igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (Felsic)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, pinkish-orange, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Gray, pinkish-orange, and black
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Gray, pinkish-orange, and black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible crystals); Cleavage: None (fractures irregularly).
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. These rocks are often millions of years old, associated with continental crust formation and orogenic (mountain-building) events.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as aggregate for roads.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith. It is one of the hardest natural stones available.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for a coarse-grained texture where individual mineral grains (quartz, feldspar, mica) are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in mountainous regions or glacial deposits.
