igneous
Granite
Felsic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, white, and gray speckled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pink, white, and gray speckled
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pink, white, and gray speckled; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained) containing quartz, feldspar, and mica; Specific gravity: 2.63-2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface. These plutonic rocks can range in age from the Precambrian to recent periods, typically found in continental crust and mountain belts.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stone, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base. Popular in the lapidary arts for decorative spheres and bookends.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common rock found on Earth's continental crust. It is incredibly durable and because of its density it can withstand significant weathering over thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its crystalline texture where individual minerals (pink feldspar, clear quartz, dark mica) are visible to the naked eye. Commonly found in mountain ranges and glacial deposits.
