igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic Igneous Rock)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: White, gray, and black mottled appearance. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals). Cleavage: Varies by mineral (perfect in mica, poor in quartz). Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: White, gray, and black mottled appearance
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified May 31, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Geological age varies widely from Precambrian to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, curbing, and monuments. Also popular as a collector's specimen for demonstrating igneous textures.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones available.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its coarse 'salt and pepper' appearance and hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel knife). Commonly found in mountain ranges and continental shields globally.

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