igneous
Red Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Reddish-pink to deep red due to potassium feldspar. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica). Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Reddish-pink to deep red due to potassium feldspar
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Reddish-pink to deep red due to potassium feldspar. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica). Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of molten magma deep within the Earth's crust (plutonic). They are often Proterozoic or Paleozoic in age, found in continental shields.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and memorial monuments. Small fragments are often used as decorative gravel or road base.
Geological facts
The red color is caused by the presence of abundant orthoclase (potassium feldspar). Granite makes up a large part of the Earth's continental crust and is resistant to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its speckled 'salt and pepper' appearance with prominent pink/red minerals and hard, interlocking crystals that cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Found in mountainous or shield regions globaly.
