igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Speckled white, grey, pink, and black. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Speckled white, grey, pink, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Speckled white, grey, pink, and black. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) with visible crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (plutonic). Typically found in continental crust and mountain ranges, dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking granular texture and presence of quartz (translucent) and feldspar (opaque white/pink). Found in many mountainous regions and quarries worldwide.
