igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pinkish-red with black and white specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals); Cleavage: None (subconchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pinkish-red with black and white specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pinkish-red with black and white specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals); Cleavage: None (subconchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. This specimen's pink hue comes from an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). It can be found in continental crust formations spanning billions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for kitchen countertops, flooring, monuments, and as a structural building material. It is also crushed for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is the primary component of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture and pink/salmon color. It is found in large mountain ranges or shield areas like the Canadian Shield. For collectors, look for well-defined large crystals of feldspar or quartz.
