metamorphic
Mica Schist
Mica Schist (Quartz-Mica Metamorphic Rock)
Hardness: 2.5-3 (mica) to 7 (quartz). Color: silvery-grey, light brown, pinkish-grey, shiny white. Luster: pearly to metallic/vitreous. Structure: foliated, medium to coarse-grained. Cleavage: prominent basal cleavage along mica flakes.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- silvery-grey, light brown, pinkish-grey, shiny white
- Luster
- pearly to metallic/vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3 (mica) to 7 (quartz). Color: silvery-grey, light brown, pinkish-grey, shiny white. Luster: pearly to metallic/vitreous. Structure: foliated, medium to coarse-grained. Cleavage: prominent basal cleavage along mica flakes.
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks such as shale or mudstone under high pressure and moderate-to-high temperatures during mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as decorative building stone, flagging, dimension stone, and crushed aggregate. Mica components are extracted for electrical insulators, cosmetics, and fillers.
Geological facts
Schist is characterized by having visible mica flakes oriented in parallel sheets, which gives the rock a glistening or sparkling glitter-like appearance when light hits it.
Field identification & locations
Identified field-side by its distinct glittery/shiny surface caused by abundant platy muscovite or biotite mica flakes that easily flake off with a fingernail or knife. Commonly found in metamorphic terranes worldwide, such as the Appalachian Mountains, Scottish Highlands, and the Alps.
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