sedimentary
Granitic Sand
Detrital sediment (predominantly Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica); Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Granular/Fragmental; Cleavage: Perfect in mica flakes.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica)
- Color
- Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey)
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (quartz/feldspar), 2-3 (mica); Color: Salt and pepper (pink, white, black, grey); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Granular/Fragmental; Cleavage: Perfect in mica flakes.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the mechanical and chemical weathering of granitic igneous rock. As the parent granite breaks down over thousands of years, harder minerals like quartz and feldspar remain as sand grains.
Uses & applications
Used in construction for concrete and mortar, as a soil amendment in gardening (decomposed granite), and for traction on icy roads.
Geological facts
This sand is essentially 'granite in transition.' The presence of shiny flakes indicates muscovite or biotite mica, which are often mistaken for gold by novice prospectors (Fool's Gold).
Field identification & locations
Identify by the presence of glassy quartz, opaque pink/white feldspar, and shiny flat mica flakes. Commonly found in dry riverbeds or at the base of eroding mountain ranges.
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