Chromite (FeCr₂O₄) is the ore of chromium. It’s found in serpentinites and is associated with ophiolites. Both are found in Northern California and particularly here in the State of Jefferson. The deposits are too small and too scattered and the countryside is too rugged for any commercial interest. Chromium (#24) is an essential ingredient in making stainless steels.

Most chromite today comes from South Africa. During WWII New Guinea was a major supplier. When the Japanese Army was chased out by US forces they lost out on the resource. Japan had to make do with inferior grade steels at the end of the conflict.

Worldwide production is on the order of 30 million tonnes annually. Chromium is not toxic itself but its compounds can be. Hexavalent chromium—Cr(VI)—and the chromate salts formed from that are carcinogens.