igneous

Granite

Phaneritic plutonic igneous rock (mostly SiO2 and Al2O3)

Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs), Color: white/gray/pink/black, Luster: vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: phaneritic (large visible interlocked crystals), Cleavage: absent in the rock (though constituent feldspar has it), Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75

Identified June 4, 2026More igneous →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). Found in continental crust, often in mountain ranges or ancient cratons across all geological eras.

Uses & applications

Construction, infrastructure, countertops, flooring, monuments, and decorative gravel. High commercial value due to durability.

Geological facts

Granite is one of the hardest and most common substances in the world. Many of the world's most famous mountain peaks, like El Capitan in Yosemite, are composed of massive granite monoliths.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Commonly found in gravel pits, mountain outcrops, and as landscaping stones.

Other igneous specimens

See all

Granite

Igneous

Granite

Igneous

Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dalmatian Jasper

Aplite with Arfvedsonite inclusions

igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

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