igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically colored gray, pink, or white with a speckled appearance due to interlocking mineral crystals. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with biotite mica and amphibole.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically colored gray, pink, or white with a speckled appearance due to interlocking mineral crystals. Composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase, with biotite mica and amphibole.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface, typically occurring in continental crust over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, monuments, curbing, and various polished dimension stone products.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its visible interlocking crystals (salt-and-pepper appearance) and high hardness. Found globally in major mountain ranges and shields.
