igneous
Granite
Phaneritic plutonic rock (SiO2 + Al2O3 + K2O + Na2O + CaO)
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper look with pink, white, gray, and black. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (large, visible crystals). Cleavage: Varies by constituent mineral.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Salt-and-pepper look with pink, white, gray, and black
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Salt-and-pepper look with pink, white, gray, and black. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal structure: Phaneritic (large, visible crystals). Cleavage: Varies by constituent mineral.
Formation & geological history
Forms from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. Primarily found in continental crust and mountain ranges, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base. Long-lasting and resistant to weathering.
Geological facts
Granite makes up the majority of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Recognized by visible interlocking crystals of quartz (glassy), feldspar (opaque white/pink), and mica (shiny black/silver flakes). Found globally in continental shields and mountain belts.
