Rock Identifier
Granite River Pebble (Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)) — igneous
igneous

Granite River Pebble

Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, and grey with iron staining; Luster: Dull/Matte (due to weathering); Crystal Structure: Granular/Phaneritic; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7

Hardness
6-7 Mohs
Color
Tan, brown, and grey with iron staining
Luster
Dull/Matte (due to weathering)
Identified More igneous

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, and grey with iron staining; Luster: Dull/Matte (due to weathering); Crystal Structure: Granular/Phaneritic; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow cooling of magma deep underground, typically during the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras. These specific specimens have been rounded by water erosion in a fluvial (river) or glacial environment.

Uses & applications

Common landscape gravel, construction aggregate, and educational specimens for geology students.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common rock found in the Earth's continental crust. These rounded shapes are 'well-sorted' by water action, which eventually grinds them down into sand.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by the visible interlocking crystals of quartz and feldspar; the smooth, rounded 'potato' shape indicates transport by water. Found globally in riverbeds and glacial tills.