igneous
Granite Boulder
Felsic Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, predominantly pinkish-grey to tan in color due to potassium feldspar and quartz, dull to sub-vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure with visible interlocking mineral grains, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, predominantly pinkish-grey to tan in color due to potassium feldspar and quartz, dull to sub-vitreous luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystal structure with visible interlocking mineral grains, specific gravity around 2.65 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and crystallization of magma rich in silica and alkali metals far beneath the Earth's surface, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, monuments, countertops, paving stones, and as landscape boulders.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a major part of continental crusts and is one of the toughest natural building materials known to humanity, capable of withstanding severe weathering.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the distinct visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and micas (such as biotite). Common worldwide in continental shields and mountain roots.
