igneous
Granite
Granite (composed mainly of Quartz, Potassium Feldspar, Plagioclase, and Biotite/Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan with dark specks and clear translucent quartz veins/grains. Luster: Vitreous to dull (weathered). Texture: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained interlocked crystals).
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull (weathered)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pinkish-tan with dark specks and clear translucent quartz veins/grains. Luster: Vitreous to dull (weathered). Texture: Phaneritic (medium to coarse-grained interlocked crystals).
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow, deep underground cooling and crystallization of silica-rich felsic magma beneath the Earth's crust over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used as a dimension stone in construction, kitchen countertops, monuments, paving stones, crushed stone aggregate, and as a educational rock specimen.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. The pink color in this specimen comes from orthoclase alkali feldspar, while the grey clear areas are quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its visible, interlocking mineral grains of quartz, pink feldspar, and dark mica. Commonly found in continental mountain ranges and glacial till deposits. Collectors look for unique veinings or large mineral inclusions.
