metamorphic

Quartz with Mica Schist

Quartz-Mica Schist / Pegmatitic Quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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)

Identified July 24, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

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.