Chromite
Image: Andrew Silver (Public domain)
Mineral NameChromite
Chemical FormulaFeCr2O4
Mohs Hardness5.5
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorbrownish black
Cleavagenone
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.5
Colorsblack, brownish black
Transparencyopaque
Type Localityunknown
Mineral GroupOxides
Useschromium ore, refractory material, pigments, chemical industry
Associated Mineralsolivine, pyroxene, serpentine, magnetite
Raritycommon
Description
The image displays a dark, black, massive to granular specimen of chromite, appearing somewhat dull to submetallic, with a pen for scale.
Geological Context
Chromite is typically found in ultramafic igneous rocks such as peridotites and serpentinites, often occurring in layered intrusions and ophiolite complexes, where it crystallizes early from magma.
