Chlorite Schist
What is Chlorite Schist?
Chlorite schist is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of chlorite minerals. It is characterized by its foliated texture, meaning the minerals are aligned in parallel layers or planes, giving the rock a distinct schistosity. The presence of chlorite imparts a green color to the rock, though other colors may be present depending on the impurities. Chlorite schist forms under relatively low-grade metamorphic conditions, often from the alteration of other rocks like shale, basalt, or volcanic ash. The rock's appearance can vary, with some specimens displaying a well-defined schistosity and others appearing more massive.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.57 to 1.67
- Birefringence
- Moderate to high
- Pleochroism
- Typically weak to moderate, with colors like pale green to dark green or blue-green.
- Optical Character
- Biaxial (-)
- Dispersion
- Moderate
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green, gray-green, dark green, sometimes with hints of brown or black.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 to 3
- Density
- 2.65 - 3.0 g/cm³
- Streak
- Greenish-gray to white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Mg,Fe,Al)6(Si,Al)4O10(OH)8
- Elements
- Silicon, Oxygen, Hydrogen, Magnesium, Iron, Aluminum
Also Known As

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