igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic Igneous Rock)

Hardness: 6–7 Mohs; Color: Pink, light gray, or white; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Variable based on mineral grains; Specific gravity: 2.63–2.75

Hardness: 6–7 Mohs
Color: Pink, light gray, or white
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified May 22, 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 predominantly Pre-Cambrian to Cretaceous in age and forms the bulk of the continental crust.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, stair treads, and monument building because of its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common igneous rock on Earth's surface. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith. It is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its interlocking, visible grains of different colors (usually pinkish feldspar and clear/gray quartz). Found worldwide in mountain ranges and eroded shields.

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