igneous

Granite

Phaneritic plutonic rock (Quartz, Feldspar, Mica)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, cream, pink, with black/grey specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals); Specific gravity: ~2.65-2.75.

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs
Color: Mottled white, cream, pink, with black/grey specks
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified May 23, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Mottled white, cream, pink, with black/grey specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals); Specific gravity: ~2.65-2.75.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic). It is found in continental crust and often dates back hundreds of millions to billions of years.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction (countertops, tiles), monuments, paving stones, and as crushed stone for road base.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large part of the Earth's continental crust. Famous peaks like Half Dome in Yosemite are composed entirely of granite. The red stone in the ring and the purple amethyst in the background are also mineral specimens.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and large, easily visible crystals (quartz, feldspar, and mica). Found in mountain ranges and shield regions 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

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral