igneous
Pink Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, or reddish-orange with white, gray, and black specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, or reddish-orange with white, gray, and black specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of molten magma deep within the Earth's crust (plutonic). The pink color is primarily caused by an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Found in continental crust plates globally.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the oldest and most abundant rocks on Earth's surface. The pink variety is particularly famous for being used in the construction of the Great Pyramids' internal chambers and various historical monuments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its visible interlocking crystals of pink feldspar, clear/white quartz, and dark biotite or hornblende. Commonly found in mountain ranges and batholiths worldwide. It will not scratch with a copper penny or steel knife easily.
