metamorphic
Schist
Mica Schist
Hardness: 3.5-4; Color: Silvery-gray, greenish-tan, or bronze; Luster: Sub-metallic to pearly due to mica; Structure: Foliated with visible mineral grains (schistosity); Specific Gravity: 2.7-2.8
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Silvery-gray, greenish-tan, or bronze
- Luster
- Sub-metallic to pearly due to mica
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4; Color: Silvery-gray, greenish-tan, or bronze; Luster: Sub-metallic to pearly due to mica; Structure: Foliated with visible mineral grains (schistosity); Specific Gravity: 2.7-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of shale or mudstone under intermediate to high temperatures and pressures. Most common in Precambrian or Paleozoic mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Used historically as a building stone, for decorative flagstones, and in some industrial lubricants. Large decorative slabs are used for landscaping.
Geological facts
The word 'schist' comes from the Greek 'schistos', meaning 'split', referring to the ease with which these rocks can be divided into thin plates.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'shimmery' appearance when turned in sunlight and its tendency to flake into layers. Often found in riverbeds near mountainous or metamorphic terrains.
More like this
