metamorphic
Green schist (probable chlorite–actinolite schist)
Chlorite–actinolite schist; commonly composed of chlorite, actinolite, epidote, albite, and quartz
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically green to gray-green, with a dull to pearly luster and strongly foliated, flaky texture; constituent minerals are generally Mohs 2–6. The specimen appears fine- to medium-grained, heavily weathered, and lacks obvious large crystals.
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Physical properties
Typically green to gray-green, with a dull to pearly luster and strongly foliated, flaky texture; constituent minerals are generally Mohs 2–6. The specimen appears fine- to medium-grained, heavily weathered, and lacks obvious large crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed by low- to medium-grade metamorphism of basaltic or mafic volcanic rocks, commonly during regional mountain-building; age depends on locality and cannot be determined from the image. Its green color reflects chlorite, actinolite, and commonly epidote.
Uses & applications
Used locally as decorative or landscaping stone and occasionally as a teaching or collecting specimen; it has little jewelry value because it is foliated and commonly fractures along cleavage.
Geological facts
Green schist belongs broadly to greenschist-facies metamorphic rocks, formed under conditions roughly around 300–500 °C. The photographed piece may also be a chlorite-rich metavolcanic rock rather than a formally classified schist.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its green color, foliation, flaky cleavage, and association of soft chlorite with harder dark amphibole; it commonly occurs in metamorphic belts worldwide, including the Alps, Appalachians, New Zealand, and Japan. A fresh surface or hand lens would improve identification.
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