Granite

Physical Properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled salt-and-pepper appearance with pink, white, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica.

Formation & Geological History

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is an intrusive rock typically found in continental crust and mountain ranges, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.

Uses & Applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as a decorative stone in architecture due to its durability.

Geological Facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the continental crust. Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is one of the world's most famous granite monoliths.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its interlocking coarse grains of translucent quartz, opaque white or pink feldspar, and dark specks of biotite or hornblende. It is found in abundance in batholiths and mountain cores worldwide.

Identified on: 5/1/2026

Mode: Standard