mineral

Fuchsite

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

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Emerald green to light green; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect micaceous; Specific Gravity: 2.8 - 2.9

Hardness: 2-2
Color: Emerald green to light green
Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Identified March 18, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Emerald green to light green; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect micaceous; Specific Gravity: 2.8 - 2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed through the regional metamorphism of rocks containing chromium. It is often found in phyllites or schists where hydrothermal activity has altered the chemical composition. It can be found in formations dating back to the Archean era.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons), and as a decorative mineral specimen. It is also ground for use as a green pigment and glitter in cosmetics and paints.

Geological facts

Fuchsite is named after the German chemist and mineralogist Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs. Its intense green color is caused by the presence of trivalent chromium replacing aluminum in the mica structure. When fuchsite is found as small inclusions within quartzite, the rock is known as 'Aventurine'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct bright green color, flaky/micaceous texture, and softness (can be scratched by a fingernail). It is commonly found in Brazil, India, Russia, and South Africa. Collectors should look for its characteristic 'shimmer' or aventurescence when inclusions are present.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral