metamorphic

Garnet-bearing schist

Mica schist with garnet porphyroblasts; garnet likely almandine, Fe₃Al₂(SiO₄)₃

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Gray, foliated, sparkly matrix with dark red-brown, faceted garnets. Garnet hardness 6.5–7.5 Mohs; mica about 2–3, with platy cleavage; garnet has cubic crystal structure and no cleavage.

Identified October 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Gray, foliated, sparkly matrix with dark red-brown, faceted garnets. Garnet hardness 6.5–7.5 Mohs; mica about 2–3, with platy cleavage; garnet has cubic crystal structure and no cleavage.

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rock was buried, heated, and compressed during regional metamorphism; garnet grew within the schist. Such rocks formed in many geologic eras, so age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Primarily a teaching or collector specimen; garnet is also used in jewelry and as an industrial abrasive.

Geological facts

Garnets commonly grow as conspicuous crystals, or porphyroblasts, within foliated metamorphic rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify schist by its visible mica sheen and aligned, flaky texture; garnets are harder, glassy, and commonly reddish. Garnet schists occur in metamorphic mountain belts worldwide.