igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper appearance with white, gray, pink, and black specks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper appearance with white, gray, pink, and black specks. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible interlocking crystals). Specific gravity: 2.65 - 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface over thousands to millions of years. Commonly found in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural building facades, countertops, monuments, and paving stones.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is exceptionally durable against weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled, coarse-grained interlocking mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Found globally in major mountain ranges and shield areas.
