Igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock, consisting primarily of Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs Scale; Color: Salt and pepper appearance (grey, white, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained intrusive crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs Scale
- Color
- Salt and pepper appearance (grey, white, pink, black)
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs Scale; Color: Salt and pepper appearance (grey, white, pink, black); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained intrusive crystals); Specific Gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (plutonic). Can range in age from the Precambrian era to the Cenozoic, found globally in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction (curb stones, pavers, building facades), interior design (countertops, tiles), and as dimension stone for monuments and memorials.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large part of the Earth's continental crust; Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith. It is one of the hardest natural stones commonly used by humans.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its interlocking visible crystals including clear/grey quartz and opaque white/pink feldspar. Commonly found in mountain ranges and ancient shields. Collectors look for 'Pegmatite' variations with oversized crystals.
