metamorphic

Mica-rich schist (likely biotite schist)

Biotite schist; quartz- and feldspar-bearing, with abundant mica

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown, coarse, shiny flakes and foliated texture suggest mica-rich schist. Typical Mohs hardness is about 2.5–3 for mica and 6–7 for quartz; mica has perfect basal cleavage, while quartz is glassy and lacks cleavage. Exact composition cannot be confirmed visually.

Identified October 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when shale or other clay-rich sedimentary rock is metamorphosed under heat and directed pressure, aligning mica into foliation. Its age depends on the locality and cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Schist is used as decorative building stone, landscaping material, and in mineral collections; mica has industrial uses as an electrical and heat-resistant material.

Geological facts

The bright flecks are consistent with reflective mica, commonly biotite; small light-colored grains may be quartz or feldspar.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible platy mica grains and a tendency to split along wavy, aligned layers. Mica schists occur in metamorphic belts worldwide; a locality or testing is needed for confident identification.