mineral

Fuchsite

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

Hardness: 2-2.5; Color: Emerald green; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (usually micaceous/massive); Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.8 - 3.0

Hardness: 2-2
Color: Emerald green
Luster: Pearly to Vitreous

Identified May 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2-2.5; Color: Emerald green; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (usually micaceous/massive); Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.8 - 3.0

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic environments, specifically as a result of regional metamorphism of rocks that contain chromium. Often associated with phyllites or schists.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone, as a pigment in painting, and in metaphysical/gemstone collecting.

Geological facts

Fuchsite is named after the German chemist and mineralogist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. It is essentially a green variety of muscovite mica where chromium replaces some of the aluminum in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its vibrant green color and typical mica-like sheet structure (cleavage flakes). Common in metamorphic belts in Brazil, India, and Russia.

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