igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Intrusive Igneous Rock (Granite)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: 'Salt and pepper' (gray, white, and black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible coarse grains); Cleavage: Distinct in feldspar grains; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Color: 'Salt and pepper' (gray, white, and black)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 18, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Can form in large masses called batholiths. Ages range from billions of years (Precambrian) to relatively recent mountain-building events.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. Highly valued for durability and resistance to weathering.

Geological facts

Granite makes up the bulk of the Earth's continental crust. Famous landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Yosemite's El Capitan are carved from massive granite formations.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica or hornblende (black). It is commonly found in mountain ranges and eroded continental shields. Scratching with a steel knife should not leave a deep groove since it is harder than steel.

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