igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, white, gray, or reddish with dark mineral specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly). Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, gray, or reddish with dark mineral specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, white, gray, or reddish with dark mineral specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained, visible crystals). Cleavage: None (fractures unevenly). Specific Gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling and solidification of magma rich in silica and alkali metals deep beneath the Earth's surface, typically over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction, architecture, monuments, countertops, and decorative landscaping.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock of the Earth's continental crust and is frequently used in monumental architecture due to its immense durability and resistance to weathering.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its speckled appearance, consisting primarily of pink or white feldspar, translucent quartz, and dark biotite mica or amphibole. Found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges.
