igneous
Granite
Granite
Hardness: 6 to 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, and black (mottled); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6 to 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, orange, and black (mottled)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6 to 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, and black (mottled); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma deep within the Earth's crust (plutonic). Found in continental crust and mountain ranges globally.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and as dimension stone for monuments and memorials.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of the continental crust. The pink color in this specimen comes from potassium feldspar (orthoclase), while the dark bits are likely biotite mica or hornblende.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking granular texture where individual mineral grains (quartz, feldspar, mica) are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in riverbeds and glacial deposits as rounded cobbles.
