igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, grey with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75
- Hardness
- 6 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, grey with dark speckles
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, grey with dark speckles; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals); Specific gravity: 2.65 to 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over millions of years, typically found in continental crusts.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, monuments, countertops, and paving stones.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock in the Earth's continental crust and forms the core of many major mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its interlocking, visible grains of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in shield areas and mountainous regions.
