igneous

Granite

Felsic Intrusive Igneous Rock

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, grey, black, and white (mottled); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pink, grey, black, and white (mottled)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 20, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This intrusive process allows large crystals to grow. Most granites date from the Precambrian to Cenozoic eras.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Also used as crushed stone (aggregate) for road building.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the continental crust. The iconic faces on Mount Rushmore are carved into a granite batholith. It is the signature rock of many mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevadas.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' look with visible intergrown crystals of different colors. It is found in massive plutons and continental shields worldwide. Collectors look for unique color variations or large crystal inclusions.

Other igneous specimens

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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