Mineral

Fuchsite

Chromium-rich Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)

Hardness: 2-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Emerald-green to light green, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9.

Hardness: 2-2

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Emerald-green to light green, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9.

Formation & geological history

Metamorphic formation found primarily in phyllites and schists where chromium-bearing fluids interact with mica during regional metamorphism. Common in Precambrian greenstone belts.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative stone, in lapidary work for cabochons, as a source for green pigment, and occasionally as a minor ore of chromium. Popular among metaphysical collectors.

Geological facts

Fuchsite is named after the German chemist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. It is a chrome-bearing variety of muscovite, where chromium replaces aluminum in the crystal lattice to give its distinctive green hue.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its mica-like flaky habit, emerald green color, and softness (can be scratched by a fingernail). Commonly found in Brazil, India, Russia, and the Alps.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral