metamorphic

Weathered, foliated metamorphic rock (likely schist or phyllite)

Probably mica-rich schist or phyllite; exact identification requires close examination of its grains and foliation

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-gray, dull to slightly silky surface with visible layered foliation and pale mineral flecks. Likely contains quartz and mica; hardness and cleavage cannot be reliably determined from the image.

Identified October 14, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Weathered, foliated metamorphic rock (likely schist or phyllite)
Scientific name: Probably mica-rich schist or phyllite; exact identification requires close examination of its grains and foliation
Category: metamorphic
Identified: October 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$15 for a common hand specimen; more if locality or appearance is notable.

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

Brown-gray, dull to slightly silky surface with visible layered foliation and pale mineral flecks. Likely contains quartz and mica; hardness and cleavage cannot be reliably determined from the image.

Formation & geological history

Formed when clay-rich sedimentary rock was buried and altered by heat and pressure, producing aligned minerals and foliation. Its age and specific metamorphic conditions are unknown.

Uses & applications

Similar rocks are used as dimension stone, landscaping stone, and decorative aggregate; attractive specimens may be collected, though this piece appears unpolished.

Geological facts

Schist typically has visible, sparkly mica flakes, while finer-grained phyllite often shows a satiny sheen and splits along wavy foliation.

Field identification & locations

Look for planar or wavy layers and aligned mica; a fresh surface and hand lens can help distinguish schist from phyllite. Such rocks occur in metamorphic belts worldwide.