igneous
Granite
Coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock, chiefly quartz, feldspar, and mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectVisible interlocking grains with a pale pink-white and gray groundmass and dark mica flecks; likely hardness 6–7 Mohs, vitreous quartz, and no preferred cleavage at the whole-rock scale.
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Physical properties
Visible interlocking grains with a pale pink-white and gray groundmass and dark mica flecks; likely hardness 6–7 Mohs, vitreous quartz, and no preferred cleavage at the whole-rock scale.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich magma cooled slowly underground, allowing large crystals to grow; granite bodies occur across many geological ages, commonly in continental crust.
Uses & applications
Used as dimension stone, countertops, paving, monuments, and aggregate; this small rough specimen is mainly suitable for collecting.
Geological facts
The coarse crystals are characteristic of slow cooling at depth; the dark grains are likely biotite or another dark mineral.
Field identification & locations
Common in continental mountain belts and exposed cratons. Identify by its coarse, speckled mix of light quartz/feldspar and dark minerals; value depends on size, appearance, and provenance.
