igneous
Granite
Granite (composed of Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, pink, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: None (though feldspars show cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Mottled white, pink, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, pink, and black; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: None (though feldspars show cleavage); Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites date back to the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large part of the continental crust. The Yosemite Valley in California is world-famous for its massive granite monoliths like El Capitan.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its 'salt and pepper' appearance with visible interlocking crystals of different colors. It is found in mountain ranges and glacial deposits worldwide. Collectors often find these as water-worn pebbles in rivers or beaches.
