How do I identify Schist?

Schist can be identified by its hardness of 4 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Gray color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Schist?

Schist typically appears in Gray, black, brown, green, etc.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

Schist has a hardness of 4 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Schist

A variety of Metamorphic

Uncommon

What is Schist?

Schists are metamorphic rocks, usually formed from shale or mudstone, that have an abundance of large, platy grains – though what exactly those grains are made from varies greatly across specimens. Schist has few industrial uses, though this rock can host large, gem-quality crystals, including garnets, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies.

Etymology & Origins

Before the mid-18th century, the terms slate, shale and schist were not sharply differentiated by those involved with mining.

Uses & Applications

Schist is a very durable rock, and because of that it has been used for centuries in construction. Buildings constructed from this rock can last for hundreds of years, and in addition to walls and flooring, it can be used in roofing and pillars. Schist is a common addition to many paints and is also used in jewelry.

Discover Values

Rarity

3.8out of 5.0

76%

Popularity

3.5out of 5.0

70%

Beauty

4.0out of 5.0

80%

Cultural Value

4.2out of 5.0

84%

Collection Value

4.0out of 5.0

80%

Schist Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Schist using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Schist Localities Map

See where Schist is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Formation of Schist

During metamorphism, rocks which were originally sedimentary, igneous or metamorphic are converted into schists and gneisses. If the composition of the rocks was originally similar, they may be very difficult to distinguish from one another if the metamorphism has been great. A quartz-porphyry, for example, and a fine grained feldspathic sandstone, may both be converted into a grey or pink mica-schist. Usually, however, it is possible to distinguish between sedimentary and igneous schists and gneisses. If, for example, the whole district occupied by these rocks has traces of bedding, clastic structure, or unconformability, then it may be a sign that the original rock was sedimentary.