igneous
Granite (probable)
Coarse-grained felsic plutonic rock composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectLight gray-white, speckled black and pink, with a granular texture and dull to slightly glassy luster; typical Mohs hardness is about 6–7. Individual crystals are interlocking and lack cleavage as a whole, though feldspar and mica show cleavage.
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Physical properties
Light gray-white, speckled black and pink, with a granular texture and dull to slightly glassy luster; typical Mohs hardness is about 6–7. Individual crystals are interlocking and lack cleavage as a whole, though feldspar and mica show cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Granite crystallizes slowly from silica-rich magma deep in continental crust, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic intrusive events. The specimen may also be weathered granitic rock or a closely related granodiorite.
Uses & applications
Widely used as dimension stone, countertops, monuments, aggregate, and paving; attractive polished pieces are collected but generally have little gem value.
Geological facts
Quartz typically appears gray or translucent, feldspar white/pink, and biotite or hornblende black. The visible coarse crystals indicate slow underground cooling rather than volcanic eruption.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its coarse interlocking grains and quartz-feldspar-mica color pattern; a streak test is usually white, and it does not fizz with dilute hydrochloric acid. Common worldwide in continental shields and mountain batholiths.
