metamorphic
Schist
Schist (containing Quartz, Mica, and Amphibole)
Hardness: 3.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, silvery-black to dark brown; Luster: Sub-metallic to vitreous (shiny due to mica flakes); Structure: Foliated with prominent schistosity; Cleavage: Good along foliation planes
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Gray, silvery-black to dark brown
- Luster
- Sub-metallic to vitreous (shiny due to mica flakes)
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Schist in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, silvery-black to dark brown; Luster: Sub-metallic to vitreous (shiny due to mica flakes); Structure: Foliated with prominent schistosity; Cleavage: Good along foliation planes
Formation & geological history
Formed through medium-grade regional metamorphism of shale, mudstone, or basalt subjected to high temperatures and pressures during mountain-building events. Geological age varies from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on location.
Uses & applications
Used historically as decorative stone, flagging, dimension stone, and occasionally in landscaping. Mica-rich variants are harvested for industrial mineral extraction.
Geological facts
Schist is characterized by coarse-grained mineral grains aligned in parallel layers, causing it to split easily into thin flakes or slabs. The term comes from the Greek word 'schizein', meaning 'to split'.
Field identification & locations
Field identification involves looking for visible platy minerals like muscovite or biotite that produce a distinct sparkly sheen. Found worldwide in metamorphic terranes such as the Appalachian Mountains, the Alps, and the Scottish Highlands.
More like this
