mineral

Muscovite Mica (likely on Quartz/Feldspar)

Muscovite - KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2

Hardness: 2–2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Colorless, silvery, or light green/brown, Luster: Vitreous to pearly/metallic, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (platy/micaceous habits), Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels into thin sheets), Specific Gravity: 2.76–3.00

Hardness: 2–2

Identified March 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in igneous rocks like granites and pegmatites, as well as metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses. It forms from the cooling of silica-rich magma or the metamorphism of clay-rich sediments across various geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used as an electrical insulator in high-voltage equipment, a filler in paints and plastics, a lubricant, and in the cosmetics industry (as 'glimmer' or glitter). High-quality specimens are popular for mineral collecting.

Geological facts

Historically, muscovite was used as a glass substitute for windows in Russia, leading to the name 'Muscovy Glass'. It is highly heat resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 700°C.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'peelable' thin, shiny, flexible sheets and metallic sheen. Commonly found in granitic pegmatites. For collectors, look for hexagonal stacked 'books' of mica crystals associated with white quartz or pink feldspar.

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