metamorphic
Fuchsite in Quartz (or Emerald in Fuchsite / Verdite)
Chromian Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2) in Quartz Matrix
Hardness: 2.5-3 for fuchsite component, up to 7 for quartz-rich parts. Color: Bright emerald green to pale sea-green with silvery mica speckles. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (fuchsite) / Trigonal (quartz). Cleavage: Perfect basal on mica grains. Specific Gravity: ~2.8-3.0.
- Hardness
- 2
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Fuchsite in Quartz (or Emerald in Fuchsite / Verdite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3 for fuchsite component, up to 7 for quartz-rich parts. Color: Bright emerald green to pale sea-green with silvery mica speckles. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (fuchsite) / Trigonal (quartz). Cleavage: Perfect basal on mica grains. Specific Gravity: ~2.8-3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed in low- to medium-grade metamorphic rocks, particularly in schists and quartzites enriched with chromium during hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Popular as a decorative gemstone, tumbled pocket stone, carving material, and ornamental lapidary stone. Highly sought after by mineral collectors and metaphysical enthusiasts.
Geological facts
Fuchsite is a chromium-rich variety of muscovite mica. The vivid green color is directly caused by trace amounts of trivalent chromium replacing aluminum in the crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive emerald-green color, silvery reflective mica flakes, and variable hardness depending on quartz content. Frequently mined in South Africa, Brazil, India, and Madagascar.
More like this
