igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock (composed primarily of Quartz, Alkali Feldspar, and Plagioclase)
Mohs hardness of 6-7, salt-and-pepper or reddish-gray speckled appearance, phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture, vitreous-to-pearly luster, specific gravity 2.63-2.75
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6-7, salt-and-pepper or reddish-gray speckled appearance, phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture, vitreous-to-pearly luster, specific gravity 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed by the slow crystallization of silica-rich magma deep underground (plutonic) over millions of years; common in continental crust dating back to the Precambrian era
Uses & applications
Widely used for dimension stone, countertops, paving, monuments, and as crushed aggregate in construction
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of Earth's continental crust. Its pinkish hue often comes from potassium feldspar (orthoclase). It is one of the hardest and most durable common stones on Earth
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its visible interlocking crystals of different colors; commonly found in mountain ranges and glacial till across central and northern North America
