metamorphic
Fuchsite (Green Muscovite / Mica Schist)
Chromian Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale. Color: Emerald green to sea green with silvery sparkling flecks. Luster: Pearly to vitreous, glittery. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, micaceous cleavage sheet structure.
- Hardness
- 2-3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Emerald green to sea green with silvery sparkling flecks
- Luster
- Pearly to vitreous, glittery
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Fuchsite (Green Muscovite / Mica Schist) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale. Color: Emerald green to sea green with silvery sparkling flecks. Luster: Pearly to vitreous, glittery. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, micaceous cleavage sheet structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks or alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks by chromium-bearing hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Popular as a decorative mineral specimen, gemstone carving material, and for metaphysical collections. Occasionally used as an ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Fuchsite is named after the German chemist and mineralogist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. Its distinct green color comes from chromium substituting for aluminum in the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive sparkling metallic green flaky surface and softness (easily scratched by a copper coin). Commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Russia, India, and Madagascar.
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