igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-pink, with gray and black specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and mica; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-pink, with gray and black specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-pink, with gray and black specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Orthoclase feldspar, quartz, and mica; Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive). The pink color is specifically due to a high concentration of potassium-rich feldspar (orthoclase). These formations can occur over millions of years and are found in various geological ages, often in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Used widely in construction (countertops, tiles, monuments), as crushed stone for road bases, and sometimes as tumbled stones for landscaping or beginner rock collections.
Geological facts
Pink granite makes up some of the most famous landmarks, such as the Pikes Peak granite in Colorado or the pink granite of the Aswan quarries in ancient Egypt, used for obelisks and statues.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its phaneritic texture—you can see individual mineral grains with the naked eye. Look for the combination of pink cloudy minerals (feldspar) and clear, glass-like grains (quartz). It is commonly found in mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
