What's That Rock?Schist
A metamorphic rock full of flat, shiny mineral flakes (usually mica) that give it a glittery, wavy look.
How to identify Schist
- Shimmering with mica flakes
- Splits into uneven, wavy layers
- May contain garnet, staurolite or kyanite crystals
Often confused with
Is Schist valuable?
Common.
What changes the price
- Common rock: low value as a specimen
- Pieces with garnet, kyanite or staurolite crystals can be inexpensive collector items
- Landscape stone is priced by the ton
Uses
- Building stone, source of garnet
Care
Flaky. Handle gently.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026