mineral

Fuchsite

Chromium-rich Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)

Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale. Color: Emerald-green to pale green. Luster: Pearly to vitreous. Crystal structure: Monoclinic (often appears micaceous or flaky). Cleavage: Perfect basal. Specific gravity: 2.8-3.0.

Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale
Color: Emerald-green to pale green
Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Identified May 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in metamorphic rocks such as phyllites and schists through the hydrothermal alteration of chromium-bearing minerals in ultra-mafic rocks.

Uses & applications

Used largely as an ornamental stone, in gemstone carvings, and as a collector's specimen. It is also ground up for use as a green pigment in paints and cosmetics.

Geological facts

Fuchsite is named after the German chemist and mineralogist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. It is a variety of muscovite mica where chromium replaces some of the aluminum, giving it a vibrant green hue.

Field identification & locations

Field identification involves checking for a micaceous (flaky) texture and the distinct bright green color. It is often found in Madagascar, Brazil, and Russia. Collectors should look for specimens that don't crumble easily.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral