mineral
Muscovite Mica
KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness is 2 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to silvery-white or grey, with a vitreous to pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage yielding flexible elastic sheets.
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Physical properties
Hardness is 2 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to silvery-white or grey, with a vitreous to pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage yielding flexible elastic sheets.
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous environments like pegmatites, as well as metamorphic schists and gneisses through the crystallization of aluminous and potassium-rich fluids.
Uses & applications
Used in electrical insulators, paints, drywall joint compounds, cosmetics, and as a high-temperature window material.
Geological facts
Muscovite is the most common mineral of the mica family and was historically called 'muscovy glass' because it was used as a glass substitute in Russia.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct sheet-like structure and extreme cleavage that peels into thin, transparent, flexible flakes.
