FERRICHROMITE: REVIEW AND PETROGENETIC IMPLICATIONS Ferrichromite is described in literature as a phase developed over chromite. The most common textural pattern is that of composed grains, with a rounded, sharply bounded core mantled by ferrichromite, which is in turn mantled by magnetite, with a gradational interface between them. The formation process for this array is ascribed to serpentinization, through solid-state diffusion of Mg, Al and, frequently, Cr, from the oxide-phase towards the surrounding silicates (serpentines, chlorites), and simultaneous entry of Fe. The chemical compositions of the chromite cores may have been modified during this process. Ferrichromite is a submicroscopic intergrowth of oxide phases (R 3 O 4 , RO e R 2 O 3), and its chemical composition varies between those of chromite and magnetite, and does not represent a mineral species.