Chromite

Chromite is a mineral composed mainly of iron and magnesium mixed with chromium, forming an ore that is the primary source of chromium metal. It appears as a dark, metallic mineral with a metallic luster and is typically found in layered igneous rocks. Chromite is essential for producing stainless steel, casting alloys, and chrome plating due to its high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance. Geologists and mining companies extract chromite through open-pit or underground mining, and it is processed to separate the chromium content for industrial use.