igneous

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic Igneous Rock)

Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (gray, white, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Coarse-grained phaneritic; Cleavage: Improper (breaks unevenly); Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75

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

Identified March 4, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granite dates from the Precambrian or Paleozoic eras, though it forms in any era where continental crust thickens.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for curbing (as seen in the image), countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments due to its durability.

Geological facts

Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith. It is the most common plutonic rock found in the crust.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance with visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (shiny black flakes). Commonly found in mountain ranges and ancient shield areas.

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