Verdite
is a variety of Fuchsite,
which is a variety of Muscovite.
Verdite is named from the Latin word viridis meaning
green
for its typical green color. Verdite is a trade name
for a green ornamental rock, not a mineral, since it
is a combination of several minerals. It consists primarily
of Fuchsite with
minor Albite,
Chlorite
Group, Corundum, Diaspore,
Quartz,
Rutile and
Talc.
Verdite is colored green by the presence of chromium
(Cr). Because of its green color, Verdite is sometimes mistaken
for Jade and is often traded as "African Jade".
Verdite was originally reported from North Kaap river, Kaap Station, South Africa.
Another good source of quality Verdite is at Barberton, Ehlanzeni District, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
Verdite
and Jade may look similar but Jade has a much higher Mohs hardness of 6 to 7
compared to Verdite's hardness of about 3.
Verdite is found in colors of green, yellowish-green,
bluish-green or brownish-green and often has a motled
or swirled appearance. Because of its mix of several
minerals, inclusions of Rutile, Ruby or Sapphire, Quartz
and Tourmaline may be visible. Verdite is usually opaque
but may rarely be translucent and has a vitreous, silky
or pearly luster. Verdite is mostly available as cabochons,
carvings and spheres but may also be available as faceted
gems.
|