metamorphic

Mica-rich schist (possibly phyllite)

Mica schist, chiefly muscovite and/or biotite with quartz; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Gray-silvery, shiny, strongly foliated specimen with flaky mica and uneven cleavage. Mica hardness is about 2–3 Mohs; quartz, if present, is 7; specific gravity and crystal structure vary by mineral mix.

Identified October 5, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rocks underwent regional metamorphism, aligning mica into foliation. Its age cannot be determined from the photograph and depends on its source geology.

Uses & applications

Mica schist is used decoratively in landscaping and occasionally as facing stone; mica itself has electrical and thermal-insulation uses.

Geological facts

Its glimmer comes from light reflecting off abundant platy mica grains; schistosity is the characteristic metamorphic texture.

Field identification & locations

Look for glittering flakes and a layered fabric that splits along mica-rich planes; common in metamorphic mountain belts worldwide. A hand lens and hardness/cleavage tests can distinguish it from similar rocks.