2. Extractive metallurgy

2.1 Natural state

The main chromium ores are listed in table 1 in order of importance.

Chromite, or chromium ore, belongs to the spinel group.

Pure chromite or FeCr ₂ O ₄ iron chromite contains 46.6% chromium and 67.90% Cr ₂ O ₃ oxide. Rhodesian rocks contain an average of 48% of this oxide.