Muscovite Mica Details

Muscovite Properties and Uses

Discovery

Muscovite was first described in 1850 for an occurrence in Moscow, Russia.

Chemical formula: KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2

Physical Properties

• Color: Silver, beige, brown
• Luster: Vitreous to pearly
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Hardness: 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale
• Streak: White
• Fracture: Micaceous
• Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage

Optical Properties

• Refractive Index: 1.552-1.598
• Birefringence: 0.046-0.050
• Pleochroism: Strong, colorless to pale green and brown
• Dispersion: Weak
• Optical Character: Biaxial positive
• Optical Sign: Positive

Occurrence by Country

• Russia
• USA
• Brazil
• India
• Pakistan

Healing Properties

• Stimulates the immune system
• Helps with insomnia and stress
• Improves circulation and metabolism
• Assists in detoxification
• Boosts self-confidence and emotional stability

Uses

• As a source of mica, which is used in the production of insulators, capacitors, and electronic equipment
• In the production of paint and rubber
• As a gemstone
• As a decorative stone in construction
• In alternative medicine and crystal healing