metamorphic
Schist
Mica Schist
Hardness: 3.5-4; Color: Silver, gray, tan, or brown with a sparkly appearance; Luster: Pearly to sub-metallic (vitreous); Crystal structure: Foliated (platy); Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage in individual mica grains; Specific gravity: 2.7-2.8
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Silver, gray, tan, or brown with a sparkly appearance
- Luster
- Pearly to sub-metallic (vitreous)
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4; Color: Silver, gray, tan, or brown with a sparkly appearance; Luster: Pearly to sub-metallic (vitreous); Crystal structure: Foliated (platy); Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage in individual mica grains; Specific gravity: 2.7-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphism of shale or mudstone under intermediate to high temperature and pressure conditions, typically during mountain-building events (orogenies).
Uses & applications
Used as decorative stone in landscaping, flagstone for walkways, and occasionally as a source of industrial mica or in the manufacturing of electrical components.
Geological facts
Schist is characterized by 'schistosity', which is the alignment of platy grains that allows the rock to be split into thin slabs. It often contains garnets as accessory minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct 'glittery' appearance due to high mica content and its tendency to flake or split into plates. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains like the Appalachian or Himalayan mountains.
More like this
