igneous
Coarse-grained granite
Granitic plutonic rock; chiefly quartz, alkali feldspar, plagioclase, biotite/hornblende
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; pink, white, gray, and black grains with a granular texture and vitreous to pearly luster. Crystals are interlocking and generally lack cleavage as a rock, though feldspar and mica show cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; pink, white, gray, and black grains with a granular texture and vitreous to pearly luster. Crystals are interlocking and generally lack cleavage as a rock, though feldspar and mica show cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich magma cooled slowly deep within Earth, producing large crystals; individual samples may range from Precambrian to Mesozoic or younger depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, paving, aggregate, and architectural cladding; attractive polished pieces are collected but usually have modest value.
Geological facts
The pink grains are commonly potassium feldspar, translucent grains are quartz, and dark flakes or crystals are biotite and/or hornblende. The specimen may also be a closely related granodiorite if plagioclase dominates.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by visible interlocking quartz, feldspar, and dark mica/amphibole grains, high hardness, and lack of layering or foliation; common worldwide in continental mountain belts and granite plutons.
