mineral
Fuchsite
Chromian Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright emerald green, light green, or yellowish-green due to chromium content. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Monoclinic, typically found as flaky, micaceous masses or tiny scales. Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, yielding flexible sheets.…
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Bright emerald green, light green, or yellowish-green due to chromium content. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Monoclinic, typically found as flaky, micaceous masses or tiny scales. Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, yielding flexible sheets. Specific gravity: 2.7-3.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed in low-grade metamorphic rocks, particularly in chromium-rich quartz veins, schists, and gneisses, often associated with hydrothermal alteration.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a mineral specimen for collectors, in lapidary arts for decorative carvings, and sometimes as a source of chromium or in metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Fuchsite is a chromium-rich variety of muscovite mica. When it occurs as fine-grained green inclusions within quartz, the resulting aggregate is known as aventurine quartz.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive silvery-green color, micaceous flaky habit, and softness. Commonly found in countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, and the United States (California).
