igneous
Granite
Intrusive igneous rock (Acidic)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white, gray, black)
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white, gray, black); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). Found in continental crust plates across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large part of the continental crust. It is one of the hardest natural stones and Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica are large enough to see with the naked eye.
