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Chromite
Chromite
Mineral Properties and Uses
What is Chromite?
Chromite is an iron chromium oxide mineral and the only ore of chromium metal. It is a mineral found in ultrabaisc rocks such as peridotite. It is also found in serpentines and other metamorphic rocks derived from the alteration of ultrabasic rocks. It is a high temperature mineral often found in the lower parts of magma bodies from the fractional crystallization process.
Physical Properties of Chromite |
| Color |
iron black to brownish black |
| Streak |
dark brown |
| Luster |
metallic to submetallic |
| Diaphaneity |
opaque |
| Cleavage |
none |
| Mohs Hardness |
5.5 - 6 |
| Specific Gravity |
4.1 - 5.1 |
| Distinguishing Characteristics |
luster, streak |
| Chemical Composition |
iron chromium oxide, FeCr2O4 |
| Crystal System |
isometric |
Uses of Chromite?
Chromite is the only ore of chromium, a metal used to induce hardness, toughness and chemical resistance in steel. The alloy produced is known as "stainless steel". When alloyed with iron and nickel it produces a alloy known as "nichrome" which is resitant to high temperatures and used to make heating units, ovens and other appliances. Thin coatings of chromium alloys are used as platings on auto parts, appliances and other products and given the name "chrome plated".
| Chromite from the Transvaal area of South Africa. This specimen is approximately 3.5 inches (9 centimeters) across. |
| Chromite from the Transvaal area of South Africa. Specimen is approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) across. |
Find it on Geology.com
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| Chromite from Shurugwi, Zimbabwe. This specimen is approximately 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) across. |
| Chromite from Shurugwi, Zimbabwe. Specimen is approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) across. |
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