mineral
Mica (likely muscovite)
Muscovite, KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale lilac-gray, pearly to vitreous luster; perfect basal cleavage into thin, flexible sheets. Hardness 2–2.5 Mohs; monoclinic, specific gravity about 2.8–2.9. The image alone cannot confirm the color is natural or establish the exact mica species.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Mica (likely muscovite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pale lilac-gray, pearly to vitreous luster; perfect basal cleavage into thin, flexible sheets. Hardness 2–2.5 Mohs; monoclinic, specific gravity about 2.8–2.9. The image alone cannot confirm the color is natural or establish the exact mica species.
Formation & geological history
Muscovite forms in granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks through crystallization or alteration; it occurs in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Mica is used as electrical and thermal insulation, in fillers and cosmetics, and occasionally as a mineral specimen; this small piece has modest collector value.
Geological facts
Mica’s layered crystal structure lets it split into exceptionally thin sheets that remain flexible.
Field identification & locations
Look for flat sheets that peel apart along one perfect cleavage plane; common in pegmatites and mica schists worldwide. Similar-looking lepidolite can be lilac, but typically has a scaly aggregate texture.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous