igneous
Granite (Dioritic variant)
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock (primarily Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white/grey with black specks); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Clearing: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Salt and pepper (white/grey with black specks)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Salt and pepper (white/grey with black specks); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained visible crystals); Clearing: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). Found in continental crust ranging from Precambrian to Cenozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, and monuments due to its durability and resistance to weathering.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Famous natural formations like Yosemite's Half Dome and Mount Rushmore are composed of granite. It is one of the hardest natural stones on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking 'salt and pepper' crystalline texture where minerals are large enough to see with the naked eye. Commonly found in mountain ranges and batholiths worldwide. Collectors look for unique mineral banding or inclusions.
