magnesiochromite

Magnesiochromite is a mineral belonging to the spinel group, with the chemical formula MgCr2O4. It is the magnesium-rich end-member of the magnesiochromite-hercynite solid solution series. In its pure form, magnesiochromite is a black, opaque mineral. It crystallizes in the cubic system, typically forming octahedral or dodecahedral crystals. Magnesiochromite is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of about 5.5. It is also dense, with a specific gravity around 3.6. This mineral is found in ultramafic and mafic igneous rocks, particularly in peridotites and chromite deposits. It is also known to occur in some metamorphic rocks. Magnesiochromite is an important source of chromium, and significant deposits are mined for its metallurgical applications. The presence of magnesium influences the crystal structure and properties compared to other chromite minerals.