mineral
Mica (Muscovite / Phlogopite with Iridescence)
Phyllosilicate group (KAl2(AlSi3O10)(F,OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; perfect basal cleavage yielding thin, flexible, transparent to translucent sheets; pearly to vitreous luster with iridescent surface reflections.
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Physical properties
Hardness 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; perfect basal cleavage yielding thin, flexible, transparent to translucent sheets; pearly to vitreous luster with iridescent surface reflections.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like pegmatites or in regional metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses under moderate to high temperatures.
Uses & applications
Used historically as furnace window glass ('isinglass'), as an electrical and thermal insulator, and currently in cosmetics, paints, and plastics for shimmer.
Geological facts
Mica crystals can grow into sheets several meters wide; its name derives from the Latin 'micare,' meaning 'to glitter.'
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by peeling thin, flexible, reflective flakes with a fingernail; abundant worldwide in crystalline basement rocks.
