igneous

Granite

Phaneritic Igneous Rock (Granitic)

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink/orange (Potassium Feldspar), White/grey (Quartz), Black (Biotite/Mica); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained coarse crystalline); No cleavage in bulk rock.

Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 29, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow cooling of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). The specified specimen's minerals formed millions of years ago through intrusive crystallization.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, and monuments. Polished specimens are often used for decorative purposes or as landscaping stones.

Geological facts

Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith. It is one of the hardest and most durable common stones on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance with visible crystals of different colors. It is commonly found in mountainous regions or as water-worn pebbles in riverbeds. For collectors, look for high potassium feldspar content which gives it a unique pink or salmon hue.

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