igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar-Mica Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, light gray, white, or salt-and-pepper; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, light gray, white, or salt-and-pepper
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, light gray, white, or salt-and-pepper; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.63 to 2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth's surface (intrusive). Most granites date from the Precambrian eon to the Cenozoic era, forming in continental crust above subduction zones.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, and monuments. Also used as crushed stone for road base and railroad ballast.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, which is why it has been used since ancient Egypt for building obelisks and pyramids.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its coarse-grained texture where individual crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (black/shiny) are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
