igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Gray, salt-and-pepper, white; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Gray, salt-and-pepper, white
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Gray, salt-and-pepper, white; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (visible interlocking crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow subterranean cooling of silicic magma. These plutonic rocks often date back hundreds of millions to billions of years, cooling deep within the Earth's crust before being uplifted and exposed by erosion.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and as aggregate. It is also a popular material for monuments and outdoor sculptures due to its durability.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the continental crust. The name comes from the Latin 'granum', meaning a grain, in reference to its coarse-grained structure. It is one of the hardest and most resistant rocks available naturally.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for visible crystals of quartz (glassy gray), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (black flecks). It is found globally in mountain ranges and continental shields. Collectors should look for large crystal size or unusual mineral inclusions.
