metamorphic

Raw mica-bearing metamorphic rock, likely schist

Mica schist; chiefly muscovite/biotite mica with quartz and feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 2–3 for mica and 6–7 for quartz; silvery-gray, flaky, pearly to vitreous luster, with strongly foliated layers and perfect mica cleavage. The specimen appears to include a reflective metallic-looking mica flake or foil-like crystal, but lighting makes exact identification uncertain.

Identified September 13, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when shale or other clay-rich sediment is subjected to elevated heat and pressure during regional metamorphism, commonly during mountain building. Its precise geological age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as decorative stone, aggregate, and occasionally building stone; mica is used industrially in electrical insulation, joint compounds, paints, and cosmetics. Attractive specimens are collected for their sparkling foliation.

Geological facts

Large mica sheets can split into thin, flexible transparent layers, while quartz-rich portions remain hard and granular. Schistosity—the aligned flaky minerals visible here—is its key diagnostic texture.

Field identification & locations

Look for glittering, aligned flakes that separate into sheets, often with visible quartz bands or lenses; common sources include metamorphic belts in the Appalachian Mountains, New England, Scandinavia, India, and Brazil. Typical hand specimens are worth about $5–$30, with unusually large or aesthetic specimens reaching $50–$150.