Similar to biotite, muscovite is a phyllosilicate mineral and the most common of the mica group minerals. The term muscovite is derived from the name „Muscovy-glass“, due to the mineral’s traditional use in Russia as a cheaper and temperature resistant alternative to glass in windows. The common rock-forming mineral may occur in phyllites, schists, gneises and granites, often in association with quartz, potassium feldspar, and biotite. Muscovite crystals are transparent and translucent, flaky and form thin, flexible and elastic sheets with a pearly to vitreous luster. Commonly muscovite is colorless and may show tints of pale grey, brown, green, yellow and light red. Muscovite is used as a special filler and extender. Due to its pearly luster and sparkle, it brightens pigments and adds glimmer to paints, glazes and cosmetics. Muscovite is found throughout the world, large sources being Bihar in India, New Mexico and Siberia. The muscovite from Kremer Pigmente comes from China.
