metamorphic
Ruby in Fuchsite
Corundum (Al2O3) in Chromium-rich Muscovite (K(Al,Cr)2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness varies widely: Ruby ~9, Fuchsite matrix ~2-3 on the Mohs scale; light to medium green matrix with inclusions of purplish-red to magenta corundum (ruby), often surrounded by a pale blue-green or whitish alteration rim (kyanite or paragonite); pearly to vitreous luster.
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Physical properties
Hardness varies widely: Ruby ~9, Fuchsite matrix ~2-3 on the Mohs scale; light to medium green matrix with inclusions of purplish-red to magenta corundum (ruby), often surrounded by a pale blue-green or whitish alteration rim (kyanite or paragonite); pearly to vitreous luster.
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism of aluminum- and chromium-bearing pelitic or ultramafic rocks under moderate to high temperatures and pressures.
Uses & applications
Popular lapidary material polished into cabochons, carved into ornamental objects (eggs, spheres, figurines), beads, and highly sought by crystal collectors.
Geological facts
Under long-wave ultraviolet light, the ruby crystals typically display a brilliant bright red or pink fluorescence due to trace chromium content. It is frequently confused with Ruby in Zoisite (anyolite), but can be distinguished by the blue-green reaction rim around the rubies and the softer mica matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identified by magenta hexagonal ruby crystals embedded in a sparkly green mica schist, typically with bluish reaction rims. The most famous commercial deposits are located in southern India, particularly in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
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