Foliated Metamorphic Rocks

1) Slate: Shows mineral alignment. Fine grained. Composed mostly of mica. Results from regional metamorphism of the sedimentary rock shale.

Slate blackboard
(with sedimentary chalk)

Slate

Slate roof

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2) Phyllite: Very similar to slate but in addition to mica, phyllite may contain quartz, feldspar, amphibole, and garnet.

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3) Schist: Visible mica crystals often giving the rock a shiny appearance. In addition to quartz, feldspar, amphibole, and garnet, schist may also contain pyroxene.

Manhatten schist

Schist pavers

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4) Gneiss: Medium to coarse grain size. Same minerals as found in schist but shows banding.

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