Igneous
Granite (Weathered)
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled gray, black, and tan/buff from iron oxidation weathering; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Mottled gray, black, and tan/buff from iron oxidation weathering; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) crystalline; Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (plutonic). This specimen shows signs of surface weathering over thousands of years.
Uses & applications
Primary use in construction as dimension stone, countertops, curbing, and aggregate. Also used in tombstone manufacturing and rock climbing faces.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is primarily composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. The tan/orange tint on this specific stone is likely Limonite or Goethite staining from the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals. It is found globally in batholiths and mountain ranges. It will not react to acid and is hard enough to scratch glass.
