Igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar Rock)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled grey, white, pink, and black; Lustre: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: Mottled grey, white, pink, and black

Identified March 18, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. It is a plutonic rock found in continental crust across all geological ages, often forming large batholiths.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and as dimension stone for monuments and building facades. Also used as crushed stone for road base.

Geological facts

Granite is the most common igneous rock found on Earth's continents. The iconic peaks of Yosemite National Park, such as Half Dome and El Capitan, are composed of massive granite monoliths.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is ubiquitous in mountainous regions and shield areas like the Canadian Shield.

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