chromite series

The chromite series refers to a group of minerals within the spinel family that are isomorphous, meaning they share a similar crystal structure. This series primarily includes magnesiochromite and chromite.1

Chromite (FeCr₂O₄) is a black, metallic oxide mineral composed of chromium and iron. It is the main commercial source of chromium and is considered the principal member of the spinel series of chromium oxides. Magnesiochromite (MgCr₂O₄), an oxide of magnesium and chromium, is the other naturally occurring member of this series.2

These minerals are typically found as brittle masses within peridotites, serpentines, and other basic igneous and metamorphic rocks. Chromite is crucial as it is the primary source for extracting chromium, a hard, steel-gray metal valued for its use in alloys to enhance strength and corrosion resistance.23