metamorphic

Pyrite-bearing schist (likely gold-colored mica, not native gold)

Muscovite–quartz schist with pyrite; muscovite KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂, pyrite FeS₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically silvery to brassy-gold, strongly foliated, with glittering platy mica and possible metallic pyrite. Muscovite hardness 2–2.5 and elastic cleavage; pyrite hardness 6–6.5, cubic crystals, metallic luster, and dark streak.

Identified September 16, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Pyrite-bearing schist (likely gold-colored mica, not native gold)
Scientific name: Muscovite–quartz schist with pyrite; muscovite KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂, pyrite FeS₂
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand specimen; $50–$200+ if unusually attractive, confirmed gold-bearing, or from a notable locality.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rock underwent regional metamorphism, producing aligned mica and quartz; pyrite may crystallize during metamorphism or earlier hydrothermal alteration. Age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Commonly a collector specimen; schist has limited crushed-stone use, while muscovite is used industrially for insulation and fillers and pyrite is collected as “fool’s gold.”

Geological facts

The bright flaky layers are more consistent with muscovite mica than gold, though gold can occur in quartz–pyrite rocks. Gold is malleable and leaves a yellow streak; pyrite is brittle and leaves a greenish-black streak.

Field identification & locations

Look for foliation, platy flakes, quartz, and possible cubic pyrite faces; gold testing requires streak, malleability, density, or assay. Common in metamorphic belts and hydrothermal mineral districts worldwide.