igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Igneous Rock (primarily Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper/grey appearance with visible crystals; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Dependent on mineral constituents; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper/grey appearance with visible crystals
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper/grey appearance with visible crystals; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Dependent on mineral constituents; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). This specimen likely dates from any Orogenic period where continental crust thickened.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and as a decorative stone in monuments.
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 granite monoliths.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its coarse crystalline texture where individual grains of quartz (glassy), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (shiny black flakes) are visible. Widely available globally.
