metamorphic
Quartz with Mica Schist
Quartz-Mica Schist / Pegmatitic Quartz
Hardness: 7 for quartz, 2.5-3 for mica. Color: milky white quartz with dark black/grey mica flakes and light yellowish-white feldspar/mica mixture. Luster: vitreous (quartz) to pearly/metallic (mica). Cleavage: none in quartz, perfect basal cleavage in mica.
- Hardness
- 7 for quartz, 2
- Luster
- vitreous (quartz) to pearly/metallic (mica)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 for quartz, 2.5-3 for mica. Color: milky white quartz with dark black/grey mica flakes and light yellowish-white feldspar/mica mixture. Luster: vitreous (quartz) to pearly/metallic (mica). Cleavage: none in quartz, perfect basal cleavage in mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed through high-grade regional metamorphism or pegmatite intrusive action where quartz vein material contact-metamorphoses with surrounding mica-rich host rocks.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative garden stones, rock collection specimens, or historical source of quartz/mica.
Geological facts
Mica forms in thin, flexible sheets due to its atomic structure, giving metamorphic rocks like schist their distinct shimmering or glittering appearance when catching light.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the strong contrast between translucent-to-milky white quartz and flaky, shiny dark mica (biotite/muscovite). Commonly found in metamorphic terranes and stream beds nearby.
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