mineral

Fuchsite

Chromian Muscovite - K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Emerald green to pale apple green. Luster: Pearly to silky or vitreous. Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, typically micaceous/foliated mass. Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, breaking into flexible sheets.

Hardness: 2-2
Color: Emerald green to pale apple green
Luster: Pearly to silky or vitreous

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms during low-grade regional or hydrothermal metamorphism of ultramafic rocks or chromium-rich sediments, where chromium replaces aluminum in the muscovite mica structure.

Uses & applications

Popular as an ornamental stone, mineral specimen for collectors, carved figurines, and gemstone cabochons (especially when combined with ruby as Ruby in Fuchsite).

Geological facts

The intense emerald-green color of fuchsite comes from trace amounts of chromium (Cr3+). It is named after the German mineralogist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its bright green color and classic mica-like flaky/foliated texture. Commonly found in Brazil, India, Madagascar, Russia, and South Africa. Easily scratched with a fingernail or copper coin.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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Metamorphic

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock