Mineral
Fuchsite
K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale to deep emerald green. Luster: Pearly to vitreous. Crystal structure: Monoclinic. Cleavage: Perfect on {001}. Specific gravity: 2.77-2.88.
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Color
- Pale to deep emerald green
- Luster
- Pearly to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale to deep emerald green. Luster: Pearly to vitreous. Crystal structure: Monoclinic. Cleavage: Perfect on {001}. Specific gravity: 2.77-2.88.
Formation & geological history
Fuchsite is a chromium-rich variety of muscovite mica. It forms as a secondary mineral in metamorphic rocks, often in phyllites, schists, and some marbles, where chromium-bearing fluids have altered pre-existing minerals.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a collector's mineral and in lapidary for carving or tumbling. Massive varieties are sometimes used as ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Fuchsite was named after the German mineralogist and chemist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. It is responsible for the green color in ruby in fuchsite and verdite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its micaceous, flaky habit, green color, and low hardness. Often found in Brazil, India, Zimbabwe, and Russia.
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Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
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Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary