metamorphic

Pelitic schist fragment, possibly garnet-mica schist

Muscovite–biotite schist with quartz; possible almandine garnet

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray, platy and sparkly with pale mica-rich layers and granular quartz. Likely Mohs 2–3 for mica, 6–7 for quartz, and possibly 7–7.5 for garnet; micaceous schist has pronounced foliation and silky to vitreous luster.

Identified September 14, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Pelitic schist fragment, possibly garnet-mica schist in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rock was regionally metamorphosed under elevated pressure and temperature, producing aligned mica. The small rounded reddish-brown grain may be garnet. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a teaching or collector specimen; schist may be used locally as decorative stone or, when durable, landscaping material, but strong foliation limits construction use.

Geological facts

The visible glitter is probably reflected light from mica cleavage surfaces rather than metallic ore. A magnet, streak, hardness, and density test would help distinguish garnet-bearing schist from weathered mica-rich ore.

Field identification & locations

This is plausible near 33.6°N, 73.0°E, where the Himalaya–Karakoram-related metamorphic belts and nearby Himalayan rocks occur. Look for planar foliation, flakes that peel, and contrasting quartz-rich grains; avoid calling it ore without testing.