Mica
Mica is a metamorphic mineral. The many variations come from the diverse ways it formed. Mica formations are associated with volcanoes and hydrothermal vents.
The most easily recognizable characteristic of mica are the thin crystal layers. With many micas the sheets peel off in thin transparent layers due to mica’s perfect cleavage.
Mica also has a brilliant shininess that glitters and sparkles. In fact the name mica is believed to have come from the Latin word micare which means “to shine.” Mica is responsible for the flashes of light in composite rocks such as granite, gneiss, and slate.
Mineral Properties of Mica
Chemical formula: Any of a group of hydrous potassium, aluminum silicate minerals.
Color(s): white,yellowish,green, gray
Streak: colorless
Luster: vitreous to pearly
Transparency: transparent, translucent, opaque
Crystal system: monoclinic
Specific Gravity: 2.8
Hardness (Mohs): 2.5 - 3
Cleavage: perfect
Fracture: uneven
Uses: As insulators in electronics
Location: mica is found in many rocks around the world. Noteable deposits are found in india, South Dakota,Russia, and Brazil.
