mineral

Muscovite Mica

KAl2(AlSi3O10)(F,OH)2

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Silver, white, brownish, or yellowish; Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or silky; Crystal structure: Monoclinic, forms in tabular or flaky crystals with perfect basal cleavage yielding thin, flexible sheets; Specific gravity: 2.77-2.88

Hardness: 2-2
Color: Silver, white, brownish, or yellowish
Luster: Vitreous, pearly, or silky

Identified July 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks like granites and pegmatites, as well as in metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses through regional metamorphism of argillaceous sediments.

Uses & applications

Used in electrical insulators, paints, plastics, cosmetics for pearlescent sheen, drywall joint compounds, and as a thermal and electrical insulator.

Geological facts

Muscovite is the most common mineral of the mica family. Its name comes from 'Muscovy-glass', as it was historically used in medieval Russia as a cheaper alternative to glass in windows.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its distinct sheet-like structure, perfect cleavage into transparent flexible flakes, and pearly luster. Found worldwide in pegmatite veins and metamorphic terranes.