metamorphic

Likely garnet-bearing metamorphic rock

Garnet-mica schist or amphibolite; probable garnet-group mineral (X3Y2(SiO4)3) with mica/amphibole

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray-green, coarse-grained, with pale reflective cleavage surfaces and possible granular garnet; mica has Mohs hardness 2–3, garnet 6.5–7.5. Luster is vitreous to pearly, and foliation may be present.

Identified September 13, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Likely garnet-bearing metamorphic rock
Scientific name: Garnet-mica schist or amphibolite; probable garnet-group mineral (X3Y2(SiO4)3) with mica/amphibole
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common hand specimen; $30–$100+ if crystals are well formed, unusually large, or from a documented locality.

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 clay-rich or mafic rocks were subjected to elevated heat and pressure during regional metamorphism, commonly during mountain building. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a teaching and collecting specimen; garnet-rich material may be used abrasively, while sound schist or amphibolite can serve as decorative stone or aggregate.

Geological facts

The pale, shiny areas may be mica or feldspar rather than a gemstone. A streak, hardness, and close examination of crystal shape would distinguish garnet schist from amphibolite.

Field identification & locations

Look for foliation, sparkly platy mica, and hard rounded garnet grains; garnet will scratch glass, while mica will not. Common in metamorphic belts worldwide, including New England, the Appalachians, Scandinavia, and India.