metamorphic
Schist
Metamorphic rock (Schist)
Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, green, silver, or brown with a sparkly appearance; Luster: Pearly to shiny due to mica content; Crystal structure: Foliated texture with visible platy minerals aligned in parallel bands; Cleavage: Good planar cleavage (schistosity); Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
- Hardness
- 3-4 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Gray, green, silver, or brown with a sparkly appearance
- Luster
- Pearly to shiny due to mica content
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, green, silver, or brown with a sparkly appearance; Luster: Pearly to shiny due to mica content; Crystal structure: Foliated texture with visible platy minerals aligned in parallel bands; Cleavage: Good planar cleavage (schistosity); Specific Gravity: 2.7-3.0
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism of mudstone, shale, or igneous rocks under high temperature and pressure conditions, typically over hundreds of millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, as a decorative stone, and sometimes in construction or aggregate, though its foliation makes it structurally weak for heavy load-bearing purposes.
Geological facts
Schist often contains prominent accessory minerals such as garnet, staurolite, or kyanite, making it a favorite for rockhounds searching for embedded crystals.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct foliated, sparkly appearance caused by the alignment of mica flakes. Found worldwide in ancient mountain belts and shield areas.
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