metamorphic

Red-brown mica schist (tentative)

Muscovite- or biotite-bearing schist; composition likely quartz + feldspar + mica, with iron-oxide staining

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Foliated, flaky texture with reddish-brown color and silvery reflective mica; mica has Mohs hardness 2–3, while quartz/feldspar are about 6–7. Uneven cleavage follows the schistosity; exact identification is limited by the small, blurred image.

Identified September 15, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Red-brown mica schist (tentative)
Scientific name: Muscovite- or biotite-bearing schist; composition likely quartz + feldspar + mica, with iron-oxide staining
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$10 for a small common fragment; approximately $10–$30 if unusually attractive, labeled, or locality-specific.

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 shale or another mica-rich sedimentary rock underwent regional metamorphism, typically during mountain building; age depends on locality and cannot be determined from the specimen alone.

Uses & applications

Used locally as decorative stone, landscaping material, and occasionally as dimension stone; attractive mica-rich pieces are mainly collected rather than used in jewelry.

Geological facts

The reddish color commonly comes from hematite or iron-oxide weathering. Strong foliation and visible glittering flakes distinguish schist from massive granite or sandstone.

Field identification & locations

Look for splitting into thin layers, abundant mica sparkle, and a streak that is generally pale rather than strongly red; a hand lens and hardness test can confirm quartz and mica. Common worldwide in metamorphic belts, including the Appalachians, Alps, and Himalaya.