metamorphic

Quartz–feldspar mica-bearing metamorphic rock, likely gneiss or schist

Micaceous quartzofeldspathic gneiss/schist; chiefly quartz (SiO₂), feldspar, and biotite/muscovite mica

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Gray, cream, and tan with visible glittering mica and granular quartz; vitreous quartz luster and platy mica luster. Quartz hardness is 7, feldspar 6–6.5, and mica 2–3; foliation appears weak to moderate, with no obvious cleavage in the whole specimen.

Identified September 17, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz–feldspar mica-bearing metamorphic rock, likely gneiss or schist
Scientific name: Micaceous quartzofeldspathic gneiss/schist; chiefly quartz (SiO₂), feldspar, and biotite/muscovite mica
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 17, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a common hand specimen; $25–$75 if unusually fresh, colorful, or well-foliated.

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 quartz-rich sediment or igneous protolith was buried, heated, and compressed, recrystallizing into interlocking minerals and mica foliation. Precise age cannot be determined from the image; such rocks range from Precambrian to younger mountain belts.

Uses & applications

Used locally as dimension stone, aggregate, landscaping rock, and decorative specimen material; attractive foliated pieces may be collected but are rarely gemstone-grade.

Geological facts

The sparkling flakes are likely mica, while pale translucent grains are quartz and cream grains are feldspar. Strong mineral banding would favor gneiss; a pronounced planar, easily splitting fabric would favor schist.

Field identification & locations

Common in continental mountain belts and metamorphic terrains worldwide, including India, Africa, North America, and Europe. Field identification relies on visible mica foliation, interlocking grains, and hardness contrast; acid reaction is usually absent.