igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, red, white, gray; Luster: Dull (weathered) to Vitreous (internal); Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: None (it fractures); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs
Color: Pink, red, white, gray
Luster: Dull (weathered) to Vitreous (internal)

Identified May 29, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow subterranean cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides. Commonly formed in continental crust during mountain-building events (orogenies) throughout Earth's history.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, flooring, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.

Geological facts

Granite is one of the hardest and most durable rocks on Earth, making it a primary component of the continental crust. The color in this specimen is largely due to potassium-rich feldspar (Orthoclase).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its interlocking crystalline texture and lack of layering. It is found globally in mountainous and continental shield areas. For collectors, look for well-defined large crystals or unusual inclusions.

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