Rock Identifier

igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals easily visible to the naked eye); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75 g/cm³.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified April 5, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pinkish-tan with grey and black inclusions; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained crystals easily visible to the naked eye); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75 g/cm³.

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites are associated with mountain-building events during the Precambrian and Paleozoic eras. It forms in batholiths and deep crustal plutons.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and curbing. It is also used for cemetery monuments, bridges, and as a decorative stone in architecture due to its durability.

Geological facts

Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds. Mt. Rushmore is carved out of a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz (grey/clear), feldspar (pink/white), and mica or amphibole (black). It is found globally in the hearts of mountain ranges.

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