Mica, derived from the Latin word for "micaceous", refers to a group of sheet silicate minerals. In gemology, mica is appreciated for its unique properties and uses. It has been utilized in various cultures throughout history due to these properties, which include being soft and flexible while remaining strong and durable. Micas are also valued for their beautiful iridescence when cleaved into thin sheets. They exhibit a fascinating range of colors based on their composition, such as silver, gold, red, green, brown, or black. The mineral has applications in electrical engineering due to its high dielectric strength and low loss tangent. Additionally, mica is used in cosmetics, painting, and ceramics industries because of its lustrous appearance and resistance to chemical corrosion. In folk medicine, ground mica was historically used for its alleged healing properties.
The name Mica was quite popular among parents from the mid-20th century onwards, with a significant increase in usage starting around 1968 and peaking in 1970 with a total of 78 births. However, its popularity has been declining steadily since the late 1970s, with fewer than 50 births recorded annually after 1984. In recent years, the name Mica has become quite rare, with less than 20 births per year from 2016 onwards.