igneous

Granite

Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Gray, salt-and-pepper, tan; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Gray, salt-and-pepper, tan
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified April 7, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Gray, salt-and-pepper, tan; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock that cools over millions of years, allowing for large mineral growth. Commonly found in the continental crust.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments/gravestones due to its durability and resistance to weathering.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents. It is so hard that it can only be cut with diamond-edged tools. The famous Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is a massive granite monolith.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found in mountain ranges and eroded shield areas.

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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