igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, white, gray, black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, white, gray, black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, white, gray, black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: None (individual minerals have cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a coarse-grained intrusive rock typically formed in continental crust over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as aggregate in road building. Also a popular specimen for educational geology kits.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore and the base of the Statue of Liberty are both made primarily of granite-related stone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' appearance of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found in large mountain ranges and shield areas globally. Collectors look for large crystals of feldspar or mica.
