mineral
Mica
Mica group (often Muscovite or Biotite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 2-4 (Mohs), highly perfect basal cleavage forming thin flexible sheets, vitreous to pearly luster. Colors range from colorless, yellow, and silvery (muscovite) to dark green, brown, or black (biotite).
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Physical properties
Hardness 2-4 (Mohs), highly perfect basal cleavage forming thin flexible sheets, vitreous to pearly luster. Colors range from colorless, yellow, and silvery (muscovite) to dark green, brown, or black (biotite).
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Common in granites, pegmatites, and schists.
Uses & applications
Used in electronics as an insulator, in paints, cosmetics (for shimmer), and as windows in high-temperature stoves.
Geological facts
Mica gets its name from the Latin word 'micare', meaning to shine, flash, or glitter. Large sheets of mica were once used in Russia for windows, known as 'Muscovy glass'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive prominent cleavage, allowing it to be split into extremely thin, flexible flakes. Very common globally.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Calcite–fluorite mineral specimen with iron-oxide staining
Calcite (CaCO₃), likely fluorite (CaF₂), with possible quartz and iron/manganese oxides
mineral
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous