mineral
Muscovite Mica
Muscovite (KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 2-2.5, colorless to silver-gray, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic crystal system with perfect basal cleavage.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 2-2.5, colorless to silver-gray, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic crystal system with perfect basal cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed in granitic pegmatites, metamorphic schists, and gneisses through hydrothermal activity and regional metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in electrical insulators, paints, plastics, cosmetics for pearlescent shimmer, and drywall joint compounds.
Geological facts
Muscovite is the most common mineral in the mica family and was historically used as window glass in Russia.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct flexible, elastic sheets and mirror-like cleavage flakes found globally in pegmatite veins.
