metamorphic

Micaceous schist

Muscovite–quartz schist, locally containing biotite and feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically pale gray to silvery, with a sparkly micaceous luster and strongly foliated, flaky texture; quartz and feldspar are about Mohs 6–7, while muscovite is about 2–2.5. It has platy crystal alignment, imperfect cleavage along foliation, and moderate density around 2.7–2.8.

Identified September 17, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when shale or another clay-rich sediment was buried and subjected to elevated temperature and directed pressure, commonly during mountain building. Its exact age cannot be determined from the image; schists occur from Precambrian to younger orogenic belts.

Uses & applications

Used locally as decorative stone, landscaping material, fill, and occasionally roofing or wall stone; attractive mica-rich pieces are collected but are rarely high-value.

Geological facts

The glitter comes from reflective mica flakes, and the layered fabric records deformation during metamorphism. It may weather into thin, flaky fragments and can contain visible garnet, staurolite, or pyrite.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by abundant aligned mica, visible foliation, and easy splitting into rough sheets; distinguish it from granite by its planar fabric and from phyllite by its coarser grains. Common in regional metamorphic belts worldwide, including the Appalachians, Alps, and Himalaya.