mineral
Muscovite
KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 2 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to grey, brown, or light green, with a vitreous to pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage yielding flexible sheets.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 2 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from colorless to grey, brown, or light green, with a vitreous to pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage yielding flexible sheets.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like granitic pegmatites, as well as in metamorphic rocks like schists and gneisses through regional metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in electrical insulation, paints, plastics, cosmetics for pearlescent sheen, and as a raw mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Muscovite is the most common member of the mica family and was historically used as a substitute for window glass in Russia, known as muscovy glass.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct sheet-like cleavage and flexibility. Common globally in pegmatite veins and metamorphic terranes.
