metamorphic
Weathered mica-rich schist
Mica schist, chiefly muscovite/biotite with quartz and feldspar
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically gray-brown to golden, with a glittery micaceous luster and strongly foliated, flaky texture; quartz and feldspar form harder granular patches. Hardness is about 2–3 for exposed mica and 6–7 for quartz, with pronounced planar cleavage/foliation.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Weathered mica-rich schist in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Typically gray-brown to golden, with a glittery micaceous luster and strongly foliated, flaky texture; quartz and feldspar form harder granular patches. Hardness is about 2–3 for exposed mica and 6–7 for quartz, with pronounced planar cleavage/foliation.
Formation & geological history
Formed when shale or other clay-rich sedimentary rock was subjected to regional heat and pressure, commonly during mountain building; its exact age cannot be determined from the image. Surface oxidation and weathering produce the brown-gold coloration.
Uses & applications
Used locally as decorative stone, wall stone, landscaping material, and aggregate, though its weakness along foliation limits structural applications; attractive specimens may be collected but are generally low value.
Geological facts
Mica schist can contain visible garnet, staurolite, kyanite, or sillimanite, which help indicate metamorphic grade. The image’s rough, layered surface and reflective flakes are characteristic of schistose fabric.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by abundant aligned mica flakes, glittery surfaces, and easy splitting into thin foliation-parallel slabs; common in metamorphic belts worldwide, including the Appalachians, Alps, and Himalayas. A hand lens and fresh broken surface help distinguish it from weathered granite.
More like this
