igneous

Granite

Granite (a phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: typically white, pink, or gray with darker flecks; Luster: vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: granular/phaneritic; Cleavage: none (irregular fracture); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale
Color: typically white, pink, or gray with darker flecks
Luster: vitreous to dull

Identified February 16, 2026More igneous →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (plutonic). It can form over millions of years and is found in the continental crust, often appearing in mountain roots or continental shields.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and monuments. It is also a source of crushed stone for road base and concrete aggregate.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Famous landmarks made of granite include Mount Rushmore and the base of the Statue of Liberty. It is exceptionally durable and resistant to weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found in massive outcrops in places like the Sierra Nevada mountains or the Appalachians. Collectors look for unique color variations or large inclusions.

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

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Blue Apatite

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

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral