igneous

Granite

Granite (consisting mainly of Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: typically mottled pink, gray, or white; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: phaneritic (granular); Cleavage: poor/irregular; Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: typically mottled pink, gray, or white
Luster: vitreous to dull

Identified May 31, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granite dates from the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras, though it forms continuously in continental crust environments.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and aggregate.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used in ancient structures like the Egyptian Pyramids and Roman temples.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its interlocking granular texture where individual mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. Look for a combination of glassy quartz and opaque white/pink feldspar. Commonly found in mountainous regions or exposed batholiths.

Other igneous specimens

See all

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

Dalmatian Jasper

Aplite with Arfvedsonite inclusions

igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral