igneous

Granite (Pink Orthoclase variety)

Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock (Quartz, Orthoclase, Plagioclase, and Mica)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs); Color: Pink to salmon-red (orthoclase feldspar), white/grey (quartz), and black (biotite/hornblende); Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible coarse grains); Cleavage: Perfect in two directions for feldspars.

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs)
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified April 11, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep within the Earth's crust (plutonic). This specific rounded specimen has been smoothed by water erosion (alluvial) or glacial transport.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, and monuments. Coarser varieties are used as decorative garden stones or crushed for road aggregate.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a significant portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color specifically indicates a high concentration of potassium feldspar (orthoclase).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' speckled appearance and the distinct pink salmon hue. It is found globally in mountainous regions or glacial till. Collectors can find these easily in riverbeds and on beaches.

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Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

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Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

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Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

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Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

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Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

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