igneous
Granite
Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, gray, white, or black speckled. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Granular, phaneritic texture with visible interlocking mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, gray, white, or black speckled
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink, gray, white, or black speckled. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Crystal structure: Granular, phaneritic texture with visible interlocking mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Specific gravity: 2.65-2.75.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of silica-rich magma deep beneath the Earth's surface. Geological age varies widely, from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, monument building, countertops, tiles, and decorative stone.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common intrusive rock on Earth's continental crust and is a major component of mountain ranges.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive speckled appearance and interlocking crystalline grains. Found worldwide in continental shields and intrusive plutons.
