igneous
Granite
Phaneritic Felsic Igneous Rock
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Dependent on individual mineral components; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pink, white, gray, and black speckles
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, white, gray, and black speckles; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Cleavage: Dependent on individual mineral components; Specific gravity: 2.63 - 2.75
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (intrusive). The cooling process can take millions of years, leading to large, visible crystals. It can be found in continental crust of all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction (countertops, floor tiles, paving stones), dimension stone for monuments/statues, and as crushed stone for road base or railway ballast.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Famous peaks like Yosemite's El Capitan and Mount Rushmore are carved into granite batholiths.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is found in mountain ranges and ancient continental shields. For collectors, look for specimens with unusually large crystals (pegmatites) or rare accessory minerals.
