mineral
Muscovite Mica
Muscovite (KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Silvery-white, gray, or brown; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels into thin sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.76-3.00
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Silvery-white, gray, or brown
- Luster
- Pearly to Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Silvery-white, gray, or brown; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels into thin sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.76-3.00
Formation & geological history
Formed primary in igneous rocks like granites and pegmatites, and through regional metamorphism in rocks like schists and gneisses.
Uses & applications
Used as an electrical insulator in electronics, in joint compound, as a glitter additive in cosmetics, and in high-temperature furnace windows.
Geological facts
Muscovite was historically used as a glass substitute for windows in Russia, leading to the name 'Muscovy Glass.' It is highly resistant to heat and chemicals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its shiny, silvery metallic appearance and its ability to be split into very thin, flexible, transparent sheets. Commonly found in micaceous schists and pegmatite deposits.
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