metamorphic

Mica Schist (Greenschist / Chlorite Schist)

Schist (rich in Muscovite, Chlorite, and Quartz)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-4 on the Mohs scale; Color: Silvery-green to pale olive-green with pearly highlights; Luster: Pearly, satiny to sub-metallic; Texture: Medium to coarse-grained with strong schistose foliation; Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage in individual mica flakes.

Hardness: 2
Color: Silvery-green to pale olive-green with pearly highlights
Luster: Pearly, satiny to sub-metallic

Identified July 22, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Mica Schist (Greenschist / Chlorite Schist) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed via regional metamorphism of shale, mudstone, or mafic igneous rocks under intermediate temperatures and pressures. Commonly associated with mountain-building (orogenic) events.

Uses & applications

Used occasionally as decorative landscaping stone, dimensional flagstone, crushed aggregate, and as educational/collector mineral specimens.

Geological facts

The distinct silvery-green sheen comes from aligned platy mica (muscovite) and chlorite minerals. Schist is known for easily flaking along its layered planes of foliation.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its pronounced foliation, silvery-green metallic sheen, and flaky, layered surface. Widely found in metamorphic terranes like the Appalachian Mountains, Alps, and Scottish Highlands.