igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Alkali-feldspar granite)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, orange, grey, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase), and Biotite/Hornblende.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, salmon, orange, grey, and black
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, orange, grey, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase), and Biotite/Hornblende.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of molten magma deep beneath the Earth's crust (plutonic). Most granites are Precambrian to Paleozoic in age, occurring in large masses known as batholiths.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, architectural facades, countertops, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
The pink color is specifically due to the high concentration of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Granite makes up much of the Earth's continental crust and is one of the hardest natural stones.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance with distinct interlocking crystals. Look for the characteristic pink orthoclase crystals alongside clear/grey quartz. Found in mountainous regions and areas with exposed continental shields like the Canadian Shield.
