igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grayish-white with dark flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Grayish-white with dark flecks
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified May 23, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Grayish-white with dark flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). They can be hundreds of millions of years old, primarily found in continental crust and mountain belts.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as a dimension stone.

Geological facts

Granite is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in South Dakota.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found in many mountainous terrains globally.

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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