metamorphic

Foliated mica-rich metamorphic rock, likely schist

Mica schist; chiefly quartz, feldspar, muscovite/biotite, with possible amphibole or sulfide minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness is approximately 2–7 depending on grains; gray, silver, black, and tan, with a sparkly micaceous luster and visibly aligned flakes. The irregular specimen shows schistosity/foliation rather than a uniform crystal structure; mica may separate along cleavage planes.

Identified September 1, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Foliated mica-rich metamorphic rock, likely schist
Scientific name: Mica schist; chiefly quartz, feldspar, muscovite/biotite, with possible amphibole or sulfide minerals
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 1, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $3–$20 for a common hand specimen; $20–$75 if unusually attractive, locality-labeled, or mineral-rich.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when preexisting clay-rich sediment or volcanic rock was buried and subjected to elevated temperature and directed pressure, producing aligned mica; commonly Paleozoic to Precambrian in exposed metamorphic terrains.

Uses & applications

Mostly used as decorative or landscaping stone and as a teaching/collecting specimen; strongly foliated schist has limited construction value because it splits easily.

Geological facts

Mica’s reflective flakes commonly create the glittering appearance, while quartz and feldspar form harder, granular patches. Dark grains could be biotite, amphibole, or weathered sulfides, which cannot be confirmed from the photograph alone.

Field identification & locations

Look for planar foliation, shiny platy flakes, and grains that crumble or split along mica-rich layers; common in mountain belts worldwide, including the Appalachians, Alps, and Himalaya. A hand lens and streak, hardness, or acid tests would refine identification.