igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Plutonic Felsic Rock (primarily Quartz (SiO2), Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase Feldspar)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black mottled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (large, visible interlocking crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pink, white, gray, and black mottled
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified March 5, 2026More igneous →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black mottled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (large, visible interlocking crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). This specimen specifically shows a 'pink' granite variety due to high potassium feldspar content. Granite formation occurs across all geological eras, notably during orogenic (mountain-building) events.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and railway ballast.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. El Capitan in Yosemite National Park is one of the world's most famous granitic monoliths. It is one of the hardest and most durable common stones available.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals that are not aligned (unlike gneiss). Found globally in continental mountain ranges and shield areas like the Canadian Shield or the Scottish Highlands.

Other igneous specimens

See all

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral