igneous
Granite
Felsic Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness (Mohs): 6-7; Color: White, gray, pink with black specks; Luster: Phaneritic (crystalline/vitreous); Crystal Structure: Coarse-grained granular; Cleavage: Varies by mineral (Basal in micas, perfect in feldspars); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Color
- White, gray, pink with black specks
- Luster
- Phaneritic (crystalline/vitreous)
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Physical properties
Hardness (Mohs): 6-7; Color: White, gray, pink with black specks; Luster: Phaneritic (crystalline/vitreous); Crystal Structure: Coarse-grained granular; Cleavage: Varies by mineral (Basal in micas, perfect in feldspars); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Found in continental crust, often appearing in mountain roots or as batholiths formed millions of years ago.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, monuments, floor tiles, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest natural stones and was used by ancient Egyptians to build the internal chambers of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica. Common in mountainous regions and glacial deposits.
