igneous
Granite
Granite (Felsic Plutonic Rock)
Hardness 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Coarse-grained (phaneritic) texture with visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and dark biotite or amphibole minerals. Dull to vitreous luster. Color ranges from light gray to white with dark speckled inclusions.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-7 on the Mohs scale. Coarse-grained (phaneritic) texture with visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and dark biotite or amphibole minerals. Dull to vitreous luster. Color ranges from light gray to white with dark speckled inclusions.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow cooling and crystallization of felsic magma deep beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous process) over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction, dimension stone, kitchen countertops, paving blocks, monuments, and crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up much of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved directly into a granite batholith in South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its hard, interlocking crystalline texture composed of light-colored feldspar and translucent quartz interspersed with dark mineral grains. Found worldwide in continental shield regions and mountain ranges.
