Fuchsite
Chromium works its mineral-magic to make fuchsite appealingly green. The presence of chromium in gemstones (think ruby and emerald) is most often indicative of exciting color. Fuchsite is an excellent example of the effects of chromium. This sparkling green mica is a variety of muscovite. Micas are often added to makeup - they are the additive most responsible for the "youthful glow" that is so pleasing in foundations and eye shadows.
Fuchsite Classification
Common Name |
Fuchsite |
Fuchsite Optical Properties
Birefringence |
0.036 |
Fuchsite Characteristic Physical properties
Specific Gravity |
2.78 |
Stability |
Poor |
Phlogopite
Phlogopite is the reddish brown, gray, green, yellow variety of muscovite mica. It is sometimes called magnesium mica.
Phlogopite Classification
Common Name |
Phlogopite |
Phlogopite Characteristic Physical properties
Toughness |
Poor |
Stability |
Poor |
Verdite
Verdite is an opaque stone made up mostly of fuchsite that is used for ornamental objects. It is known to come from South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Verdite Classification
Common Name |
Verdite |
Verdite Optical Properties
Refractive Index |
Typical 1.580 |
Verdite Characteristic Physical properties
Specific Gravity |
2.80 |
Toughness |
Poor |
Inclusions |
It has a mottled structure and might display red or spots |
Stability |
Poor |
Lepidolite
Lepidolite is a beautiful lithium-rich member of the mica mineral family. Violet to pink in color, lepidolite has a scaly appearance seen in many specimens. This gemstone is not commonly known to be faceted and is primarily used in ornamental and decorative pieces.
Lepidolite Classification
Common Name |
Lepidolite |
Lepidolite Characteristic Physical properties
Specific Gravity |
2.800 |
Toughness |
Poor |
Inclusions |
Many lepidolite specimens have a scaly appearance |
Stability |
Poor |