igneous
Pink Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Rich in K-Feldspar)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-orange, grey, and black mottled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica; Cleavage: None (fractures); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, reddish-orange, grey, and black mottled
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, reddish-orange, grey, and black mottled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica; Cleavage: None (fractures); Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep underground (intrusive). The pink color is caused by an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Granites are found in continental crust across all geological ages, notably in mountain roots.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and as decorative landscaping stones or river rocks.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock found at Earth's surface. The specific specimen shown features a small quartz vein cutting through the matrix, indicating a secondary hydrothermal event where mineral-rich water filled a fracture.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' or mottled appearance and large interlocking crystals. It is much harder than steel and cannot be scratched by a knife. Commonly found in glaciated riverbeds or mountain ranges.
