igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (Quartz, Feldspar, Mica)
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, grey, or reddish with dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Massive, phaneritic (visible crystals).
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, grey, or reddish with dark specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, grey, or reddish with dark specks; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Structure: Massive, phaneritic (visible crystals).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Found in continental crust around the world; age ranges from Archean to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, countertops, monuments, paving stones, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite is the primary component of the Earth's continental crust. It is one of the hardest and most durable natural stones, making it a favorite for architectural monuments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its interlocking crystal texture and salt-and-pepper appearance. Commonly found in mountainous regions or glacial deposits.
