igneous
Granite with Epidote / Unakite precursor
Plutonic igneous rock composed of Quartz, Feldspar, and Epidote/Chlorite
Mohs hardness of 6 to 7. Off-white to pinkish matrix of quartz and feldspar mottled with dark green patches of epidote or chlorite. Vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6 to 7. Off-white to pinkish matrix of quartz and feldspar mottled with dark green patches of epidote or chlorite. Vitreous to dull luster, phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed deep underground through the slow cooling and crystallization of magma. The green mineral (epidote) often develops through hydrothermal alteration of plagioclase feldspar in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Commonly used as crushed stone, aggregate, dimension stone in construction, or for tumbling and lapidary practice when epidote content is high (similar to unakite).
Geological facts
Granite forms a major part of Earth's continental crust. When granite undergoes hydrothermal metamorphism, the plagioclase converts to green epidote, forming a rock type known as unakite.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its coarse-grained interlocking texture with visible white/clear quartz and dark green inclusions. Widely found in continental shield regions and mountain belts worldwide.
