Company’s stock-based plans that it expects to recognize over a weighted-average period of 2.29 years. The Company accounts for options issued prior to January 1, 2006 under the intrinsic value method.

The following table summarizes the activity of the stock incentive and equity plans as of September 30, 2012 and changes during the nine months then ended:

	Shares available for grant			Number of options outstanding			Weighted- average option exercise price		Number of restricted stock and board shares issued
At December 31, 2011		2,259,999			2,093,108		$	13.45		42,587
Granted		(94,595	)		77,250			9.74		17,345
Exercised		—			(2,885	)		4.00		—
Cancelled/forfeited		24,600			(24,754	)		16.44		—
At September 30, 2012		2,190,004			2,142,719		$	13.27		59,932

12

The Company’s aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the underlying stock options and the fair value of the Company’s common stock. Based on the fair market value of the common stock at September 30, 2012 and 2011, there is no intrinsic value for options outstanding. The weighted average fair value per share of options granted for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $9.74 and the fair value of each option grant was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using an expected term of 5.3 years, risk-free interest rates of 0.83%-1.04%, expected volatility of 52% and no dividend yield. The Company used an expected forfeiture rate of 16.59%.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded $41,000 and $122,000, respectively, of stock compensation expense related to restricted stock. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded $41,000 and $125,000, respectively, of stock compensation expense related to restricted stock.

A summary of the Company’s non-vested options during the nine month period ended September 30, 2012 is presented below:

	Options			Weighted- average exercise price
Non-vested at January 1, 2012		1,313,177		$	15.42
Granted		77,250			9.74
Vested		(402,163	)		14.37
Forfeited		(21,650	)		17.68
Non-vested at September 30, 2012		966,614		$	15.36

An analysis of restricted stock issued is as follows:

Non-vested restricted stock as of December 31, 2011	1,931
Granted	17,345
Vested	(10,603	)
Non-vested restricted stock as of September 30, 2012	8,673

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Purchase Commitments

The Company has entered into agreements to purchase equipment and components to construct and maintain furnaces. These agreements will result in the Company purchasing equipment or components for a total cost of approximately $3.3 million with deliveries occurring through February 2013.

Litigation

From time to time, the Company experiences routine litigation in the normal course of its business. The management of the Company does not believe any pending litigation will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.

10. INCOME TAXES

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and Malaysia. In accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes”, the Company assesses on a quarterly basis its ability to realize its deferred tax assets. The tax provision for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 is based on an estimated effective tax rate which requires the Company to make its best estimate of annual pretax income. The Company recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 a tax benefit of $1.1 million and $6.1 million, respectively. The tax benefit relates to 2012 and several previous tax years which includes $424,000 in income tax benefits related to recording unrecognized state tax credits from previous tax years. The Company has concluded that these amounts are immaterial to the consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. The Company recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 a tax expense of $3.6 million and $18.3 million, respectively, for an effective tax rate of 30.5% and 33.0%, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the difference between the Company’s effective tax rate and the U.S. federal 34% statutory rate was primarily related to profits recorded in the Company’s Malaysia operation for which the Company has a tax holiday, intercompany interest taxable in the U.S., additional tax credits and the reversal of an unrecognized tax benefit.

13

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q regarding our estimates, expectations, beliefs, intentions, projections or strategies for the future, results of operations, financial position, net sales, projected costs, prospects and plans and objectives of management for future operations may be “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. These forward looking statements can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “believe,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “target,” “estimate,” “expect,” and the like, and/or future-tense or conditional constructions such as “will,” “may,” “could,” “should,” etc. (or the negative thereof). Items contemplating or making assumptions about actual or potential future sales, market size and trends or operating results also constitute forward-looking statements.

Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Before investing in our common stock, investors should be aware that the occurrence of the risks, uncertainties and events described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown business, economic and other risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Readers are urged not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date of this Quarterly Report, other than as may be required by applicable law or regulation. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results may vary materially from those expected or projected.

You should read this Quarterly Report, the documents that we reference in this Quarterly Report and have filed with the SEC as exhibits and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 with the understanding that our actual future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances may be materially different from what we expect.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “Rubicon,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Rubicon Technology, Inc.

OVERVIEW

We are an advanced electronic materials provider that develops, manufactures and sells monocrystalline sapphire and other innovative crystalline products for Light-Emitting Diodes (“LEDs”), radio frequency integrated circuits (“RFICs”), blue laser diodes, optoelectronics and other optical applications. The emergence of sapphire in commercial volumes at competitive prices has enabled the development of new technologies such as high brightness (“HB”) white, blue and green LEDs and highly-integrated RFICs. We apply our proprietary crystal growth technology to produce high-quality sapphire products efficiently to supply our end-markets, and we work closely with our customers to meet their quality and delivery needs.

We are a vertically-integrated manufacturer of high-quality sapphire substrates and optical windows that are used in a variety of high-growth, high-volume, end-market applications. Our largest product line is two inch to six inch sapphire cores and wafers for use in LEDs and blue laser diodes for solid state lighting and electronic applications. For the LED market, we sell two inch to four inch material primarily in core form and six and eight inch material primarily in polished wafer form. Eight inch wafers are sold primarily for research and development efforts at this time. In addition, we sell six inch sapphire wafers that are used for Silicon-on-Sapphire (“SoS”) RFICs, as well as products for aerospace, sensor and other applications. We have also extended our technology, which gives us the ability to produce cores and wafers of up to twelve inches in diameter to support next-generation LED and SoS RFIC production. In addition, we have developed the ability to produce large diameter circular and rectangular sapphire windows for use in various optical window applications.

Our revenue consists of sales of sapphire materials sold in core, as-cut, as-ground and polished wafer forms in two, three, four, six and eight inch diameters as well as optical materials sold as blanks or polished windows. Products are made to varying specifications, such as crystal planar orientations and thicknesses. We recognize research and development revenue in the period during which the related costs are incurred.

14

Historically, a significant portion of our revenue has been derived from sales to relatively few customers. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, we had two customers that accounted for approximately 79% of our revenue and for the three months ended September 30, 2011, we had one customer that accounted for approximately 60% of our revenue. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we had two customers that accounted for approximately 64% of our revenue and for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, we had three customers that accounted for approximately 67% of our revenue. Other than as discussed above, none of our customers accounted for more than 10% of our revenue for such periods. Although we are continuing to diversify and expand our customer base, we expect our revenue to continue to be concentrated among a small number of customers. We expect that our significant customers may change from period to period.

We recognize revenue upon shipment to our customers and from our government contract as costs and fees are incurred. We derive a significant portion of our revenue from customers outside of the U.S. In most periods, the majority of our sales are to the Asian market and we expect that region to continue to be a major source of revenue for us. All of our revenue is denominated in U.S. dollars.

We manufacture and ship our products from our facilities in the Chicago metropolitan area and from our facility in Penang, Malaysia. We have approximately 237,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space in Batavia, Franklin Park and Bensenville, Illinois and a 65,000 square foot facility in Penang, Malaysia, which processes sapphire grown by us in our Illinois facilities into finished cores and wafers. Our Malaysia facility currently finishes the majority of our core processing and produces production volumes of polished wafers. In March 2012, we acquired additional land in Batavia, Illinois to expand our crystal growth capacity. We have not yet determined when we will begin construction on this facility.

Our cost of goods sold consists primarily of manufacturing materials, labor, manufacturing-related overhead such as utilities, depreciation and rent, provisions for excess and obsolete inventory reserves, freight and warranties. We manufacture our products at our Illinois and Malaysia manufacturing facilities based on customer orders. We purchase materials and supplies to support such current and expected future demand. We are subject to variations in the cost of raw materials and consumables from period to period because we do not have long-term fixed-price agreements with most of our suppliers.

Our operating expenses are comprised of sales and marketing, research and development (“R&D”), and general and administrative (“G&A”) expenses. G&A expenses consist primarily of salaries and associated costs for employees in finance, human resources, information technology and administrative activities, charges for accounting, legal, and insurance fees, and stock-based compensation. The majority of our stock-based compensation relates to administrative personnel and is accounted for as a G&A expense.

Other income (expense) consists of interest income and realized gains and losses on investments and currency translation.

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method whereby the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the book value and the tax basis of assets and liabilities are recognized as deferred tax assets and liabilities, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to be recognized. A full valuation allowance was provided and no tax benefit was recorded until we could conclude that it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets would be realized. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, we concluded that based on the current level of sustainable profitability that generates taxable income, it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realizable. With the release of the valuation allowance, we began recording federal and certain state and non-U.S. income taxes attributable to the fiscal year’s pre-tax income. The Illinois State Legislature has increased the corporate income tax rate which unfavorably impacts our effective tax rate. Our effective tax rate could fluctuate significantly on a quarterly basis and could be affected to the extent earnings are higher or lower than anticipated. Our effective tax rate could also fluctuate due to changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets or liabilities, or by changes in tax laws, regulations, or accounting principles, as well as certain discrete items. At December 31, 2011, we had federal and state net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”) of $22.0 million and $42.0 million, respectively. The Illinois State Legislature has suspended the use of NOLs for taxable years ending after December 31, 2010 and before December 31, 2014. We believe we are not restricted in our ability to use the full amount of the NOLs, nor is there a limit to the amount of NOLs that may be used in any given year. However, the results of an updated analysis of ownership changes may indicate an ownership change. If an ownership change is determined, the utilization of the NOLs may be limited.

We anticipate our capital expenditures will be between $11 million and $13 million for the full year 2012. These expenditures will be primarily for purchases of equipment for our Malaysia facility, our raw material processing and new product development. Our capital expenditures in the nine months ended September 30, 2012 were $9.4 million.

15

RESULTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012 AND 2011

The following table sets forth our consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated:

	Three months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(in millions)
Revenue	$	19.9		$	33.6
Cost of goods sold		17.5			17.5
Gross profit		2.4			16.1
Operating expenses:
General and administrative		2.5			3.2
Sales and marketing		0.4			0.5
Research and development		0.6			0.5
Total operating expenses		3.5			4.2
Income (loss) from operations		(1.1	)		11.9
Other income (expense)		0.3			(0.1	)
Income (loss) before income taxes		(0.8	)		11.8
Income tax benefit (expense)		1.1			(3.6	)
Net income	$	0.3		$	8.2

The following table sets forth our consolidated statements of operations as a percentage of revenue for the periods indicated:

	Three months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(percentage of total)
Revenue		100	%		100	%
Cost of goods sold		88			52
Gross profit		12			48
Operating expenses:
General and administrative		13			10
Sales and marketing		2			2
Research and development		3			1
Total operating expenses		18			13
Income (loss) from operations		(6	)		35
Other income		2			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		(4	)		35
Income tax benefit (expense)		6			(11	)
Net income		2	%		24	%

Revenue. Revenue was $19.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and $33.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $13.7 million. We experienced a decrease in revenue from our products sold to the LED market. Revenue from the sale of sapphire cores, which are sold into the LED market, for the three months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by $5.3 million, of which $2.8 million was attributed to lower pricing and $2.5 million was attributed to lower volume. Because pricing for sapphire cores was very low, we decided not to sell much of these products in the three months ended September 30, 2012. We also experienced lower revenue from sales of our polished wafers by $8.5 million, which was the result of $14.9 million lower sales of polished wafers to the LED market offset in part by a $6.4 million increase in polished wafers sold to the SoS market. Of the $8.5 million reduction in revenue from polished wafers, $10.6 million was attributable to lower prices offset in part by an increase in volume of $2.1 million. We experienced an increase in research and development revenue of $422,000 as in July 2012 we were awarded a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory to produce large area sapphire slabs. Revenue will be recorded as costs are incurred as well as a portion of the fixed fee over a duration of three years. We also experienced lower optical revenue of $351,000 due to the slight decrease in sales for sensor and instrumentation applications. While demand for polished wafers was strong for the three months ended September 30, 2012, prices have decreased. We expect pricing to slowly recover for sapphire cores as inventory levels at sapphire producers decline, but it is difficult to predict the timing in this volatile market. Our wafer sales are almost exclusively six inch wafers which have not yet been broadly adopted by the LED industry. Because the usage of six inch wafers is limited and competitors are eager to participate in this promising market, we expect pricing of six inch wafers to decline in the near term. We expect broader adoption of six inch wafers, and therefore, greater demand for this product in late 2013.

16

Gross profit. Gross profit was $2.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 compared to a gross profit of $16.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $13.7 million. The decrease in gross profit is primarily attributable to decreased pricing for our products as well as lower sales volumes which is attributable to the reduced demand from the LED market due to the buildup of excess inventory in the supply chain. In addition, given the relative strength of the six inch market, we wanted to make sure our boule inventory was capable of producing high yield six inch material. Consequently, we decided to recycle some boules from inventory that might have produced lower than normal six inch yield. Boules put through a second growth cycle typically results in a higher grade crystal. This added approximately $927,000 to cost of goods sold in the three months ended September 30, 2012.

General and administrative expenses. G&A expenses were $2.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $721,000. The decrease was primarily due to $609,000 from lower employee compensation costs, including lower bonus and stock compensation expense, and lower consulting and audit fees of $208,000 partially offset by an increase in bad debt expense of $120,000.

Sales and marketing expenses. Sales and marketing expenses were $417,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and $519,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $102,000. The decrease in sales and marketing expenses is attributable to a decrease in travel expenses of $111,000 and lower marketing services, samples and exhibitions expense of $15,000 offset partially by increased employee compensation costs, including salary and employee stock options expense of $20,000.

Research and development expenses. R&D expenses were $639,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and $466,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2011, an increase of $173,000. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in headcount and additional employee compensation costs of $75,000 and additional spending on various projects of $93,000.

Other income. Other income (expense) was $297,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and ($110,000) for the three months ended September 30, 2011, an increase in other income of $407,000. The increase was primarily due to an increase in the realized gain on foreign currency translation of $443,000 offset in part by slightly lower interest income.

Income tax benefits (expenses). Income tax benefits were $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and income tax expenses were $3.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $4.7 million. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the differences between our effective tax rate, and the U.S. federal statutory rate were primarily related to profits recorded in our Malaysia operation for which we have a tax holiday, additional tax credits, and intercompany interest taxable in the U.S. During the three months ended September 30, 2011, management concluded that based on the current level of sustainable profitability that generates taxable income, that it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realizable. With the release of the valuation allowance, we began recording federal and certain state and non-U.S. income taxes attributable to the fiscal year’s pre-tax income at the statutory rates adjusted for various tax benefits that lower the rate. The tax provision is based on an estimated annual effective rate which requires us to make our best estimate of annual pretax income. To the extent this pretax income varies from estimates made at the end of the most recent interim period, the actual tax provision recognized in 2012 could be different than the forecasted amount used to estimate the tax provision for the three months ended September 30, 2012. We expect our normalized projected effective tax rate when profitable will be between 30% and 35%.

RESULTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012 AND 2011

The following table sets forth our consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated:

	Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(in millions)
Revenue	$	47.2		$	114.6
Cost of goods sold		48.1			47.4
Gross profit (loss)		(0.9	)		67.2
Operating expenses:
General and administrative		6.9			9.2
Sales and marketing		1.4			1.3
Research and development		1.7			1.3
Total operating expenses		10.0			11.8
Income (loss) from operations		(10.9	)		55.4
Other income		0.4			0.1
Income (loss) before income taxes		(10.5	)		55.5
Income tax benefit (expense)		6.1			(18.3	)
Net income (loss)	$	(4.4	)	$	37.2

17

The following table sets forth our consolidated statements of operations as a percentage of revenue for the periods indicated:

	Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(percentage of total)
Revenue		100	%		100	%
Cost of goods sold		102			41
Gross profit (loss)		(2	)		59
Operating expenses:
General and administrative		15			8
Sales and marketing		3			1
Research and development		3			1
Total operating expenses		21			10
Income (loss) from operations		(23	)		48
Other income		1			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		(22	)		48
Income tax benefit (expense)		13			(16	)
Net income (loss)		(9	)%		32	%

Revenue. Revenue was $47.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and $114.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $67.4 million. We experienced a decrease in revenue from our products sold to the LED market. Revenue from the sale of sapphire cores to the LED market for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by $52.2 million, of which $42.6 million was attributed to lower pricing and $9.6 million was due to decreased volume as a result of decreased demand. We also experienced lower revenue from sales of our polished wafers by $15.4 million which was the result of $33.1 million lower sales of polished wafers to the LED market offset in part by a $17.7 million increase in polished wafers sold to the SoS market. Of the $15.4 million reduction in polished wafer revenue, $18.5 million was attributed to lower pricing which was offset in part by an increase in volume of $3.1 million. We experienced an increase in research and development revenue of $432,000 as we were awarded a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory in July 2012 to produce large area sapphire slabs. Revenue will be recorded as costs are incurred as well as a portion of the fixed fee over a duration of three years. Revenue from our optical market decreased by $387,000 due to the slight decrease in sales for sensor and instrumentation applications. Sales of polished wafers to the LED market were limited in the first half of 2012 due to excess inventory at our key customer. Shipments resumed in June, 2012 to our key LED customer and we expect them to continue for the remainder of the year. Pricing for our sapphire cores has remained low, and we anticipate weak volume and pricing to continue at least throughout the fourth quarter and to slowly recover as inventory levels at sapphire producers declines. However, we operate in an extremely volatile market, so the amount of price or change is difficult to predict. Our wafer sales are almost exclusively six inch wafers which have not yet been broadly adopted by the LED industry. Because the usage of six inch wafers is limited and competitors are eager to participate in this promising market, we expect pricing of six inch wafers to decline in the near term. We also expect broader adoption of six inch wafers, and therefore, greater demand for this product in late 2013.

Gross profit (loss). Gross loss was $952,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and gross profit was $67.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $68.2 million. The decrease in gross profit is primarily attributable to decreased pricing for our products as well as lower sales volumes which is attributable to the reduced demand from the LED market due to the buildup of excess inventory in the supply chain. In addition, given the relative strength of the six inch market, we wanted to make sure our boule inventory was capable of producing high yield six inch material. Consequently, we decided to recycle some boules from inventory that might have produced lower than normal six inch yield. Boules put through a second growth cycle typically results in a higher grade crystal. This added approximately $927,000 to cost of goods sold in the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

General and administrative expenses. G&A expenses were $6.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and $9.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $2.3 million. The decrease was primarily due to lower employee compensation costs of $1.7 million including lower bonus and stock compensation expense. Bad debt expense decreased $411,000 due to a lower receivable balance from lower revenue and significant collections from a large customer. We also experienced lower audit fees of $112,000 due to timing of billings and lower consulting expenses of $132,000, partially offset by an increase in legal expenses of $204,000.

Sales and marketing expenses. Sales and marketing expenses were $1.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and $1.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, an increase of $62,000. The increase in sales and marketing expenses is attributable to increased employee compensation costs, including salary and employee stock options expense of $63,000, and higher marketing services, samples and exhibitions expense of $90,000, partially offset by a decrease in travel expenses of $90,000.

18

Research and development expenses. R&D expenses were $1.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and $1.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, an increase of $409,000. The increase is primarily attributable to an increase in headcount and higher employee compensation costs of $226,000, an increase in spending on various projects of $135,000 and an increase in travel expenses of $46,000.

Other income. Other income was $384,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and $35,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, an increase in other income of $349,000. The increase was primarily due to an increase in the realized gain on foreign currency translation of $480,000, offset in part by slightly lower interest income of $139,000.

Income tax benefits (expense). Income tax benefits were $6.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and income tax expenses were $18.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, a decrease of $24.4 million. Our effective tax rate was 58.0% and 33.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the differences between our effective tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory rate were primarily related to profits recorded in our Malaysia operation for which we have a tax holiday, additional tax credits, intercompany interest taxable in the U.S. and the reversal of an unrecognized tax benefit. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, management concluded that based on the current level of sustainable profitability that generates taxable income, that it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realizable. With the release of the valuation allowance, we began recording federal and certain state and non-U.S. income taxes attributable to the fiscal year’s pre-tax income at the statutory rates adjusted for various tax benefits that lower the rate. While we generated a net operating loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we believe it is more likely than that not that our deferred tax assets will be realizable and therefore no valuation allowance is required. The tax provision is based on an estimated annual effective rate which requires us to make our best estimate of annual pretax income. To the extent this pretax income varies from estimates made at the end of the most recent interim period, the actual tax provision recognized in 2012 could be different than the forecasted amount used to estimate the tax provision for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

We have historically funded our operations using a combination of issuances of common stock and cash generated from our operations.

As of September 30, 2012, we had cash and short term investments totaling $44.3 million, including cash of $2.0 million held in deposits at major banks, $5.7 million invested in money market funds and $36.6 million invested in commercial paper, corporate notes and bonds, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock and U.S. treasury securities.

Cash flows from operating activities

The following table represents the major components of our cash flows from operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011:

	Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(in millions)
Net income (loss)	$	(4.4	)	$	37.2
Non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization		8.9			6.8
Stock based compensation and other, net		1.5			2.7
Deferred taxes		(5.6	)		14.6
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		—			(4.3	)
Total non-cash items:		4.8			19.8
Working capital:
Accounts receivable		20.2			(10.6	)
Inventories		(22.7	)		(5.8	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets		3.7			(8.0	)
Accounts payable		(5.2	)		(2.4	)
Other accruals		(0.6	)		0.6
Total working capital items:		(4.6	)		(26.2	)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(4.2	)	$	30.8

19

Cash used in operating activities was $4.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. During such period, we generated a net loss of $4.4 million, incurred non-cash expenses of $4.8 million, and net working capital change of ($4.6) million. The net working capital change was comprised of a decrease in accounts receivable of $20.2 million due to collections from several customers and an overall decrease in accounts receivables balance on lower revenues, an increase in inventory of $22.7 million primarily due to an increase in our stock of raw materials and sapphire boules, a decrease in accounts payable of $5.2 million due to timing of payments and a decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets of $3.7 million due to a decrease in the purchase of furnace construction and replacement parts and items used in the polishing of wafers.

Cash provided by operating activities was $30.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. During such period, we generated net income of $37.2 million, incurred non-cash expenses of $19.8 million, and net working capital change of $26.2 million. The net working capital change was comprised of an increase in accounts receivable of $10.6 million due to timing of collections, an increase in prepaid expenses and other assets of $8.0 million primarily due to an increase in purchases of furnace construction and replacement parts and other items used in the polishing of wafers, an increase in inventory of $5.8 million on slower core sales, and a decrease in accounts payable of $2.4 million due to timing of payments, partially offset by an increase in other accruals of $638,000.

Cash flows from investing activities

The following table represents the major components of our cash flows from investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011:

	Nine months ended September 30,
	2012			2011
	(in millions)
Purchases of property and equipment:
Machinery & equipment for crystal growth		(4.3	)		(23.3	)
Land and building improvements		(2.7	)		(3.6	)
Increase capacity in other areas		(2.4	)		(13.7	)
Total purchases of property and equipment:		(9.4	)		(40.6	)
Proceeds from sales of investments, net of purchases		17.1			12.3
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	$	7.7		$	(28.3	)

Net cash provided by investing activities was $7.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we used approximately $9.4 million on the purchase of land and equipment. This was offset by the net proceeds from the sale of investments of $17.1 million.

Net cash used in investing activities was $28.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, we used approximately $40.6 million on the purchase of land and equipment. This was partially offset by sales of investments of $12.3 million used to fund operations and capital spending.

We are continuing to equip our facilities in Malaysia and in March 2012, purchased additional land in Batavia, Illinois for our next crystal growth facility. We have not yet decided on the timing of the construction of this new facility. We plan to purchase equipment for our raw material preparation and for new product development. We estimate our total capital expenditures for 2012 to be between $11 million and $13 million.

Cash flows from financing activities

Net cash provided by financing activities was $30,000 and net cash used in financing activities was $421,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Net cash provided by financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 represents $12,000 in net proceeds from the exercise of stock options and $18,000 from a decrease in restricted cash. Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 represents $4.3 million in excess tax benefits related to stock based compensation, and $741,000 in net proceeds from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by $5.5 million used in the purchase of treasury stock.

20

Future liquidity requirements

We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents, investments and anticipated cash flows from operating activities will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for at least the next twelve months. Our cash needs include cash required to fund our operations and the capital needed to fund our planned expansions in the U.S. and Asia and investments in new product development. If the assumptions underlying our business plan regarding future revenues and expenses change, or if unexpected opportunities or needs arise, we may seek to raise additional cash by selling equity or convertible debt securities. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of equity or convertible debt securities, the percentage ownership of our stockholders could be significantly diluted, and these newly-issued securities may have rights, preferences or privileges senior to those of existing stockholders. If we obtain debt financing, a substantial portion of our operating cash flow may be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on such indebtedness, and the terms of the debt securities issued could impose significant restrictions on our operations. If we are unable to obtain financing on terms favorable to us, we may be unable to successfully execute our business plan.

Contractual obligations

The contractual obligations presented in the table below represent our estimates of future payments under fixed contractual obligations and commitments at September 30, 2012. Changes in our business needs, as well as actions by third parties and other factors, may cause these estimates to change. Because these estimates are complex and necessarily subjective, our actual payments in future periods are likely to vary from those presented in the table. The following table sets forth information relating to our contractual obligations at September 30, 2012:

	Payments due in
	Total		Less than 1 year		1-3 years		3-5 years		More than 5 years
	(in millions)
Purchase order obligations	$	3.3	$	3.3		—		—		—
Total contractual obligations	$	3.3	$	3.3	$	—	$	—	$	—

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

We consider to be critical those accounting policies that require our most subjective or complex judgments, which often result from a need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain, and that are among the most important of our accounting policies in the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations. We believe the following to be our critical accounting policies, including the more significant estimates and assumptions used in preparation of our financial statements.

Foreign currency translation and transaction

Rubicon Worldwide LLC’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates and capital accounts at historical exchange rates. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. Translation adjustments resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates for Rubicon Worldwide LLC are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.

We have determined that the functional currency of Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD is the U.S. dollar. Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using the remeasurement method. Non-monetary assets are translated at historical exchange rates and monetary assets are translated at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation adjustments for Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD are included in determining net income (loss) for the period. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. We record these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are generated from the effects of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in a currency other than our functional currency, which is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are generally required to be recognized in the determination of net income (loss) for the period. We record these gains and losses in other income (expense).

21

Revenue recognition

We recognize revenue from sales of products and billings for costs and fees from government contracts.

We recognize revenue from sales of products when:

• Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. We require evidence of a purchase order with the customer specifying the terms and specifications of the product to be delivered, typically in the form of a signed quotation or purchase order from the customer.

• Title has passed and the product has been delivered. Title passage and product delivery generally occurs when the product is delivered to a common carrier.

• The price is fixed or determinable. All terms are fixed in the signed quotation or purchase order received from the customer. The purchase orders do not contain rights of cancellation, return, exchanges or refunds.

• Collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. Our standard arrangement with customers includes payment terms. Customers are subject to a credit review process that evaluates each customer’s financial position and its ability to pay. We determine collectibility by considering the length of time the customer has been in business and our history of collections with that customer. If we determine that collection is not probable, no product is shipped and no revenue is recognized unless cash is received in advance.

In July 2012, we signed a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory to produce large-area sapphire windows on a cost plus fixed fee basis. We will recognize revenue in the period during which the related costs are incurred over the contractually defined period. Our current contract will be over a period of three years.

All of our revenue is denominated in U.S. dollars.

Inventory valuation

We value our inventory at the lower of cost or market. Market is determined based on net realizable value. Cost for raw materials, work in process and finished goods are based on actual costs on a first-in, first-out basis. We establish inventory reserves when conditions exist that suggest inventory may be in excess of anticipated demand or is obsolete based on customer required specifications. We evaluate the ability to realize the value of our inventory based on a combination of factors, including forecasted sales, estimated current and future market value and changes in customers’ product specifications. Recoveries of previously written-down inventory are recognized only when the related inventory is sold and revenue has been recognized. Our method of estimating excess and obsolete inventory has remained consistent for all periods presented. However, if our recognition of excess or obsolete inventory is, or if our estimates of our inventory’s potential utility become, less favorable than currently expected, additional inventory reserves may be required. We determine our normal operating capacity and record as expense costs attributable to lower utilization of equipment and staff. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we determined we were not operating at capacity and recorded costs associated with lower utilization of equipment and staff. With the current lower demand for certain products, we believe that it is likely that we will incur additional adjustments for lower utilization of equipment and staff in 2012.

There is a high degree of volatility in the markets we serve with demand for our products constantly changing. Currently, larger diameter wafers are in greater demand than smaller diameter products. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, we decided to recycle some boules from inventory that might have produced lower than normal six inch yield and in that case would be used for smaller diameter products. Historically, boules put through a second growth cycle typically result in very high grade crystal which typically results in a higher yield of large diameter wafers. The recycling of boules reduced inventory and increased cost of goods sold for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 by $927,000.

Investments

We invest available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. Investments classified as available-for-sale securities are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Investments in trading securities are reported at fair value, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded in other income (expense), net in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Investments in which we have the ability and intent, if necessary, to liquidate in order to support our current operations are classified as short-term.

We review our available-for-sale securities investments at the end of each quarter for other-than-temporary declines in fair value based on the specific identification method. We consider various factors in determining whether an impairment is other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the impairment, changes in underlying credit ratings, forecasted recovery, our ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value and the probability that the scheduled cash payments will continue to be made. When we conclude that an other-than-temporary impairment has resulted, the difference between the fair value and carrying value is written off and recorded as a charge on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. As of September 30, 2012, no impairment was recorded.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

We estimate the allowance for doubtful accounts based on an assessment of the collectability of specific customer accounts. The determination of risk for collection is assessed on a customer-by-customer basis considering our historical experience and future orders with the customer, changes in payment patterns, and recent information we have about the current status of our accounts receivable balances. If we determine that a specific customer is a risk for collection, we provide a specific allowance for credit losses

22

to reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount we reasonably believe will be collected. We believe that, based on the customers to whom we sell and the nature of our agreements with them, our estimates are reasonable. Our method of estimating collectability has remained consistent for all periods presented and with past collections experience.

Stock-based compensation

We expense stock options based upon the fair market value on the date of grant. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options. The determination of the fair value of stock-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model will be affected by assumptions regarding a number of complex and subjective variables. These variables include our expected stock volatility over the term of the awards, actual and projected employee stock option exercise behaviors, risk-free interest rates, forfeitures and expected dividends.

The expected term represents the weighted-average period that our stock options are expected to be outstanding and is based upon the vesting term of our options, a review of a peer group of companies, and expected exercise behavior. Until November 2007, we were operating as a private company, and, as a result, we were unable to use our actual price volatility data. Therefore, we estimate the volatility of our common stock based on volatility of similar entities over the expected term of our stock options. We base the risk-free interest rate that we use in the option pricing model on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with remaining terms similar to the expected term on the options. We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future and, therefore, use an expected dividend yield of zero in the option pricing model. We are required to estimate forfeitures at the time of grant and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. The current forfeiture rate of 16.59% was based on our past history of forfeitures.

We allocate stock based compensation costs using a straight-line method which amortizes the fair value of each option on a straight-line basis over the service period. Based on the variables affecting the valuation of our common stock and the method used for allocating compensation costs, we recognized $455,000 and $1.4 million in stock compensation expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively.

All option grants made during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 were granted at an exercise price per share equal to the closing market price of our common stock on the date of grant. Therefore, there is no intrinsic value because the exercise price per share of each option was equal to the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant.

Based on the fair market value of the common stock at September 30, 2012, there is no aggregate intrinsic value of all stock options outstanding at September 30, 2012.

Income tax valuation allowance

Evaluating the need for and amount of a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets often requires significant judgment and extensive analysis of all the positive and negative evidence available to determine whether all or some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. A valuation allowance must be established for deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not (a probability level of more than 50 percent) that they will not be realized. In general, “realization” refers to the incremental benefit achieved through the reduction in future taxes payable or an increase in future taxes refundable from the deferred tax assets, assuming that the underlying deductible differences and carryforwards are the last items to enter into the determination of future taxable income. In determining our valuation allowance, we consider the source of taxable income, including taxable income in prior carryback years, future reversals of existing temporary differences, the required use of tax planning strategies, and future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, management concluded that based on the current level of sustainable profitability that generates taxable income, that it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realizable. With the release of the valuation allowance, federal and certain state and non-U.S. income taxes attributable to the fiscal year’s pre-tax income were provided for in the period. The reversal of the valuation allowance favorably impacted our effective tax rate.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

As of September 30, 2012, there have been no material changes in the off-balance sheet arrangements disclosed in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, there were no material changes in the information regarding market risk contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.

23

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Management’s evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures

Based on evaluations at September 30, 2012, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer (together, our “certifying officers”), with the participation of the management team, have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, and that material information relating to the Company is accumulated and communicated to management, including our certifying officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

Changes in internal control over financial reporting

Our certifying officers have concluded that there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the three months ended September 30, 2012, that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

24

PART II

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time we may be named in claims arising in the ordinary course of business. Currently, there are no legal proceedings or claims pending against us or involving us that, in the opinion of our management, could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Our business is influenced by many factors that are difficult to predict, involve uncertainties that may materially affect actual results and are often beyond our control. We have identified a number of these risk factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, which factors should be taken into consideration when reviewing the information contained in this report. There have been no material changes with regard to the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

None.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

In August 2011, we announced a repurchase plan approved by our Board of Directors authorizing the purchase of up to $25.0 million of our outstanding common stock over a period of two years. The stock repurchase program authorizes us to purchase shares of our common stock in the open market at times and prices considered appropriate by us depending upon prevailing market conditions and other corporate considerations. There were no purchases made by us during the quarter ended September 30, 2012 pursuant to this repurchase plan.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

None.

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

The exhibits filed or incorporated by reference as a part of this report are listed in the Index to Exhibits which appears following the signature page to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and is incorporated by reference.

25

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on November 8, 2012.

Rubicon Technology, Inc.
By	/s/ Raja M. Parvez
	Raja M. Parvez
	Chief Executive Officer and President
	(Principal Executive Officer)
By	/s/ William F. Weissman
	William F. Weissman
	Chief Financial Officer
	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

26

EXHIBIT INDEX

The Exhibits listed below are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Exhibit No.	Description	Incorporation by Reference
3.1	Eighth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rubicon Technology, Inc.	Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Amendment No. 2, to the registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-145880) filed on November 1, 2007
3.2	Amendment No. 1 to Eight Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation	Filed as Appendix A to the registrant’s Definitive Proxy statement on Schedule 14A, filed on April 29, 2011
3.3	Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rubicon Technology, Inc.	Filed as Exhibit 3.3 to Amendment No. 2, to the registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-145880) filed on November 1, 2007
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1	Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.SC. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101	The following materials from our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2012 are formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) consolidated balance sheets, (ii) consolidated statements of operation, (iii) consolidated statements of comprehensive income (iv) consolidated statements of cash flows and (v) notes to the consolidated financial statements

27

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

Certifications

Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, Raja M. Parvez, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Rubicon Technology, Inc. (the “registrant”);

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of the annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 8, 2012	By:	/s/ Raja M. Parvez
		Raja M. Parvez
		President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, William F. Weissman, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Rubicon Technology, Inc. (the “registrant”);

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of the annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 8, 2012	By:	/s/ William F. Weissman
		William F. Weissman
		Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

Certification Pursuant To Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002,

18 U.S.C. Section 1350

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Rubicon Technology, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2012 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Raja M. Parvez, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and I, William F. Weissman, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to my knowledge:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date: November 8, 2012	By:	/s/ Raja M. Parvez
		Raja M. Parvez
		President and Chief Executive Officer
Date: November 8, 2012	By:	/s/ William F. Weissman
		William F. Weissman
		Chief Financial Officer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the registrant and will be retained by the registrant and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

XML

Stock Incentive Plans (Details 1) (Nonvested options [Member], USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Nonvested options [Member]
Non-vested options
Non-vested restricted stock, Beginning balance	1,313,177
Options, Non-vested, Granted	77,250
Options, Non-vested, Vested	(402,163)
Options, Non-vested, Forfeited	(21,650)
Non-vested restricted stock, Ending balance	966,614
Weighted-average exercise price
Weighted average exercise price, Beginning balance	$ 15.42
Weighted average exercise price, Granted	$ 9.74
Weighted average exercise price, Vested	$ 14.37
Weighted average exercise price, Forfeited	$ 17.68
Weighted average exercise price, Ending balance	$ 15.36

XML

Investments (Details 1) (Recurring [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	$ 42,278	$ 51,367
Money market funds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash Equivalents	5,708	839
U.S. Treasury securities and agency [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,515	4,500
FDIC Guaranteed Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,804
Common Stock [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,105
Corporate notes/bonds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	11,311	37,048
Commercial paper [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	14,835	8,980
Level 1 [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	8,813	839
Level 1 [Member] | Money market funds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash Equivalents	5,708	839
Level 1 [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,105
Level 2 [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	33,465	50,528
Level 2 [Member] | U.S. Treasury securities and agency [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,515	4,500
Level 2 [Member] | FDIC Guaranteed Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	3,804
Level 2 [Member] | Corporate notes/bonds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	11,311	37,048
Level 2 [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current	14,835	8,980
Level 3 [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current
Level 3 [Member] | Money market funds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash Equivalents
Level 3 [Member] | U.S. Treasury securities and agency [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current
Level 3 [Member] | FDIC Guaranteed Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current
Level 3 [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current
Level 3 [Member] | Corporate notes/bonds [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current
Level 3 [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]
Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Available-for-sales securities-current

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 3)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Net income (loss) per common share
Antidilutive securities excluded from calculation of diluted net loss per share	526,007
Warrants [Member]
Net income (loss) per common share
Antidilutive securities excluded from calculation of diluted net loss per share	169,042
Stock options [Member]
Net income (loss) per common share
Antidilutive securities excluded from calculation of diluted net loss per share	356,965

XML

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract]
Cost of purchasing equipments or components	$ 3.3

XML

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Aug. 04, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stockholders' Equity (Textual) [Abstract]
Common stock reserved for future grants of stock options		2,142,719	2,142,719
Common stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding common stock options		2,190,004	2,190,004
Common stock reserved for future exercise of outstanding warrants		267,826	267,826
Common stock warrants exercised			13,735
Common stock warrants outstanding		267,826	267,826	281,561
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount	$ 25.0
Stock repurchase program, period			2 years
Repurchase of company shares		0	0
Issuance of shares of common stock to warrant holder			2,188

XML

Segment Information

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Segment Information [Abstract]

SEGMENT INFORMATION

3. SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company evaluates operations as one reportable segment, as it only reports profit and loss information on an aggregate basis to its chief operating decision maker.

Revenue is attributed by geographic region based on ship-to location of the Company’s customers. The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Korea	$	6,929	$	20,324	$	9,332	$	37,309
United States		4,256		4,240		8,842		9,251
France		2,245		—		8,482		356
Australia		4,702		—		8,430		14
Taiwan		417		4,208		5,657		49,846
China		921		575		3,501		3,533
Japan		152		2,612		492		11,115
Other		320		1,678		2,416		3,211
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

The following table summarizes revenue by product type:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Core	$	1,344	$	6,602	$	9,417	$	61,622
Polished		16,580		25,117		32,709		48,077
Optical		1,558		1,909		4,525		4,912
Research & Development		422		—		447		15
Other		38		9		54		9
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

The following table summarizes assets by geographic region:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
United States	$	209,868	$	223,430
Malaysia		36,575		36,492
Other		30		30
Total Assets	$	246,473	$	259,952

XML

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract]
Tax Benefit	$ (1,116,000)	$ 3,589,000	$ (6,094,000)	$ 18,311,000
Effective income tax rate		30.50%		33.00%
U.S federal Statutory rate			34.00%
Income tax benefits related to recording unrecognized state tax			$ 424,000

XML

Segment Information (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	$ 19,942	$ 33,637	$ 47,152	$ 114,635
Core [Member]
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	1,344	6,602	9,417	61,622
Polished [Member]
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	16,580	25,117	32,709	48,077
Optical [Member]
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	1,558	1,909	4,525	4,912
Research & Development [Member]
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	422		447	15
Other [Member]
Summary of revenue by product type
Total Revenue	$ 38	$ 9	$ 54	$ 9

XML

Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	$ 19,942	$ 33,637	$ 47,152	$ 114,635
Korea [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	6,929	20,324	9,332	37,309
United States [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	4,256	4,240	8,842	9,251
France [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	2,245		8,482	356
Australia [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	4,702		8,430	14
Taiwan [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	417	4,208	5,657	49,846
China [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	921	575	3,501	3,533
Japan [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	152	2,612	492	11,115
Other [Member]
Summary of revenue by geographic region
Total Revenue	$ 320	$ 1,678	$ 2,416	$ 3,211

XML

Segment Information (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Summary of assets by geographic region
Total Assets	$ 246,473	$ 259,952
United States [Member]
Summary of assets by geographic region
Total Assets	209,868	223,430
Malaysia [Member]
Summary of assets by geographic region
Total Assets	36,575	36,492
Other [Member]
Summary of assets by geographic region
Total Assets	$ 30	$ 30

XML

Segment Information (Details Textual)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012 Segment
Segment Information (Textual) [Abstract]
Number of reportable segment	1

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Rubicon Worldwide LLC and Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Foreign currency translation and transactions

Rubicon Worldwide LLC’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates and capital accounts at historical exchange rates. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. Translation adjustments resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates for Rubicon Worldwide LLC are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.

The Company has determined that the functional currency of Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD is the U.S. dollar. Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using the remeasurement method. Non-monetary assets are translated at historical exchange rates and monetary assets are translated at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation adjustments for Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD are included in determining net income (loss) for the period. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are generated from the effects of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the Company, which is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are generally required to be recognized in the determination of net income (loss) for the period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Investments

The Company invests available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. Investments classified as available-for-sale securities are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Investments in trading securities are reported at fair value, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded in other income (expense), in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Investments in which the Company has the ability and intent, if necessary, to liquidate in order to support its current operations, are classified as short-term.

The Company reviews its available-for-sale securities investments at the end of each quarter for other-than-temporary declines in fair value based on the specific identification method. The Company considers various factors in determining whether an impairment is other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the impairment, changes in underlying credit ratings, forecasted recovery, its ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value and the probability that the scheduled cash payments will continue to be made. When the Company concludes that an other-than-temporary impairment has resulted, the difference between the fair value and carrying value is written off and recorded as a charge on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. As of September 30, 2012, no impairment was recorded.

Accounts receivable

The majority of the Company’s accounts receivable is due from manufacturers serving the LED and Silicon-on-Sapphire (“SoS”) industries. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. Accounts receivable are due based on contract terms and at stated amounts due from customers, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

Accounts outstanding longer than the contractual payment terms are considered past due. The Company determines its allowance by considering a number of factors, including the length of time past due, the customer’s current ability to pay and the condition of the general economy and industry as a whole. The Company writes off accounts receivable when they are deemed uncollectible, and payments subsequently received on such receivables are recorded as a reduction to bad debt expense.

The following table shows the activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	378		$	194
Charges to costs and expenses		14			1,873
Accounts charged off, less recoveries		(4	)		(1,689	)
Ending balance	$	388		$	378

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method, and includes materials, labor and overhead. The Company reduces the carrying value of its inventories for differences between the cost and the estimated net realizable value, taking into account usage, expected demand, technological obsolescence and other information.

Inventories are composed of the following:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Raw materials	$	20,584	$	7,835
Work in progress		19,862		9,776
Finished goods		5,365		5,212
	$	45,811	$	22,823

There is a high degree of volatility in the markets served by the Company with demand for its products constantly changing. Currently, larger diameter wafers are in greater demand than smaller diameter products. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the Company decided to recycle some boules from inventory that might have produced lower than normal six inch yield and in that case would be used for smaller diameter products. Historically, boules put through a second growth cycle typically result in very high grade crystal which typically results in a higher yield of large diameter wafers. The recycling of boules reduced inventory and increased cost of goods sold for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 by $927,000.

Property and equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Land and land improvements	$	4,133		$	2,540
Buildings		30,208			26,915
Machinery, equipment and tooling		103,412			98,276
Leasehold improvements		7,696			7,712
Furniture and fixtures		941			834
Information systems		1,070			954
Construction in progress		16,670			17,530
Total cost		164,130			154,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(42,772	)		(33,830	)
Property and equipment, net	$	121,358		$	120,931

Revenue recognition

Revenues recognized include product sales and billings for costs and fees for government contracts.

Product Sales

The Company recognizes revenue from product sales when earned. Revenue is recognized when, and if, evidence of an arrangement is obtained and the other criteria to support revenue recognition are met, including:

• Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. The Company requires evidence of a purchase order with the customer specifying the terms and specifications of the product to be delivered, typically in the form of a signed quotation or purchase order from the customer.

• Title has passed and the product has been delivered. Title passage and product delivery generally occur when the product is delivered to a common carrier.

• The price is fixed or determinable. All terms are fixed in the signed quotation or purchase order received from the customer. The purchase orders do not contain rights of cancellation, return, exchange or refund.

• Collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. The Company’s standard arrangement with customers includes payment terms. Customers are subject to a credit review process that evaluates each customer’s financial position and its ability to pay. Collectability is determined by considering the length of time the customer has been in business and history of collections. If it is determined that collection is not probable, no product is shipped and no revenue is recognized unless cash is received in advance.

Government Contracts

In July 2012, the Company signed a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory to produce large-area sapphire windows on a cost plus fixed fee basis. The Company will recognize research and development revenue in the period during which the related costs are incurred over the contractually defined period.

The Company does not provide maintenance or other services and it does not have sales that involve multiple elements or deliverables.

Net income per common share

Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of diluted common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted shares outstanding are calculated by adding to the weighted-average shares any outstanding stock options and warrants based on the treasury stock method.

Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 because the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive.

At September 30, 2012, the Company had the following anti-dilutive securities outstanding which were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

	September 30, 2012
Warrants		169,042
Stock options		356,965
		526,007

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise from transactions and other events from non-owner sources. Comprehensive income (loss) includes net earnings (loss) and other non-owner changes in equity that bypass the statement of operations and are reported in a separate component of equity. The following table shows the activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss):

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	(50	)	$	(10	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes		681			(42	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation		(5	)		2
Ending Balance	$	626		$	(50	)

XML

Investments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	$ 35,480	$ 50,577
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,105
Gross Unrealized Losses	15	49
Fair Value	36,570	50,528
Long-term Investments [Member] | Peregrine Semiconductor, Corp. Series D-1 Preferred shares [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost		2,000
Gross Unrealized Gains
Fair Value		2,000
U.S. Treasury securities and agency [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	3,516	4,500
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses	1
Fair Value	3,515	4,500
FDIC Guaranteed Certificates of Deposit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	3,808
Gross Unrealized Losses	4
Fair Value	3,804
Common Stock [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	2,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,105
Fair Value	3,105
Corporate notes/bonds [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	11,317	37,085
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses	6	37
Fair Value	11,311	37,048
Commercial Paper [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities
Amortized Cost	14,839	8,992
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses	4	12
Fair Value	$ 14,835	$ 8,980

XML

Stock Incentive Plans (Details 2) (Restricted stock [Member])	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Restricted stock [Member]
Summary of restricted stock activity
Non-vested restricted stock, Beginning balance	1,931
Non-vested restricted stock, Granted	17,345
Options, Non-vested, Vested	(10,603)
Non-vested restricted stock, Ending balance	8,673

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 7,601	$ 4,290
Restricted cash	171	189
Short-term investments	36,570	50,528
Accounts receivable, net	8,120	30,655
Accounts receivable, related parties	4,325	1,989
Inventories	45,811	22,823
Other inventory supplies	15,734	17,613
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	2,581	4,491
Deferred tax assets	2,619	3,078
Total current assets	123,532	135,656
Property and equipment, net	121,358	120,931
Investment		2,000
Other assets	1,583	1,365
Total Assets	246,473	259,952
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Accounts payable	7,781	12,831
Accrued payroll	1,371	1,578
Accrued and other current liabilities	1,195	1,570
Corporate income and franchise taxes	379	612
Advance payments	206	9
Total current liabilities	10,932	16,600
Deferred tax liability	9,547	15,121
Total liabilities	20,479	31,721
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 undesignated shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 45,000,000 shares authorized and 24,312,140 and 24,289,723 shares issued; 22,537,296 and 22,514,879 shares outstanding	24	24
Additional paid-in capital	333,613	332,119
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,774,844 shares	(12,148)	(12,148)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	626	(50)
Accumulated deficit	(96,121)	(91,714)
Total stockholders' equity	225,994	228,231
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 246,473	$ 259,952

XML

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	$ (4,407)	$ 37,198
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization	8,958	6,842
Net (gain) loss on disposal of assets	(5)	7
Stock-based compensation	1,484	2,650
Deferred taxes	(5,574)	14,576
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		(4,301)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	20,199	(10,609)
Inventories	(22,726)	(5,826)
Other inventory supplies	2,006	(5,803)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	1,694	(2,188)
Accounts payable	(5,150)	(2,386)
Accrued payroll	(215)	(434)
Corporate income and franchise taxes	(229)	(154)
Advanced payments	197	(838)
Accrued and other current liabilities	(389)	2,064
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	(4,157)	30,798
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	(9,390)	(40,656)
Proceeds from disposal of assets	10
Purchases of investments	(202)	(191)
Proceeds from sale of investments	17,300	12,528
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	7,718	(28,319)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from exercise of options	12	741
Restricted cash	18	19
Purchase of treasury stock		(5,482)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		4,301
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	30	(421)
Net effect of currency translation	(280)	226
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	3,311	2,284
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	4,290	16,073
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	7,601	18,357
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid for income taxes		$ 6,050

XML

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2012 Peregrine [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Peregrine [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Peregrine [Member] Rate	Dec. 31, 2011 Peregrine [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Series D1 Preferred Shares Member	Nov. 30, 2008 Series D1 Preferred Shares Member Peregrine [Member]	Aug. 08, 2012 Common Stock [Member] Peregrine [Member]
Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract]
Purchase of preferred shares									1,345,444
Value of preferred shares			$ 2,000,000						$ 2,000,000
Outstanding shares, description								less than 1%
Outstanding shares, percentage						1.00%
Description of conversion of preferred shares to common stock				conversion of the preferred shares to common stock at a ratio of 7.34:1, or 183,303 shares of common stock
Lock out period until which Company can not sell shares						2013-02
Unrealized (gain) loss on investments	1,100,000	1,100,000
Conversion of Preferred stock to common stock ratio				7.34
Conversion of Preferred stock to common stock shares										183,303
Revenue from related party					8,700,000	20,700,000
Accounts receivable from related party					$ 4,300,000	$ 4,300,000	$ 2,000,000

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Activity of allowance for doubtful accounts
Beginning balance	$ 378	$ 194
Charges to costs and expenses	14	1,873
Accounts charged off, less recoveries	(4)	(1,689)
Ending balance	$ 388	$ 378

XML

Significant Customers (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012 customer	Sep. 30, 2011 customer	Sep. 30, 2012 customer	Sep. 30, 2011 customer	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Customers (Textual) [Abstract]
Number of significant customer	2	1	2	3
Trade receivables	10.00%		10.00%
Accounts receivable	86.00%		86.00%		89.00%
Customer One [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenue	44.00%	60.00%	44.00%	32.00%
Customer Two [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenue	35.00%		20.00%	22.00%
Customer Three [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenue				13.00%

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Property and equipment
Total cost	$ 164,130	$ 154,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(42,772)	(33,830)
Property and equipment, net	121,358	120,931
Land and land improvements [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	4,133	2,540
Buildings [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	30,208	26,915
Machinery, equipment and tooling [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	103,412	98,276
Leasehold improvements [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	7,696	7,712
Furniture and fixtures [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	941	834
Information systems [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	1,070	954
Construction in progress [Member]
Property and equipment
Total cost	$ 16,670	$ 17,530

XML

Basis of Presentation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Basis of Presentation [Abstract]

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Interim financial data

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with Rubicon Technology, Inc.’s (the “Company”) annual report filed on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of adjustments of a normal and recurring nature) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations have been included. Consolidated operating results for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2012.

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	45,000,000	45,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	24,312,140	24,289,723
Common stock, shares outstanding	22,537,296	22,514,879
Treasury stock, shares	1,774,844	1,774,844

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Principles of consolidation

Principles of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Rubicon Worldwide LLC and Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Foreign currency translation and transactions

Foreign currency translation and transactions

Rubicon Worldwide LLC’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates and capital accounts at historical exchange rates. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. Translation adjustments resulting from fluctuations in exchange rates for Rubicon Worldwide LLC are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.

The Company has determined that the functional currency of Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD is the U.S. dollar. Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD’s assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using the remeasurement method. Non-monetary assets are translated at historical exchange rates and monetary assets are translated at exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation adjustments for Rubicon Sapphire Technology (Malaysia) SDN BHD are included in determining net income (loss) for the period. The results of operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the respective period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are generated from the effects of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the Company, which is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are generally required to be recognized in the determination of net income (loss) for the period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Investments

Investments

The Company invests available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. Investments classified as available-for-sale securities are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Investments in trading securities are reported at fair value, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded in other income (expense), in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Investments in which the Company has the ability and intent, if necessary, to liquidate in order to support its current operations, are classified as short-term.

The Company reviews its available-for-sale securities investments at the end of each quarter for other-than-temporary declines in fair value based on the specific identification method. The Company considers various factors in determining whether an impairment is other-than-temporary, including the severity and duration of the impairment, changes in underlying credit ratings, forecasted recovery, its ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value and the probability that the scheduled cash payments will continue to be made. When the Company concludes that an other-than-temporary impairment has resulted, the difference between the fair value and carrying value is written off and recorded as a charge on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. As of September 30, 2012, no impairment was recorded.

Accounts receivable

Accounts receivable

The majority of the Company’s accounts receivable is due from manufacturers serving the LED and Silicon-on-Sapphire (“SoS”) industries. Credit is extended based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. Accounts receivable are due based on contract terms and at stated amounts due from customers, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

Accounts outstanding longer than the contractual payment terms are considered past due. The Company determines its allowance by considering a number of factors, including the length of time past due, the customer’s current ability to pay and the condition of the general economy and industry as a whole. The Company writes off accounts receivable when they are deemed uncollectible, and payments subsequently received on such receivables are recorded as a reduction to bad debt expense.

The following table shows the activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	378		$	194
Charges to costs and expenses		14			1,873
Accounts charged off, less recoveries		(4	)		(1,689	)
Ending balance	$	388		$	378

Inventories

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method, and includes materials, labor and overhead. The Company reduces the carrying value of its inventories for differences between the cost and the estimated net realizable value, taking into account usage, expected demand, technological obsolescence and other information.

Inventories are composed of the following:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Raw materials	$	20,584	$	7,835
Work in progress		19,862		9,776
Finished goods		5,365		5,212
	$	45,811	$	22,823

Property and equipment

Property and equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Land and land improvements	$	4,133		$	2,540
Buildings		30,208			26,915
Machinery, equipment and tooling		103,412			98,276
Leasehold improvements		7,696			7,712
Furniture and fixtures		941			834
Information systems		1,070			954
Construction in progress		16,670			17,530
Total cost		164,130			154,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(42,772	)		(33,830	)
Property and equipment, net	$	121,358		$	120,931

Revenue recognition

Revenue recognition

Revenues recognized include product sales and billings for costs and fees for government contracts.

Product Sales

The Company recognizes revenue from product sales when earned. Revenue is recognized when, and if, evidence of an arrangement is obtained and the other criteria to support revenue recognition are met, including:

• Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists. The Company requires evidence of a purchase order with the customer specifying the terms and specifications of the product to be delivered, typically in the form of a signed quotation or purchase order from the customer.

• Title has passed and the product has been delivered. Title passage and product delivery generally occur when the product is delivered to a common carrier.

• The price is fixed or determinable. All terms are fixed in the signed quotation or purchase order received from the customer. The purchase orders do not contain rights of cancellation, return, exchange or refund.

• Collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. The Company’s standard arrangement with customers includes payment terms. Customers are subject to a credit review process that evaluates each customer’s financial position and its ability to pay. Collectability is determined by considering the length of time the customer has been in business and history of collections. If it is determined that collection is not probable, no product is shipped and no revenue is recognized unless cash is received in advance.

Government Contracts

In July 2012, the Company signed a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory to produce large-area sapphire windows on a cost plus fixed fee basis. The Company will recognize research and development revenue in the period during which the related costs are incurred over the contractually defined period.

The Company does not provide maintenance or other services and it does not have sales that involve multiple elements or deliverables.

Net income per common share

Net income per common share

Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of diluted common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted shares outstanding are calculated by adding to the weighted-average shares any outstanding stock options and warrants based on the treasury stock method.

Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 because the effects of potentially dilutive securities are anti-dilutive.

At September 30, 2012, the Company had the following anti-dilutive securities outstanding which were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

	September 30, 2012
Warrants		169,042
Stock options		356,965
		526,007

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)

Accumulated comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise from transactions and other events from non-owner sources. Comprehensive income (loss) includes net earnings (loss) and other non-owner changes in equity that bypass the statement of operations and are reported in a separate component of equity. The following table shows the activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss):

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	(50	)	$	(10	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes		681			(42	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation		(5	)		2
Ending Balance	$	626		$	(50	)

XML

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Nov. 05, 2012
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Rubicon Technology, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0001410172
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2012
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		22,537,296

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Activity of allowance for doubtful accounts

The following table shows the activity of the allowance for doubtful accounts:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	378		$	194
Charges to costs and expenses		14			1,873
Accounts charged off, less recoveries		(4	)		(1,689	)
Ending balance	$	388		$	378

Inventories

Inventories are composed of the following:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Raw materials	$	20,584	$	7,835
Work in progress		19,862		9,776
Finished goods		5,365		5,212
	$	45,811	$	22,823

Property and equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Land and land improvements	$	4,133		$	2,540
Buildings		30,208			26,915
Machinery, equipment and tooling		103,412			98,276
Leasehold improvements		7,696			7,712
Furniture and fixtures		941			834
Information systems		1,070			954
Construction in progress		16,670			17,530
Total cost		164,130			154,761
Accumulated depreciation and amortization		(42,772	)		(33,830	)
Property and equipment, net	$	121,358		$	120,931

Anti-dilutive securities outstanding excluded from calculation of diluted net loss per share

At September 30, 2012, the Company had the following anti-dilutive securities outstanding which were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:

	September 30, 2012
Warrants		169,042
Stock options		356,965
		526,007

Activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss)

The following table shows the activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss):

	September 30, 2012			December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	(50	)	$	(10	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes		681			(42	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation		(5	)		2
Ending Balance	$	626		$	(50	)

XML

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 19,942	$ 33,637	$ 47,152	$ 114,635
Cost of goods sold	17,497	17,516	48,104	47,339
Gross profit (loss)	2,445	16,121	(952)	67,296
Operating expenses:
General and administrative	2,530	3,251	6,880	9,228
Sales and marketing	417	519	1,346	1,284
Research and development	639	466	1,712	1,303
Net (gain) loss on disposal of assets			(5)	7
Income (loss) from operations	(1,141)	11,885	(10,885)	55,474
Other income:
Interest income	12	56	68	207
Realized gain (loss) on foreign currency translation	277	(166)	308	(172)
Realized gain on investments	8		8
Total other income (expense)	297	(110)	384	35
Income (loss) before income taxes	(844)	11,775	(10,501)	55,509
Income tax benefit (expense)	1,116	(3,589)	6,094	(18,311)
Net income (loss)	$ 272	$ 8,186	$ (4,407)	$ 37,198
Net income (loss) per common share
Basic	$ 0.01	$ 0.36	$ (0.20)	$ 1.62
Diluted	$ 0.01	$ 0.35	$ (0.20)	$ 1.57
Weighted average common shares outstanding used in computing net income (loss) per common share
Basic	22,524,611	22,822,286	22,519,171	22,948,980
Diluted	23,050,618	23,410,525	22,519,171	23,760,859

XML

Significant Customers

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Significant Customers [Abstract]

SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS

6. SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS

For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the Company had two customers that accounted for approximately 44% and 35% of revenue, respectively, and for the three months ended September 30, 2011, the Company had one customer that accounted for approximately 60% of revenue. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company had two customers that accounted for approximately 44% and 20% of revenue, respectively, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company had three customers that accounted for approximately 32%, 22% and 13% of revenue, respectively.

Customers individually representing more than 10% of trade receivables accounted for approximately 86% and 89% of accounts receivable as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company grants credit to customers based on an evaluation of their financial condition. Losses from credit sales are provided for in the financial statements.

XML

Related Party Transactions

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Related Party Transactions [Abstract]

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

5. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

In November 2008, the Company purchased 1,345,444 shares of Peregrine Series D-1 Preferred shares for a total of $2.0 million, which represented less than 1% of Peregrine’s shares outstanding. The terms and stock price of the purchase were the same as for the other investors who participated. Peregrine is a customer of the Company. On August 8, 2012, Peregrine completed its initial public offering, which resulted in a conversion of the preferred shares to common stock at a ratio of 7.34:1, or 183,303 shares of common stock. There is a lock out period until February, 2013 during which the Company can not sell these shares. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 the Company recorded an unrealized gain on investments of $1.1 million. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, revenue from Peregrine was $8.7 million and $20.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, accounts receivable from Peregrine were $4.3 million and $2.0 million, respectively. The pricing terms and conditions of the sales to Peregrine are similar to those available to the Company’s other non-related customers.

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Inventories
Raw materials	$ 20,584	$ 7,835
Work in progress	19,862	9,776
Finished goods	5,365	5,212
Inventory, Gross	$ 45,811	$ 22,823

XML

Segment Information (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Segment Information [Abstract]

Summary of revenue by geographic region

Revenue is attributed by geographic region based on ship-to location of the Company’s customers. The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Korea	$	6,929	$	20,324	$	9,332	$	37,309
United States		4,256		4,240		8,842		9,251
France		2,245		—		8,482		356
Australia		4,702		—		8,430		14
Taiwan		417		4,208		5,657		49,846
China		921		575		3,501		3,533
Japan		152		2,612		492		11,115
Other		320		1,678		2,416		3,211
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

Summary of revenue by product type

The following table summarizes revenue by product type:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2012		2011		2012		2011
	(in thousands)				(in thousands)
Core	$	1,344	$	6,602	$	9,417	$	61,622
Polished		16,580		25,117		32,709		48,077
Optical		1,558		1,909		4,525		4,912
Research & Development		422		—		447		15
Other		38		9		54		9
Total Revenue	$	19,942	$	33,637	$	47,152	$	114,635

Summary of assets by geographic region

The following table summarizes assets by geographic region:

	September 30, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(in thousands)
United States	$	209,868	$	223,430
Malaysia		36,575		36,492
Other		30		30
Total Assets	$	246,473	$	259,952

XML

Commitments and Contingencies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Purchase Commitments

The Company has entered into agreements to purchase equipment and components to construct and maintain furnaces. These agreements will result in the Company purchasing equipment or components for a total cost of approximately $3.3 million with deliveries occurring through February 2013.

Litigation

From time to time, the Company experiences routine litigation in the normal course of its business. The management of the Company does not believe any pending litigation will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company.

XML

Stockholders' Equity

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

7. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common Stock

As of September 30, 2012, the Company had reserved 2,142,719 shares of common stock for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding common stock options. Also, 2,190,004 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for future grants of stock options (or other similar equity instruments) under the Company’s 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”) as of September 30, 2012. In addition, 267,826 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for future exercise of outstanding warrants as of September 30, 2012.

Warrants

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, 13,735 common stock warrants were exercised in full on a “net exercise basis”, which resulted in the Company issuing 2,188 shares of common stock to the warrant holders. At September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, there were 267,826 and 281,561 common stock warrants outstanding, respectively.

Treasury Stock

On August 4, 2011, the Company authorized a stock repurchase program to purchase up to $25.0 million of its common stock over a period of two years. The stock repurchase program authorizes the Company to repurchase its shares of common stock in the open market at times and prices considered appropriate by the Company depending upon prevailing market conditions and other corporate considerations. The treasury shares are accounted for using the cost method whereby the entire cost of the acquired stock is recorded as treasury stock. The Company did not repurchase any shares during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012.

XML

Stock Incentive Plans

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract]

STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

8. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

The Company sponsored a stock option plan, the 2001 Plan, which allowed for the granting of incentive and nonqualified stock options for the purchase of common stock. The maximum number of shares that may be awarded or sold under the 2001 Plan was 1,449,667 shares. Each option entitles the holder to purchase one share of common stock at the specified option exercise price. The exercise price of each incentive stock option granted must not be less than the fair market value on the grant date. At the discretion of management and with the approval of the Board of Directors, the Company granted options under the 2001 Plan. Management and the Board of Directors determined vesting periods and expiration dates at the time of the grant. On August 2, 2011, the plan expired.

In August 2007, the Company adopted the 2007 Plan, which allows for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards and bonus shares. On June 22, 2011, the stockholders of the Company approved an amendment to the 2007 Plan to increase the maximum number of shares that may be awarded or sold under the 2007 Plan by 2,100,000, from 2,307,692 to 4,407,692 shares. The Board of Directors has appointed a committee to administer the plan. The plan committee determines the type of award to be granted, the fair market value, the number of shares covered by the award, and the time when the award vests and may be exercised.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to value stock options issued after January 1, 2006. The Company uses historical stock prices of companies that it considers as a peer group as the basis for its volatility assumptions. The assumed risk-free rates were based on U.S. Treasury rates in effect at the time of grant with a term consistent with the expected option lives. The expected term is based upon the vesting term of the Company’s options, a review of a peer group of companies, and expected exercise behavior. The forfeiture rate is based on past history of forfeited options. The expense is being allocated using the straight-line method. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded $455,000 and $1.4 million, respectively, of stock compensation expense. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded $857,000 and $2.5 million, respectively, of stock compensation expense. As of September 30, 2012, the Company has $3.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards granted under the Company’s stock-based plans that it expects to recognize over a weighted-average period of 2.29 years. The Company accounts for options issued prior to January 1, 2006 under the intrinsic value method.

The following table summarizes the activity of the stock incentive and equity plans as of September 30, 2012 and changes during the nine months then ended:

	Shares available for grant			Number of options outstanding			Weighted- average option exercise price		Number of restricted stock and board shares issued
At December 31, 2011		2,259,999			2,093,108		$	13.45		42,587
Granted		(94,595	)		77,250			9.74		17,345
Exercised		—			(2,885	)		4.00		—
Cancelled/forfeited		24,600			(24,754	)		16.44		—
At September 30, 2012		2,190,004			2,142,719		$	13.27		59,932

The Company’s aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the underlying stock options and the fair value of the Company’s common stock. Based on the fair market value of the common stock at September 30, 2012 and 2011, there is no intrinsic value for options outstanding. The weighted average fair value per share of options granted for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $9.74 and the fair value of each option grant was estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using an expected term of 5.3 years, risk-free interest rates of 0.83%-1.04%, expected volatility of 52% and no dividend yield. The Company used an expected forfeiture rate of 16.59%.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company recorded $41,000 and $122,000, respectively, of stock compensation expense related to restricted stock. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company recorded $41,000 and $125,000, respectively, of stock compensation expense related to restricted stock.

A summary of the Company’s non-vested options during the nine month period ended September 30, 2012 is presented below:

	Options			Weighted- average exercise price
Non-vested at January 1, 2012		1,313,177		$	15.42
Granted		77,250			9.74
Vested		(402,163	)		14.37
Forfeited		(21,650	)		17.68
Non-vested at September 30, 2012		966,614		$	15.36

An analysis of restricted stock issued is as follows:

Non-vested restricted stock as of December 31, 2011	1,931
Granted	17,345
Vested	(10,603	)
Non-vested restricted stock as of September 30, 2012	8,673

XML

Income Taxes

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Income Taxes [Abstract]

INCOME TAXES

10. INCOME TAXES

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and Malaysia. In accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes”, the Company assesses on a quarterly basis its ability to realize its deferred tax assets. The tax provision for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 is based on an estimated effective tax rate which requires the Company to make its best estimate of annual pretax income. The Company recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 a tax benefit of $1.1 million and $6.1 million, respectively. The tax benefit relates to 2012 and several previous tax years which includes $424,000 in income tax benefits related to recording unrecognized state tax credits from previous tax years. The Company has concluded that these amounts are immaterial to the consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012. The Company recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 a tax expense of $3.6 million and $18.3 million, respectively, for an effective tax rate of 30.5% and 33.0%, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, the difference between the Company’s effective tax rate and the U.S. federal 34% statutory rate was primarily related to profits recorded in the Company’s Malaysia operation for which the Company has a tax holiday, intercompany interest taxable in the U.S., additional tax credits and the reversal of an unrecognized tax benefit.

XML

Investments (Details Textual) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	$ 36,570,000	$ 50,528,000
Investments (Textual) [Abstract]
Time deposits of cash and cash equivalents	2,000,000	3,500,000
U.S. Treasury securities [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	3,500,000
Corporate notes/bonds [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	11,300,000
Commercial paper [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	14,900,000
FDIC Guaranteed Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	3,800,000
Common Stock [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Short-term investments	$ 3,100,000

XML

Stock Incentive Plans (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract]

Summary of activity of stock incentive and equity plans

The following table summarizes the activity of the stock incentive and equity plans as of September 30, 2012 and changes during the nine months then ended:

	Shares available for grant			Number of options outstanding			Weighted- average option exercise price		Number of restricted stock and board shares issued
At December 31, 2011		2,259,999			2,093,108		$	13.45		42,587
Granted		(94,595	)		77,250			9.74		17,345
Exercised		—			(2,885	)		4.00		—
Cancelled/forfeited		24,600			(24,754	)		16.44		—
At September 30, 2012		2,190,004			2,142,719		$	13.27		59,932

Summary of the non-vested options

A summary of the Company’s non-vested options during the nine month period ended September 30, 2012 is presented below:

	Options			Weighted- average exercise price
Non-vested at January 1, 2012		1,313,177		$	15.42
Granted		77,250			9.74
Vested		(402,163	)		14.37
Forfeited		(21,650	)		17.68
Non-vested at September 30, 2012		966,614		$	15.36

Analysis of restricted stock issued

An analysis of restricted stock issued is as follows:

Non-vested restricted stock as of December 31, 2011	1,931
Granted	17,345
Vested	(10,603	)
Non-vested restricted stock as of September 30, 2012	8,673

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 4) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Activity of accumulated comprehensive income (loss)
Beginning Balance			$ (50)	$ (10)	$ (10)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes	638	(62)	681	(81)	(42)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation	(1)	1	(5)		2
Ending Balance	$ 626		$ 626		$ (50)

XML

Stock Incentive Plans (Details Textual) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		1 Months Ended
	Aug. 02, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Jan. 01, 2006	Sep. 30, 2012 Restricted stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2011 Restricted stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Restricted stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2011 Restricted stock [Member]	Jun. 30, 2011 2007 Plan [Member]	Jun. 22, 2011 2007 Plan [Member] Maximum [Member]	Jun. 22, 2011 2007 Plan [Member] Minimum [Member]	Aug. 02, 2011 2001 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares awarded or sold												4,407,692	2,307,692	1,449,667
Plan expiration date	Aug. 02, 2011
Increase in maximum number of shares awarded or sold under 2007 plan											2,100,000
Stock compensation expense		$ 455,000	$ 857,000	$ 1,400,000	$ 2,500,000		$ 41,000	$ 41,000	$ 122,000	$ 125,000
Stock Incentive Plans (Textual) [Abstract]
Unrecognized compensation cost related to non vested awards		3,600,000		3,600,000
Stock based plan expect to recognize weighted average period				2 years 3 months 15 days
Intrinsic value of the options outstanding and exercisable		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Weighted average fair value per share of options granted				$ 9.74
Expected term				5 years 3 months 18 days
Risk free interest rate, Minimum				0.83%
Risk free interest rate, Maximum				1.04%
Expected volatility				52.00%
Dividend yield				0.00%
Expected forfeiture rate				16.59%
Options Issue Date Under Intrinsic Value Method						Jan. 01, 2006

XML

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 272	$ 8,186	$ (4,407)	$ 37,198
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of taxes	638	(62)	681	(81)
Unrealized gain (loss) on currency translation	(1)	1	(5)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	637	(61)	676	(81)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 909	$ 8,125	$ (3,731)	$ 37,117

XML

Investments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Investments [Abstract]

INVESTMENTS

4. INVESTMENTS

The Company invests available cash primarily in investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. The Company’s short-term investments balance of $36.6 million as of September 30, 2012, is comprised of U.S. Treasury securities of $3.5 million, corporate notes and bonds of $11.3 million, commercial paper of $14.9 million, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposit of $3.8 million and common stock of $3.1 million. The Company’s investments are classified as available-for-sale securities and are carried at fair market value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at September 30, 2012:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	3,516	$	—	$	1	$	3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		3,808		—		4		3,804
Common stock		2,000		1,105		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		11,317		—		6		11,311
Commercial Paper		14,839		—		4		14,835
Total short-term investments	$	35,480	$	1,105	$	15	$	36,570

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at December 31, 2011:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	4,500	$	—	$	—	$	4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		37,085		—		37		37,048
Commercial Paper		8,992		—		12		8,980
Total short-term investments	$	50,577	$	—	$	49	$	50,528
Long-term Investments:
Peregrine Semiconductor, Corp. Series D-1 Preferred shares	$	2,000	$	—	$	—	$	2,000

The Company values its investments at fair value, defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Valuation techniques used to measure fair value must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The standard below describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value which are the following:

• Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

• Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

• Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

The Company’s fixed income available-for-sale securities consist of high quality, investment grade commercial paper, corporate notes, FDIC guaranteed certificates of deposits, common stock, and government securities. The Company values these securities based on pricing from pricing vendors, who may use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1 inputs) or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable either directly or indirectly (Level 2 inputs) in determining fair value. The valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments having Level 2 inputs were derived from non-binding market consensus prices that are corroborated by observable market data, quoted market prices for similar instruments, or pricing models, such as discounted cash flow techniques.

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2012:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	5,708	$	—	$	—	$	5,708
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		3,515		—		3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		—		3,804		—		3,804
Common stock		3,105		—		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		—		11,311		—		11,311
Commercial paper		—		14,835		—		14,835
Total	$	8,813	$	33,465	$	—	$	42,278

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	839	$	—	$	—	$	839
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		4,500		—		4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		—		37,048		—		37,048
Commercial paper		—		8,980		—		8,980
Total	$	839	$	50,528	$	—	$	51,367

In addition to the debt securities noted above, the Company had approximately $2.0 million and $3.5 million of time deposits included in cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Textual) [Abstract]
Impairment of investments		$ 0
Increased in cost of goods sold	$ 927,000	$ 927,000

XML

Stock Incentive Plans (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Shares available for grant
Shares available for grant, Beginning balance	2,259,999
Shares available for grant, Granted	(94,595)
Shares available for grant, Exercised
Shares available for grant, Cancelled/forfeited	24,600
Shares available for grant, Ending balance	2,190,004
Number of options outstanding
Number of options outstanding, Beginning balance	2,093,108
Number of options outstanding, Granted	77,250
Number of options outstanding, Exercised	(2,885)
Number of options outstanding, Cancelled/forfeited	(24,754)
Number of options outstanding, Ending balance	2,142,719
Weighted average option exercise price
Weighted average option exercise price, Beginning balance	$ 13.45
Weighted average option exercise price, Granted	$ 9.74
Weighted average option exercise price, Exercised	$ 4.00
Weighted average option exercise price, Cancelled/forfeited	$ 16.44
Weighted average option exercise price, Ending balance	$ 13.27
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued, Beginning balance	42,587
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued, Granted	17,345
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued, Exercised	13,735
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued, Cancelled/forfeited
Number of restricted stock and board shares issued, Ending balance	59,932

XML

Investments (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Investments [Abstract]

Amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at September 30, 2012:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	3,516	$	—	$	1	$	3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		3,808		—		4		3,804
Common stock		2,000		1,105		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		11,317		—		6		11,311
Commercial Paper		14,839		—		4		14,835
Total short-term investments	$	35,480	$	1,105	$	15	$	36,570

The following table presents the amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses on all securities at December 31, 2011:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Short-term Investments:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency	$	4,500	$	—	$	—	$	4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		37,085		—		37		37,048
Commercial Paper		8,992		—		12		8,980
Total short-term investments	$	50,577	$	—	$	49	$	50,528
Long-term Investments:
Peregrine Semiconductor, Corp. Series D-1 Preferred shares	$	2,000	$	—	$	—	$	2,000

Summarized financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2012:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	5,708	$	—	$	—	$	5,708
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		3,515		—		3,515
FDIC Guaranteed certificates of deposit		—		3,804		—		3,804
Common stock		3,105		—		—		3,105
Corporate notes/bonds		—		11,311		—		11,311
Commercial paper		—		14,835		—		14,835
Total	$	8,813	$	33,465	$	—	$	42,278

The following table summarizes the Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(in thousands)
Cash Equivalents:
Money market funds	$	839	$	—	$	—	$	839
Investments:
Available-for-sales securities—current:
U.S. Treasury securities and agency		—		4,500		—		4,500
Corporate notes/bonds		—		37,048		—		37,048
Commercial paper		—		8,980		—		8,980
Total	$	839	$	50,528	$	—	$	51,367