igneous
Granite featuring Quartz Vein
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (Quartz, Orthoclase Feldspar, Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink/salmon (alkali feldspar) and white/clear (quartz); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals) with a massive quartz intrusion; Cleavage: Feldspar shows two directions at 90 degrees, Quartz has none.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink/salmon (alkali feldspar) and white/clear (quartz)
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink/salmon (alkali feldspar) and white/clear (quartz); Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals) with a massive quartz intrusion; Cleavage: Feldspar shows two directions at 90 degrees, Quartz has none.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep within the Earth's crust (plutonic). The quartz vein likely formed from late-stage hydrothermal fluids filling fractures in the cooling granite body.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, and grave markers due to its durability. High-quality specimens are used for architectural facades and as decorative landscaping stones.
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color in this specimen is specifically caused by Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase). It is one of the hardest and most durable common rocks found on the planet.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' or multi-colored crystal texture and high hardness (it will scratch glass). Common in mountain ranges and glacial till across North America and Europe.
