mineral
Muscovite Mica
KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Silver, white, grey, or yellowish, Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or metallic, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
- Hardness
- 2-2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Silver, white, grey, or yellowish, Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or metallic, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like granites and pegmatites, as well as metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses, through crystallization from cooling magma or high-pressure metamorphic processes.
Uses & applications
Used in electrical insulation, paints, plastics, cosmetics, and as a filler or extender in various industrial applications.
Geological facts
Muscovite is known for its ability to split into extremely thin, flexible, and transparent sheets, which historically earned it the name 'Muscovy glass' due to its use in medieval Russia as a glass substitute.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct micaceous habit of peeling into flexible, elastic sheets with a pearly or metallic luster. Commonly found worldwide in pegmatite veins and metamorphic terranes.
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