metamorphic

Likely biotite-rich schist

Mica schist, likely biotite-rich; exact minerals cannot be confirmed from the photo

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray to silvery, flaky and strongly foliated, with reflective mica grains. Mica has Mohs hardness about 2–3 and perfect basal cleavage; associated minerals may be harder.

Identified September 28, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Dark gray to silvery, flaky and strongly foliated, with reflective mica grains. Mica has Mohs hardness about 2–3 and perfect basal cleavage; associated minerals may be harder.

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rock was metamorphosed under heat and pressure, aligning mica into layers. Its age cannot be determined from appearance alone.

Uses & applications

Used mainly as a decorative or educational specimen; schist may also be used locally as building or landscaping stone.

Geological facts

The glittering flakes are likely mica reflecting light from their flat cleavage surfaces.

Field identification & locations

Look for a platy texture and layers that split along mica-rich planes; confirm with a fresh surface and mineral tests. Schist occurs in metamorphic belts worldwide.