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Muscovite (var. Fuchsite) identification and geology

Chromium-bearing variety of muscovite mica with a distinctive emerald-green color. Often found in aventurine quartz. Color: Emerald green. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Streak: White. Cleavage: Perfect basal. Hardness: 2-2.5. Transparency: Transparent to translucent. Crystal system: Monoclinic. Chemical formula: K Al,Cr ₂ AlSi₃O₁₀ OH ₂. Specific gravity: 2.77-2.88. Formation: Forms in chromium-rich metamorphic rocks, particularly in altered ultramafic rocks. Common geological settings: India, Brazil, Russia, Zimbabwe; found in metamorphic rocks associated with chromium. Common look-alikes and related entries: Muscovite, Chlorite, Verdite.

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Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner
GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-02-10T20:25:54.470219+00:00
Review status
Published; not independently peer-reviewed
  • IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
  • Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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Common questions

What is Muscovite var. Fuchsite?
Chromium-bearing variety of muscovite mica with a distinctive emerald-green color. Often found in aventurine quartz.
How can you identify Muscovite var. Fuchsite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Emerald green; lustre: Vitreous to pearly; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 2-2.5; cleavage: Perfect basal; crystal system: Monoclinic; transparency: Transparent to translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Muscovite var. Fuchsite form?
Forms in chromium-rich metamorphic rocks, particularly in altered ultramafic rocks.
Where is Muscovite var. Fuchsite commonly found?
India, Brazil, Russia, Zimbabwe; found in metamorphic rocks associated with chromium.
What is Muscovite var. Fuchsite commonly confused with?
Muscovite var. Fuchsite may be confused with Muscovite, Chlorite, Verdite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.

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