The synthesis and characterization of Ga
1-xMn
xN thick layers are reported. The layers were preparedby the modified sublimation sandwich method (SSM) from GaN powder and powdered Mn sources andreacted with ammonia. Ga
1-xMn
xN layers having a current maximum size of 60
m thickness and 10mm × 10 mm area were obtained. The crystals of best crystalline quality were obtained with a growthrate of 25
m/h. SIMS measurements showed the presence of layers containing up to 4 atom % Mn.Measurements involving X-ray diffraction (structure refinement), rocking curves, map of reflections,and EXAFS confirmed good structural properties without phase separation. The measurements carriedout by a superconducting quantum interferometer showed that the material revealed typical paramagneticproperties.