igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (High K-Feldspar variety)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to orange with grey/white flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Perfect in feldspar grains; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pink to orange with grey/white flecks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to orange with grey/white flecks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Perfect in feldspar grains; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. High potassium feldspar content (orthoclase) gives it the distinct pink hue. Often associated with continental crust and mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction (countertops, tiles), as dimension stone for monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and railway ballast.
Geological facts
Granite is one of the most common rocks in the Earth's continental crust. Historically, it was used by ancient Egyptians for pyramids and temples due to its durability.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking visible grains of pinkish feldspar, clear-to-grey quartz, and dark biotite or hornblende. Commonly found in riverbeds or mountainous outcrops in regions like the Appalachians, Scotland, or Scandinavia.
