igneous
Granite Pebble
Felsic Plutonic Rock (primarily Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6–7 Mohs. Color: Pinkish-red to tan with visible crystalline grains. Luster: Dull/earthy (weathered surface) to vitreous (fresh break). Crystal structure: Phaneritic (medium-grained crystalline). Cleavage: None (grains fracture).
- Hardness
- 6–7 Mohs
- Color
- Pinkish-red to tan with visible crystalline grains
- Luster
- Dull/earthy (weathered surface) to vitreous (fresh break)
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6–7 Mohs. Color: Pinkish-red to tan with visible crystalline grains. Luster: Dull/earthy (weathered surface) to vitreous (fresh break). Crystal structure: Phaneritic (medium-grained crystalline). Cleavage: None (grains fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground. This specific specimen shows signs of mechanical weathering and rounding, likely due to transport by water or glacial activity.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as construction aggregate, decorative gravel, and landscaping material. In large blocks, it is used for countertops and monuments.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color in this specimen is due to the presence of Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' or multi-colored crystalline appearance and its extreme hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife). Commonly found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and mountainous areas where erosion has exposed the continental basement.
