igneous

Granite

Granite (composed of Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: salt-and-pepper appearance with pink/orange feldspar, white quartz, and black mica; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Fragmentary; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified February 27, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). It is a major component of continental crust, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common intrusive igneous rock in Earth's continental crust. Its name comes from the Latin word 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained texture.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its visible interlocking crystals and 'salt and pepper' look. Common in mountainous regions and shield areas like the Appalachian Mountains or the Canadian Shield.

Other igneous specimens

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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

Blue Apatite

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

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral