mineral
Mica / Muscovite or Biotite
Phyllosilicate mineral group (e.g., KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
Hardness of 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale, golden to brown color, highly reflective pearly to vitreous luster, sheet silicate crystal structure with perfect basal cleavage yielding thin elastic flakes, specific gravity around 2.7-3.1
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Physical properties
Hardness of 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale, golden to brown color, highly reflective pearly to vitreous luster, sheet silicate crystal structure with perfect basal cleavage yielding thin elastic flakes, specific gravity around 2.7-3.1
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous environments (pegmatites and granites), metamorphic rocks (schists and gneisses), and detrital sedimentary rocks through crystallization from cooling magma or high-pressure/temperature metamorphism
Uses & applications
Used in electronics as an electrical insulator, in cosmetics for shimmer, in paints, and in construction materials
Geological facts
Mica can split into sheets so thin they are virtually transparent and are historically known as muscovy glass, used in windows before affordable glass production
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct sheet-like appearance, golden or silvery metallic flash, and flexible, elastic flakes that can be peeled apart with a fingernail
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