igneous
Granite
Granite (phaneritic intrusive felsic igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (white/grey/black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and biotite/amphibole); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white/grey/black)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Salt and pepper (white/grey/black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and biotite/amphibole); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (plutonic). Found in continental crust, often appearing in mountain roots or batholiths after erosion.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, countertops, monuments, paving stones, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used for monuments like Mount Rushmore and the Great Pyramid of Giza (casing).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where individual minerals like glassy quartz and opaque feldspar are clearly visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in riverbeds or mountain ranges.
