mineral
Muscovite mica
Muscovite, KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale silvery-gray, pearly to vitreous luster, with thin sheets and perfect basal cleavage; hardness 2–2.5 Mohs. The photo shows a flaky, sheet-like specimen consistent with mica.
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Physical properties
Pale silvery-gray, pearly to vitreous luster, with thin sheets and perfect basal cleavage; hardness 2–2.5 Mohs. The photo shows a flaky, sheet-like specimen consistent with mica.
Formation & geological history
Forms in granites, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks such as schist, through crystallization or metamorphic alteration; its age depends on the host rock and deposit.
Uses & applications
Used in electrical and thermal insulation, fillers, cosmetics, and decorative mineral collections.
Geological facts
Muscovite splits into remarkably thin, flexible sheets; the name refers to its historic use as window material in Russia.
Field identification & locations
Look for shiny, flexible flakes that peel into transparent or translucent sheets. Common worldwide in granites and mica-rich metamorphic rocks.
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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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous