igneous
Pink Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Acid Igneous Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-orange with black and white specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar, Plagioclase, and Biotite mica.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, reddish-orange with black and white specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, reddish-orange with black and white specks; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Composition: Quartz, Potassium Feldspar, Plagioclase, and Biotite mica.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive). This allows large crystals to grow. Common across all geological eras, particularly in continental crustal shields.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
The pink color is specifically due to an abundance of potassium feldspar (orthoclase). Granite makes up much of the continental crust and is the signature rock of planet Earth, as it is not found significantly on other planets.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture and the presence of visible pink feldspar and clear/grey quartz grains. It will not be scratched by a steel knife. Found globally in mountainous regions and continental shields like the Canadian Shield.
