Igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Felsic Intrusive Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pinkish-red, grey, and black mottled; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Cleavage: Perfect on feldspar grains; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs
Color: Pinkish-red, grey, and black mottled
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified April 8, 2026More igneous →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic). This process allows large crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica to grow. It is common in continental crust and often dates back hundreds of millions to billions of years.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as aggregate for roads.

Geological facts

Granite makes up the core of most continental mountain ranges. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used in architecture since Ancient Egypt. The pink/red color comes from potassium feldspar (orthoclase).

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for a 'salt and pepper' or multicomponent interlocking crystal texture. It will not scratch easily with a steel knife. It is common in batholiths and mountain cores across the globe, such as the Sierra Nevada or the Scottish Highlands.

Other igneous specimens

See all

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous